As your Trusted real estate partner in Saskatoon, I am committed to finding the perfect place to call home. I am passionate about real estate and aim to exceed your expectations. In my latest article,I share information on Inflationships and how rising costs are speeding up Canadians in relationships to consider living together.
Love or Financial Survival…Maybe Both?
In an era where rent is sky-high, and inflation squeezes every dollar, young couples are fast-tracking a major relationship milestone: moving in together. What once took years of dating and careful consideration is now happening much sooner—not just for love but survival. This new trend, dubbed “inflationships,” is reshaping modern romance as financial realities force couples to cohabitate earlier than they might have planned.
The Economics of Love: Why Couples Are Living Together Sooner
Traditionally, moving in together was seen as a significant step in a relationship, often signalling a deep emotional commitment. But in today’s economy, love isn’t the only reason couples are shacking up—it’s also about financial necessity. Here’s why:
Rising Rent and Housing Costs
- Rental prices have skyrocketed, especially in major cities. In some places, a one-bedroom apartment can cost over $2,000 per month, making splitting rent with a partner an attractive financial move.
- Many young adults are realizing that combining incomes can help them afford better housing or at least reduce their individual financial burden.
Inflation is Eating Up Paychecks
- Taxes, Taxes, Taxes…they already take almost half before we even start.
- Food, transportation, and utility costs have all increased dramatically.
- Living together means splitting grocery bills and sharing streaming subscriptions, and it also may help in cutting commuting costs.
Remote Work and Flexible Living Arrangements
- More people working from home means they already spend most of their time together.
- Some couples who might have waited realize it makes sense to live together if they’re splitting time between two apartments anyway.
The Relationship Impact: Love on Fast Forward
While inflationships offer financial relief, they also present emotional challenges. Depending on the couple, moving in together faster than planned can be a blessing—or a disaster.
The Pros:
✔️ Financial Savings – Cutting housing and living expenses significantly eases financial stress.
✔️ More Quality Time – Couples get to spend more time together, strengthening their bond.
✔️ A Test Run for the Future – Early cohabitation can reveal long-term compatibility sooner.
The Cons:
❌ Skipping Relationship Stages – Some couples may move in before they’re truly ready, leading to conflicts.
❌ Financial Entanglement Risks – Breaking up becomes more complicated when money and leases are involved.
❌ Loss of Individual Space – The adjustment period can be challenging if personal boundaries aren’t maintained.
How to Make an Inflationship Work
If you and your partner are considering moving in together for financial reasons, here are some key ways to ensure a smooth transition:
Have a Money Talk First
Be transparent about income, expenses, and financial expectations. Decide how you’ll split rent, bills, and groceries upfront.
Set Relationship Boundaries
Just because you’re moving in together doesn’t mean you should rush into other major commitments. Ensure you’re on the same page about what this step means for your future.
Plan for an Exit Strategy
|No one likes to think about breaking up, but having a plan in case things don’t work out (like whose name is on the lease) is wise. Also, there may be legal issues depending on individual provinces and circumstances. Always consult your legal, accounting, and real estate professionals when making major life decisions.
Final Thoughts: A Love Story or a Survival Tactic?
Inflationships are becoming the new normal for many young couples navigating today’s economic pressures. While some thrive under these circumstances, others may struggle with cohabitation’s emotional and financial challenges. Whether moving in together is a smart financial decision or a risky relationship shortcut depends on the couple’s level of commitment, communication, readiness and compromise.
Buying, selling, or renting…What do you think? Have you or someone you know moved in with a partner due to financial pressures? Please let me know your thoughts.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, Laddie James is the REALTOR® you can trust! Contact Laddie to chat about your real estate needs today.
