Rise Of Apartners: Couples Who Live Separately, Yet Stay Together

Who could have thought that lovers who love each other would choose not to live in each other's company, believing that staying apart might actually keep the excitement alive for longer? But in today’s world, many couples are embracing this very idea. One such modern approach to relationships is called Living Apart Together, or LAT , and the couples who choose this lifestyle often call themselves Apartners.

Who Are Apartners? Why Is This Trend Catching On?

Apartners are people who prefer to build and nurture their romantic relationships while living separately. They may be dating, engaged, or even married, but they choose not to share a common household. For them, personal space and freedom are just as important as emotional intimacy. 

Rather than measuring closeness by physical presence, partners find comfort in having the freedom to be themselves without sacrificing their relationship.

The LAT lifestyle is getting more common these days. Many people think it’s just like a long-distance relationship, but it’s not the same. The main difference between a LAT relationship and a long-distance one is choice and distance. 

LAT couples usually live in the same city or close by. They can live together if they want, but they choose not to. They like having their own space and want to stay independent. On the other hand, people in long-distance relationships are kept apart because of things like jobs, studies, or family reasons.

Long-distance partners don’t always have the choice to live near each other. Apartners choose to stay apart even when they can be together, it’s about balance, not distance.

The Upsides

- Couples who choose to live apart often enjoy a greater sense of personal freedom and independence. 

- They are able to manage their daily lives according to their own preferences, without constantly having to compromise on habits, schedules, or lifestyle choices. 

- Many also report that living separately helps maintain the excitement in their relationship, as each meeting feels more intentional and meaningful. 

- The time apart creates space to miss each other, which can strengthen emotional bonds and reduce everyday conflicts that often arise in shared living situations.

The Challenges

- However, living apart also comes with its share of difficulties. Couples may struggle with a lack of physical closeness, especially during difficult or emotional times. 

- There can be added financial pressure, as maintaining two separate homes is more expensive than living together. 

- In some cases, societal expectations and family opinions can create stress, especially in cultures where living together is seen as a mark of a serious relationship. 

- Additionally, for couples with children or long-term plans, coordinating responsibilities and emergencies can be harder when not sharing a home.