Cohabiting couples are over £1,200 better off each year

Research commissioned by first direct has found that cohabiting couples, those that are married or living together, are £102 better off each month than singletons.   The survey also found that the vast majority of the UK population (91%) haven't changed their relationship status in the last 12 months.  Just over two thirds (65%) said they were living together or married, a fifth (19%) were singletons and 8% were in a relationship, but had yet to take the plunge and move in together.
 
The results show that a person's relationship status has a real impact on their finances. The average monthly disposable income of those who are married or living together was £102 more than a singleton, £307 per person for cohabiters versus £256 amongst singletons, giving them £1,224 more each year to secure their financial future or to spend on the finer things in life.
 
Singletons said they are less likely to be able to treat themselves than those who are married or living together.  When asked if they could afford things like regular holidays, nights out, gym membership and a cleaner 34% of singletons said they were unable to afford any of the options, significantly higher than cohabiting couples (23%).
 
And when it comes to their financial future singletons are also worse off; only 37% felt able to add to their savings each month unlike 45% of cohabiters.  Those living together were also more able to afford mortgage payments (45% vs. 24%) and a mortgage deposit (19% vs. 14%).
 
Andy Forbes, Head of Retail Products at first direct commented: "Peoples' relationship status has a real impact on their finances and in turn their ability to save and afford the finer things in life.  I'm not advocating that people should move in together before they're ready, but for those already considering sharing a roof it definitely makes financial sense."