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We asked couples who moved in together in their 20s what they were thinking
‘It’s intense’
Usually moving in with your significant other means compromise, but it’s the next logical step in progressing your relationship, right? If you’re happy, then why not? In fact, it was recently proven that divorce rates have fallen to their lowest level for 40 years amid signs that the growing acceptance of couples living together before getting married has ultimately strengthened marriage.
But for most of us, it still seems mental. We found some couples who had taken the plunge way earlier than expected, to ask them what it’s like living with the person you’re going out with and seeing them literally all the time.
Courtney, 20, Student at UEA and Oliver, 19, Assisting Design Engineer
“We’ve been together for nine months”, says Courtney. “We met through mutual friends at a club. We were with each other for five months before moving in together. Friends and family are really supportive, and it’s not claustrophobic, but we do spend the majority of our time together. We don’t feel like we’re missing out either, as it’s a very relaxed living situation – it’s like living with your best mate.”
Sophie, 20, English Literature and Music and Jack, 20, Computer Science – Oxford Brookes
“We’ve been together for two years. We both started at the same university, and we were put into the same halls but in opposite flats. We met on the day that we moved in and became official during the first semester.
“Friends and family are very supportive, and we often visit each others family for social events. We get on really well with one another. In term time and around deadlines, it can be little stressful, but as we have separate rooms we have the option to have our own space when it’s needed.”
“We spend most of our time together in the mornings and evenings but during most days we do our own things, such as going to work or socialising with friends. I think if you feel as though you’re missing out on the uni experience then a relationship clearly isn’t for you, which is why it’s important to make sure you have a good balance.
“One of the best things about living together is that we occasionally cook dinner for each other, which is nice after a stressful day. Living together means you get the support you need when you need it most.”
Lauren, 21, Freelance Writer and English Teacher and Jorge, 23, 3D Video Game Animator
“Our favourite thing about living together was the money we saved and the fact that we didn’t have to constantly get taxis back and forth between my old place and his anymore. It was very intense though and sometimes a bit too much because neither of us was working loads at the time and we spent a lot of time in the house. Having said that, it was also easier than anticipated and I loved it.
Catherine, 21, Occupational Therapy and Henry, 19, Animal Biology and Conversation – Oxford Brookes
“It’s not claustrophobic because we still have separate rooms – thank god, otherwise I wouldn’t cope. Because we live with other people I don’t feel like I’m missing out, I always planned on living with friends before moving in with a boyfriend so I’m just doing both at the same time.
“Our favourite thing about living together is getting to cook together, and it’s really handy because Henry cooks lovely food and I wash up.”
Lauren, 20, English Language and Communication and Nick, 21, Maths – Oxford Brookes
“We’ve been together almost two years, and we met at uni. We were put in the same halls, and I had a boyfriend at the time but when I met Nick, that was it. We decided to live together in second and third year too. We hope to move in together after uni as well.