New Relationships and Living Arrangements After Divorce: What Today’s Canadians Are Choosing

Have you ever noticed how life after divorce no longer follows one predictable script? Maybe you’ve wondered what dating is supposed to look like in your forties or fifties. Or whether moving in with someone again is even necessary. Or how to blend two families without losing your mind.

If you’re nodding, you’re definitely not alone.

Across the country, Canadians are reshaping their relationships in flexible, intentional, and deeply personal ways after divorce. While many people move into new relationships or common-law partnerships, others are exploring modern arrangements like living apart together (LAT), where partners maintain committed relationships while keeping separate homes.

And for many, this fresh approach is not only practical — it’s liberating.

Let’s look at what’s changing, why it matters, and how these choices are shaping healthier next chapters.

The Rise of New Relationships After Divorce

It’s well-known that a large portion of divorced Canadians eventually find new partners. But what’s interesting is how they’re approaching those relationships today.

1. More people are taking their time

After a long-term marriage, many prefer slow dating — getting to know themselves again and easing into new emotional territory. This mirrors national trends showing Canadians increasingly favouring intentional, paced connection over rushing into commitment.

2. Common-law partnerships are more popular than ever

Canada leads the G7 in common-law relationships. According to Statistics Canada:

• Nearly one-quarter of couples in Canada are common-law, with Quebec leading the trend.

• Among couples aged 35–64, 26% were in a second or subsequent marriage or common-law union, up from 23% in 2006.

• In Quebec, 36% in that age range were in a second or later union.

  
  

For people who found marriage restrictive or emotionally exhausting, common-law partnerships can offer closeness, stability and a more flexible lifestyle — while still creating a legal relationship, just one that often feels less formal and more adaptable than remarriage.

Living Apart Together (LAT): The Fastest-Growing Post-Divorce Relationship Style

If there’s one trend that’s truly rewriting post-divorce norms, it’s LAT.

A living apart together arrangement allows couples to maintain intimacy and commitment while preserving personal space, routines, and finances. You might spend weekends together and weekdays apart — or the opposite — depending on what works for your lives.

LAT is growing — and the data proves it

• In 2017, 9% of Canadians aged 25–64 in a couple lived apart from their partner — up from about 6% in 2006.

• According to Statistics Canada, LAT is most common among younger adults:

  • ~20% of partnered people aged 25–34

  • ~7% of those 35–54

  • ~5% of those 55–64

• In 2011, about 1.9 million Canadians (7.4% of adults) were in a LAT relationship.

• The 2024 report from the Vanier Institute of the Family states “Approximately one in 10 people in Canada are in an intimate relationship but do not live with their partner” 

  
  

Why LAT appeals after divorce

1. Independence becomes a priority After the emotional complexity of marriage, having your own home feels grounding and empowering.

2. Co-parenting schedules make LAT practical If kids are with you part-time, merging households too early may feel disruptive.

3. Finances stay clear and separate Two homes often mean fewer financial complications while rebuilding.

4. The emotional pacing feels safer LAT lets you ease into intimacy without the pressure of moving in prematurely.

LAT isn’t for everyone — but it’s proof that relationships after divorce aren’t one-size-fits-all anymore.

Dating After Divorce: The Good, the Awkward, and the Surprisingly Empowering

If you haven’t dated in a decade (or two), your first reaction might be: “Where do I even start?”

Totally normal.

You get to rediscover yourself

Many divorced adults say dating helps them reconnect with their evolving needs, communication style, and boundaries.

Yes, dating apps can feel like a second job

Platforms like Bumble, Match, or Hinge are filled with people in similar life stages — but they can also be overwhelming. Choosing apps geared toward mature relationships helps.

And yes, you may feel terrified and hopeful at the same time

Both emotions can coexist. Healing takes time, and a mindful pace is your friend.

Dating While Co-Parenting: A Delicate Balance

Dating is complicated. Dating with kids, shared custody, and co-parenting? Even more so.

Here are principles that help:

1. Keep early dating separate from your kids No need for introductions until the relationship is actually stable.

2. Maintain predictable routines Stability helps kids feel safe, even when your personal life changes.

3. Avoid comparing your new partner to your ex It’s a mental trap and only adds tension.

4. Give your co-parent a respectful heads-up before introductions Not details — just notice.

Blended Families: Beautiful but Complex

Blending families takes patience, communication, and realistic expectations.

What to remember:

• Not all kids warm up quickly. That’s normal.

• Different parenting styles are common. Align expectations early.

• Couple time matters. You’re the foundation of your new household.

• Professional support helps. Stepfamily therapists and coaches can smooth the transition.

Social Stigma Is Fading — But Not Gone

Some divorcees still feel judged for dating “too soon,” choosing common-law instead of remarriage, or opting for LAT.

But the truth is: There is no universal timeline for healing or rebuilding.

The stigma is fading because more Canadians are valuing individuality, emotional health, and lifestyle fit over outdated expectations.

Your next chapter doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

The Bottom Line

Life after divorce is more flexible than ever. Canadians are dating with greater self-awareness, choosing relationships that reflect their values, and exploring modern living arrangements like common-law partnerships and LAT.

Whether you’re rediscovering dating, co-parenting while meeting someone new, or building a blended family, you have the freedom to design your next chapter on your terms.

There’s no blueprint — just opportunities to build something healthier, more intentional, and aligned with who you are now.