Why Do Couples Live Together?

Couples live together because it brings them personal happiness.

Sociologists use the term "cohabitation" to describe two people in a romantic relationship living together. While some people believe marriage is necessary, for religious or moral reasons, living together has potential advantages.

Marriage

Some couples want to try living together to see how they get on together before committing to marriage. Other times, they simply don't have the option to get married. For example, same-sex couples have marriage rights only in a handful of American states, and at one time interracial marriage was socially forbidden.

Practicalities

Living together makes economic sense, as a couple can share the costs of utility bills and other expenses between them. In the lead-up to an expensive wedding, cohabitation could mean big savings. In some cases, marriage can affect taxation and social security benefits, so couples choose to live together rather than marry.

Emotions

At root, many couples live together because they love each other and enjoy spending their lives close to each other. According to social scientists David Knox and Caroline Schacht, in the book "Choices in Relationships," couples who live together are more likely to report a sense of emotional well-being than single people or non-cohabiting couples.

References

• Alternatives to Marriage: Cohabitation F.A.Q.
• "Choices in Relationships: An Introduction to Marriage and the Family"; David Knox, Caroline Schacht; 2009