58%
More than half of people (58%) say they’ve experienced or nearly experienced a relationship breakdown after moving in together.
The impact moving in together has on relationships
We surveyed the nation to get a clear picture of how the big move is impacting and improving relationships across the country, and these were the top findings:
Key Findings
1 in 3
1 in 3 (33%) say cohabiting is essential for a successful relationship
51%
More than half (51%) of household arguments stem from cleaning
40%
40% of the nation think that couples are moving in too quickly
44%
Communication and emotional disconnect are the main causes of relationship breakdown (44%)
What are the top causes of arguments after moving in together?
1 in 3 say cohabiting is an essential step towards a successful relationship, but whilst moving in together is sometimes romanticised as a natural next chapter, the reality for some can come when the boxes are unpacked.According to our new research, the biggest cause of household tension isn't money, long-term compatibility, or even personal space; it's actually cleaning.
Over half (51%) of participants said that cleanliness and household habits, from toilet etiquette, not cleaning kitchen appliances, to uneven chore distribution, are the biggest triggers for household arguments.
At first glance, it feels odd that the main source of arguments comes from dishes and cleaning standards, and not life's bigger curveballs. In fact, money and responsibilities (50%), space and environment (19%), and daily routines (33%) all ranked lower.
However, it is thought that these acts are a daily symbol for much deeper signs in a relationship, such as respect, fairness, and consideration for the other person, some of the best things about living with a partner.
What is causing relationship breakdowns after moving in?
Moving in together is possibly one of the most exciting relationship milestones, but for many, it can also bring its challenges.
Our research found that over half (58%) of the UK have experienced a near/complete relationship breakdown after moving in together, with communication and emotional disconnect named as the leading cause (44%). Meanwhile, 42% also shared that lifestyle and compatibility differences were the main reason, with the majority of regrets happening after 4-6 months (15%).
Interestingly, 40% do agree that couples nowadays are making the move too soon, raising the question of when is too soon, and what things should you be considering before you leap into sharing a home?
Companionship and quality time are the best things about cohabiting, according to the UK
Whilst disagreements over overflowing bins and unwashed dishes can sometimes dominate day-to-day life, the research reveals a bigger picture, and most couples are completely fulfilled by making their four walls into their own.
The biggest positives were not convenience or splitting responsibility; they were far deeper, with companionship and emotional connection (29%) and quality time and shared experiences (29%).
Interestingly, practical support, including help with cleaning, ranked far lower, with 91% of respondents saying it was not the best thing about living with a partner.
Ultimately, creating a home with someone means navigating the emotional highs and the everyday realities, and thankfully, if you do survive the kitchen sink debates, there's one major upside: the housewarming gifts!
The most desired housewarming gifts for new couples
So, while cleaning-related fallouts may be one of the biggest tests for new living partners, they certainly do not need to define it, and beyond the debates, there is a lot to celebrate.
To mark the milestone of moving in together, we wanted to find out which housewarming gifts people desire the most to make the transition a bit easier, and to help those shopping for a couple starting their new chapter together.
Air fryers were revealed as the most desired kitchen appliance for moving in gifts (14.4%), followed closely by coffee machines (14.3%) and smart home devices, including air purifiers (10.4%).
Microwaves, kettles, and steam mops were also among some of the most requested move-in items, showing many are trying to get ahead of the cleanliness debates before moving in.
Top tips for moving in together
- Set expectations around chores early - Since 51% of household arguments stem from cleaning, it’s important to have honest conversations before moving in. Use our downloadable chore decider to confirm exactly how they should split.
- Prioritise communication over perfection - The research found that communication and emotional disconnect are the leading causes of relationship breakdowns after moving in together. Make time for regular check-ins and separate date nights about how you’re both feeling, rather than letting frustrations over cleanliness, routines and responsibilities simmer beneath the surface.
- Don’t rush the move because it feels like the ‘next step’ - With 40% of people believing couples are moving in too quickly, it’s worth taking a step back to assess whether you feel genuinely ready. Tools such as the ‘Should we Move in Together Quiz’ can help couples to reflect on compatibility, lifestyle habits and expectations before committing to sharing a home.
Methodology
SharkNinja surveyed 2,000 UK residents aged 18+ in May 2026 with Censuswide to uncover the truth behind relationships, cohabiting, and move-in habits.