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A Brief Report Comparing Younger and Older Cohabitors
Matthew R Wright1, Susan L Brown2, Wendy D Manning3
1Department of Sociology, 204D Chapell Wilson Hall, Appalachian State University, Boone, NC 28608.
Journal of Marriage and the Family
|August 26, 2025
Summary
Older adults cohabiting experience higher relationship quality and stability. Unlike younger individuals, older cohabitors are less likely to plan marriage or use cohabitation for marital testing.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Gerontology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Cohabitation has significantly increased among older adults, contrasting with trends in younger populations.
- Previous research indicated age-related differences in cohabiting relationships, but current patterns require updated investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age variations in relationship quality, stability, marriage intentions, and cohabitation motivations among U.S. cohabiting adults.
- To determine if established age-related patterns in cohabitation persist in contemporary society.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the 2013 Families and Relationships Survey, a nationally representative sample.
- Analyzed cohabiting adults aged 18-65 using multivariable models.
- Examined age group differences in relationship quality, stability, marriage plans, and cohabitation reasons, controlling for demographic and economic factors.
Main Results:
- Relationship quality and stability were positively associated with age among cohabitors.
- Older cohabitors demonstrated the lowest likelihood of planning marriage.
- Older cohabitors were least inclined to cite testing marital compatibility as a reason for cohabitation.
Conclusions:
- Cohabitation serves distinct functions across the adult lifespan.
- For younger adults, cohabitation often precedes marriage or serves as an alternative to singlehood.
- For older adults, cohabitation may function as an alternative to marriage.
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