Cohabitation

A relationship in which a couple are living together, but are not married to each other. Cohabitation is a common pattern in the Western world, especially those who want to prepare for what married life will be like before actually getting married, or who desire marriage but whose financial situation temporarily precludes it. Other reasons for cohabiting include those who see little difference between the commitment to live together and the commitment to marriage.

Although generally not enforced, cohabitation is still considered illegal in 6 states in the United States: Florida, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, North Dakota and Virginia.