The Top Challenges of Moving in Together and How to Overcome Them

While deciding to live together with your partner is an exciting step in your relationship, there's no denying that there are challenges of moving in together that you will likely face. Even the most perfect pairing must face some growing pains. After all, cohabitating with someone means you will have to adjust your lifestyle to accommodate a person with a different background, perspective and set of needs.

"Moving in together is a huge milestone for a couple, but it's also one of the biggest stress tests a relationship can go through," shares Claudia Giolitti-Wright, MA, LMFT, founder and clinical director of Psychotherapy for Young Women. "While it often symbolizes commitment and deepening intimacy, it also brings a lot of unspoken expectations, habits and personal differences to the surface."

"The best way to navigate these challenges is through intentional communication, flexibility and a mindset of teamwork," she shares. "Moving in together isn't about finding the 'perfect' way to live; it's about creating a shared space that reflects both of your needs and values. The couples who thrive are the ones who see challenges not as signs of incompatibility, but as opportunities to grow together."

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Having anxiety about moving in with a partner, or just want to prepare yourself for the next phase of your relationship? Read ahead to learn about the top challenges couples face when moving in with a significant other and therapist-approved tips to move past them.

In this article:

• 4 Challenges of Moving In Together
• Working Through the Challenges of Moving in Together

4 Challenges of Moving In Together

Learn about how your relationship changes when you move in together and the four challenges that you and your partner will likely face.

Different Living Habits and Expectations

Put two people who have lived on their own, with family or with roommates into one house and there's likely going to be some discrepancies in how they live day to day. "One of the biggest challenges is differences in living habits and expectations," Giolitti-Wright shares. "Things like cleanliness, sleep schedules, organization, and even how much time you spend together at home can become sources of tension. Often, these differences aren't fully realized until a couple is sharing the same space 24/7. The impact can range from minor frustrations to feelings of resentment if one partner feels they're carrying an unfair share of household responsibilities."

Managing Financial Stress

"Another common issue is managing financial stress," Giolitti-Wright notes. "Money is one of the top sources of conflict in relationships, and moving in together brings a whole new layer to it. Differences in spending habits, earning potential and financial priorities can create tension, especially if one partner feels they are contributing more or if financial discussions aren't happening transparently."

Losing Personal Space

We all know couples that seem to do literally everything together. Even if they love each other and always want to spend time together, Giolitti-Wright notes there's the challenge of losing personal space and independence. "Many people romanticize the idea of living together, imagining constant closeness and connection," Giolitti-Wright says. "But the reality is that everyone needs space. Without it, partners can start to feel suffocated. A shift in independence—especially for those who have lived alone before—can bring unexpected emotional challenges."

Losing Breathing Room for Conflict Resolution

Getting into arguments is a natural part of a relationship. Yet, when you lack personal space, you might be unable to practice healthy communication habits. "Another unexpected challenge is conflict resolution changing once you live together," Giolitti-Wright explains. "When dating separately, it's easier to take space after an argument—someone can go home, cool off and gain perspective. When you live together, there's no easy escape, which can lead to conflicts escalating rather than resolving."

Working Through the Challenges of Moving in Together

Just because there are challenges of moving in together doesn't mean they have to spoil your rapport. Working through these conflicts can help strengthen your bond. See a few therapist-approved ways to amend them so you can celebrate living together.

Compromise on Living Habits

Whether one person likes to watch TV at late hours or another would like to avoid doing laundry at all costs, resolving these differences in living styles takes a conversation or two. "The best way to handle this is to communicate proactively—before moving in—about expectations," Giolitti-Wright shares. "Have an honest conversation about things like chores, alone time and shared financial responsibilities. And instead of expecting your partner to change, find compromises that work for both of you."

Discuss Financial Expectations

Navigating finances with a partner is a fine line that can easily lead to feelings of resentment. "To prevent this, couples should discuss their financial expectations early on," Giolitti-Wright advises. "Will you split expenses equally or based on income? What's the plan for unexpected costs? Having an open and judgment-free conversation about finances helps prevent misunderstandings down the road." A handy budget app also helps you and your partner keep track of expenses.

Maintain a Sense of Independence in Your Relationship

If you're nervous that you are going to become codependent with your partner or feel overwhelmed by their constant presence, it's best to remember that you are a person outside of the relationship as well. "The key here is to maintain individuality within the relationship," Giolitti-Wright notes. "Encourage each other to keep up with personal hobbies, friendships and routines. Living together doesn't mean you have to do everything together, and in fact, maintaining a sense of independence can make the relationship stronger."

Find Ways to Take Space

If you are in a situation where you have gotten into a fight and need to have a moment to yourself in order to resolve your conflict, you must find a unique way to do that when you share a home. "It's crucial to learn how to take healthy space while living under the same roof," Giolitti-Wright says. "Instead of storming out or shutting down, set a rule that allows both partners to take a break and come back to the conversation when emotions aren't running as high."