With one in five divorcees continued living together, is moving out essential after divorce?

Research carried out by law firm Slater and Gordon, has found that one in five divorcees, never moved out of their family home following the end of their marriage.

Against the backdrop of the cost-of-living crisis, rising mortgage payments and childcare costs, many separating couples are rethinking how and when they take the next step.

Among respondents who did eventually move out, the average reported waiting time was seven months, with older adults often staying for longer. Those aged over 55 on average took 10 months to move out, and were most likely group to not move out at 29%.

By contrast, only 24% of respondents were able to move out within the first month of separation, highlighting how difficult it can be to act quickly when finances, property and children are involved.

The research highlights clear emotional pressures that can prevent many from not only moving out, but also starting the divorce process.

Out of the respondents who haven’t initiated divorce proceedings, 52% said they were prioritising their children, minimising disruption to family life and 45% said they delayed the decision to avoid upsetting their children.

Financial strain also plays a significant role. 35% of respondents, say the cost-of-living crisis is a barrier to separating or moving out, and 21% of divorced respondents reported that they or their partner could not afford the divorce.

For many, shared finances and property remain key barriers. 26% said they lacked sufficient savings to begin the divorce process or move out, and one in four cited joint property ownership as a major obstacle to separating.

In fact, 21% of participants said financial issues were the primary reason their marriage ended. Following divorce, however, nearly one in three said they were eventually able to achieve the financial independence they had hoped for.

While living together after separation can make practical sense, the research highlights the emotional cost it can come with. Among those who wished they had divorced earlier, 43% said the delay increased their stress and anxiety, 35% said it led to more arguments, and nearly one in three said it made their divorce more toxic overall.

Despite these challenges, the findings also offer reassurance. Once the legal process was complete, 79% of respondents said a weight had been lifted, and 76% reported feeling much happier after their divorce was finalised.

As Jenniffer Brunt, head of family law at Slatter and Gordon, highlights, “There is no single right way to approach separation or divorce. Every couple has different circumstances, pressures and priorities, and it’s important to recognise that what works for one family may not work for another.

“For some couples, continuing to live together for a period is a practical way to manage finances or support children, particularly where the separation is amicable. For others, living apart sooner can be essential for emotional wellbeing.

“A family solicitor can provide personalised advice that takes into account children, finances and future plans. While the process can feel overwhelming at the start, many people find that life does become easier once separation is resolved.”