London - Half of couples moved in together because of their finances rather than their feelings, a study revealed.
They admit this meant they took the big step a lot sooner than planned.
Some start sharing a home just a month after starting to go out while one in 12 bought a property with their partner within six months.
Money is the driving force for many who said they could not afford to buy separately or wanted to save to purchase a home. The trend was most marked in those aged 25 to 34.
A quarter of couples felt compelled to live together, with some blaming peer pressure as their friends were already living with their partners.
The survey of 2 000 adults by price comparison site Confused.com said it typically took three years and four months for couples to buy together.
Gareth Lane, head of home insurance, said: “Practicality seems to be a driving force behind the decision.”
- Daily Mail