Couples who cohabit due to convenience are typically:

Couples who cohabit primarily for convenience may face unique challenges that can impact their relationship satisfaction and longevity. Cohabitation for convenience often lacks the commitment and intentionality that can characterize relationships where individuals choose to cohabit for deeper emotional or practical reasons, such as wanting to build a life together or preparing for marriage.

Research in developmental psychology tends to suggest that relationships built on a foundation of convenience rather than mutual commitment can lead to lower satisfaction levels over time. This is because partners may not have fully engaged in intentional conversations about their goals, values, and future aspirations, which are critical for supporting a strong, happy marriage.

In contrast to those who cohabit out of a desire for connection or commitment, individuals in convenience-based arrangements might find themselves less invested in nurturing the relationship, leading to recurrence of conflicts, dissatisfaction, and overall unhappiness. This context helps illuminate why those who cohabit for reasons other than a deep relational commitment may experience a decreased likelihood of having a happy marriage.