This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
You probably never thought of it this way
Most people get a 50% or bigger discount when they live with others.
Groceries, utilities, rent/mortgage, and every other shared expense is now cheaper, giving you a false sense of financial security and making it seem like you have it better than you actually do.
A good question to ask yourself to stay financially sober is:
Can I afford my current lifestyle without living with anyone?
If the answer is “no,” you might want to consider shifting your spending and investing habits.
It’s easy to spend when you have extra cash flow and lower expenses, but what ends up happening is you spend more than you’re earning, or you don’t have enough leftover each month to save anything because you’re in your happy-go-lucky spending mode.
If you continue living like this month after month, guess what happens?
You become a person who has to live with other people.
When you spend more than you earn, you create debt, which decreases your net worth.
You also increase your liabilities, which positions you as a financial risk.
The Danger Of Living With Others
Financial dependence is addictive. Dual-income (or more) households can be addictive.
The extra income provides you with more financial opportunities that a single average income doesn’t usually provide.
When you live with others, that addiction can translate into not leaving unhealthy or codependent situations because you don’t want to give up the financial benefits.
I know people today that are unable to leave their current living situations because they can’t afford to live on their own.
They are in unhappy and unstable situations; if they leave, they will be on the streets.
Living Independently With Your Partner Doesn’t Equate to Financial Success
You decide to move in with your partner because “it just makes sense.”
You’re feeling each other, and the savings would be tremendous, so why not?
But you must remember that just because your cash flow has increased because you live with your partner doesn’t mean you’re financially independent on your own.
Always sober yourself up quickly by running the numbers against your income. If you’re on track with your savings, spending less than you earn, and can afford your lifestyle without the help of a partner, you’re in a healthy position.
If you need your partner’s income to maintain your lifestyle, then you’re in trouble, and you should try to shift this dynamic as soon as possible.
Would You Be Able To Afford Your Lifestyle Without Your Partner?
I’m Not Saying Live By Yourself Your Entire Life
Most people desire to live with someone at some point – whether it’s family, friends, or significant others.
Here’s how you can avoid creating unhealthy financial situations:
Stay financially sober.
Never spend more than you earn.
Always prioritize investing over spending.
Never live a life you can’t afford to live on your income.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.