There was still a slightly increased risk of divorce among cohabitors, but Kuperberg says this is explained by other factors. For instance, research shows that people who cohabit are more likely to have less education, more likely to have previously lived with another partner, and less likely to have lived with both parents as a child—all characteristics that put them at a higher risk of divorce to begin with. "Cohabitation itself doesn't cause divorce," says Kuperberg. "But the types of people who cohabit may be more likely to divorce." When she controlled for these differences, the increased risk of divorce disappeared completely.
So don't worry, your bond isn't doomed if you decide to live together before you tie the knot. Just make sure you consider these six crucial things before you move in together, and watch out for these four signs he's not ready for marriage.