© John Dolan Few real couples share their experiencesMoving in together is a momentous occasion that marks a serious step forward in a romantic relationship. That said, it doesn't always mean the momentum will continue to be forward-moving. Sometimes sharing a space (not to mention bills) drives a previously happy couple to drink. Other times, it makes it crystal clear that you weren't meant to be in the first place. Finally, there's the best option of all: You live happily ever after. While no one can predict the outcome of moving in together, a few real couples share their experiences, for better or for worse.

3 months:

"My ex and I moved in together after just three months. We were both 'sure' it was going to be forever. Flash forward one year, and we were both in search of a new lease (separately). I wish I had waited and I don't plan to move in with anyone else again until I'm engaged." —Allison, 32

6.5 years:

"My boyfriend and I met freshman year of college and dated for 4 and a half years. Now it's 2 years post-college, and we are moving in together. I feel pretty sure that he's The One." —Sophie, 23

4 years:

"My boyfriend and I moved in together after 4 years of dating (and after being sick of living at our parents’ houses), but it turned out to be a complete nightmare. Five months into our year lease, we ended up breaking up and I moved out. Two months after that, though, we realized how dumb we were both being and got back together—although we haven't moved back in together." —Jana, 26

1.5 years:

“We moved in after a year and a half of dating. We lived across the city from each other, which took about an hour of travel time each way, so we were ready to finally start fresh with our own place. We make good roommates: We were up front and communicated about our various quirks and pet peeves before even moving in. Also, we’re both only children, which means we appreciate the importance of alone time. We just got engaged a few months ago, so I think it’s safe to say it worked out OK!” —Jessica, 27

2.5 years:

"My ex and I had been dating for a long time when we finally moved in together. It seemed like the next logical step and we had loosely been discussing getting engaged. We loved each other for sure, but looking back we had been fighting a lot . I think we both thought that taking this step would kind of fix everything, but it didn't. About 8 months later, I ended up moving out. We kept seeing each other for a bit, but it just ultimately didn't work out." —Elyssa, 32

3 years:

"My boyfriend and I moved in together a few months after I moved to New York City after college. We had been together for 3 years when college ended and he headed off to travel around India for six months. Two months into his trip, I called him and asked if I should be looking for an apartment in New York for just me or for both of us. I added: Let me know in the next four hours . Four days later we moved in together. That was 10 years ago. We're still together—and married—today!" —Tracy, 32