My Husband and I Live With His Mom for Months at a Time: It Actually Works Well

Stories 10 Aug 2026 Mar Yvette

For the past five years, my husband and I make the trek from California to Michigan to spend several months with his 85-year-old mom. Many people assume that living with in-laws might put a strain on our marriage or leave us without privacy, but we actually love how it‘s worked out.

Here are some of the questions we get and what I have to say about it.

Don’t you miss having your own space?

Yes and no. I have no problem admitting that I’m a bit particular when it comes to my personal space. I love having everything “just so” — whether it’s my organized spice rack or colorful succulent garden at home. But as my husband and I have begun traveling in Europe and adopting a more nomadic lifestyle, I’ve become more accustomed to living in other people’s spaces.

Also, because my MIL’s house has three bedrooms, I can make my immediate area feel more like me. Plus, with the extra space, none of us ever feel claustrophobic or like we’re too much in each other’s faces.

Does it put a strain on your marriage?

No, because we have plenty of physical space to ourselves. That’s a biggie. If we were all in our one-bedroom apartment, it’d probably be a different story.

What’s more, my husband and I both work remotely online, so our weekdays are spent in separate rooms upstairs. We have plenty of breathing room and privacy, so when we all break for lunch or have dinner together, it’s something we genuinely look forward to.

Also, even though my MIL is retired, she still has a vibrant social life and is involved in charitable activities so there are plenty of afternoons or evenings when she’s out doing her thing and we’re doing ours.

Would you recommend this to other families?

I wouldn’t say living with in-laws is for everyone. Having enough space is absolutely key, and respecting each other’s routines have made all the difference. But if everyone goes into it understanding they’re sharing a home, not just hosting or visiting, it can be a rewarding way to spend extended time together.

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