The percentage of adults in the U.S. living without a partner or spouse has increased in the past 10 years, according to the Pew Research Center. In 2017, the share is 42%, up from 39% in 2007, when the Census Bureau began measuring detailed data on cohabitation. This trend was especially pronounced in young adults age 35 and under, growing from 56% to 61%. Adults 65 and older was the only age group that saw an increase in partners living together. 

According to Pew, the share of married adults overall has decreased, and while the share of adults living with a romantic partner has increased, it is not large enough to offset the overall decline in cohabitation. As families continue to change and evolve, this is a notable trend with implications in how family members — now and in the future — interact with, care for, and support one another.

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