You know the saying: out of sight, out of mind. But is it really true? Long distance relationships have always been a bit controversial. Despite popular belief, long distance relationship statistics show that millions of people are currently in a successful long distance relationship or even marriage.
Travel for work, study abroad, military service, living out of state, and online dating have all led to long-distance relationships becoming more common and more acceptable.
If you want to learn more about long distance relationship success, how they work, or to discover some tips for keeping yours alive in 2022, read on.
Top 10 Long Distance Relationship Facts and Statistics
- When it comes to long-distance calls, statistics show that, on average, couples live 200 kilometers apart.
- Over 90% of people in the UK and Europe are in long distance relationships.
- According to marriage statistics, 10% of couples have started a long-distance relationship together.
- The average long-distance relationship ends in 4.5 months.
- The success rate of a long-distance relationship is 58%.
- Long distance relationship statistics show that 55% of people are concerned that their partner might be dating someone else.
- Only 2% of high school relationships survive the long-distance phase.
- On average, long-distance couples talk on the phone for 30 minutes.
- Long-distance couples see each other once or twice a month on average, depending on the facts of their long-distance relationship.
- A lack of physical intimacy is the number one obstacle for 66% of people in a long-distance relationship.
General long distance relationship statistics for 2022
If you're in a long-distance relationship or marriage, the following stats will show you that you're not alone and that your love has a very good chance of working out. Even if you're unsure about joining one, be sure to read them before you decide.
1. 14 million people in the US in a long-distance relationship.
(Romantic)
And that doesn't include the rest of the world or the other 3.37 million people who are married but in long-distance relationships. While these dates may seem daunting, it means that even happy couples can end up in a long-distance relationship and still make it work.
2. There are two main types of long-distance relationships: couples who met online and couples who were separated by circumstances.
(Daily gone)
The first type of long-distance relationship is actually any relationship that begins when people don't live close to each other. They may meet online, through friends, or somewhere far from home. The second type are lovers who traditionally met but had to part due to certain circumstances.
3. When it comes to long distance calls, statistics show that couples live an average distance of 125 miles.
(Brandon Gaille)
"Absence makes love grow." Some couples are thousands of miles apart, others just hundreds, but the pain of being separated from your loved one is always the same.
4. About 75% of college students in the United States have been in a long-distance relationship, according to long-distance relationship statistics.
(Inspirational Tips)
Thanks to the internet and online communication, more couples than ever are in long-distance relationships. Job changes, new opportunities, and personal struggles are just some of the reasons couples experience this type of relationship.
5. Over 90% of people living in the UK and Europe have been in a long distance relationship.
(Green spirit body)
But of the many long-distance relationships in Europe and the UK (91% of the population have had one), half have failed.
According to UK Long Distance Statistics, the main reason for failure was lack of progress, given by 71% of women and 64% of men. The other half, who didn't break up, says that solving disputes quickly was the secret of success.
6. The average long-distance relationship ends in 4.5 months.
(Long-distance relationship)
Most relationships end. However, long-distance couples are particularly concerned about this. A survey found that couples believe long-distance relationships last an average of 14 months.
Be that as it may, these relationships usually last no more than 5 months. Of course, not all long-distance relationships are doomed to fail, and many of them last much longer.
7. The stats of close vs. long-distance relationships show that some couples are happier in a long-distance relationship.
(Romantic)
A survey found that manyPairs work betterwhen there is a distance between them. This can be explained by the amount of freedom people have in a long-distance relationship. You have a romantic partner, but also your independence.
8. Long-distance couples see each other once or twice a month on average, depending on the circumstances of the long-distance relationship.
(Brandon Gaille)
Since visits between distant couples are often not possible, the vast majority of them make calls on average up to three times a week. Many long-distance couples also write letters to each other.
Long Distance Relationship Facts and Statistics.
If you are in a long distance relationship, hello, you are part of this statistic. Now that we've covered the general information, let's dig deeper into things like success rates, frequency, and the chances of a long-distance relationship.
10. The success rate of a long-distance relationship is 58%.
(New York Post)
More than half of them last long enough to progress to something more serious. People who have been in such relationships say that the chances of success are high.
11. According to statistics, 35% of college students are in long-distance relationships.
(Refinery 29)
College is one of the main reasons so many couples go into long-distance relationships. As we have already seen, statistics report that up to 75% of university students have been to one at some point in their lives.
12. Only 2% of high school relationships survive the long-distance phase.
(stupid Credit)
Couples separated by college rarely last longer than the first Thanksgiving. This phenomenon is also known as the "Turkey Dump" because high school couples often meet for the first time on Thanksgiving.
Statistics show that most couples with a high school classmate in a long-distance relationship break up because they are willing to explore new things.
13. A third of long-distance relationships ended within 3 months of moving to the same location.
(Refinery 29)
As statistics of long-distance relationships show, some studies have found that these relationships are more stable than those in which the participants are physically closer. However, in some cases, this stability only lasts until they meet again and move to the same place to be together.
14. It is estimated that 27% of distant couples have never lived close by.
(New York Post)
Studies have found that just over a quarter of long-distance relationships actually started long-distance. As the facts about any long distance relationship show,Online-Datingit's a notable contributor to the increase in the number of long-distance relationships.
15. On average, long-distance calls take 30 minutes.
(Romantic)
Today, long-distance relationships are much easier to maintain with the help of technology. Telling someone you miss them is just a few clicks away, and staying in touch and maintaining intimacy isn't as complicated as it may have been in the past.
Distance marriage statistics for 2022
After the borders unexpectedly closed due to the pandemic, many people have been getting married remotely. To make it easier, we've found some statistics to fill in the gaps and doubts with information about the prevalence, benefits, and trends of remote marriages.
16. According to long-distance marriage statistics, 2.9% of couples are in long-distance relationships.
(Long-distance relationship)
The main reason couples live in long-distance relationships is work. In addition, military service is also one of the most common reasons for a long-distance relationship, where one or both partners are called up for active duty.
17. According to marriage statistics, 10% of couples have started a long-distance relationship together.
(electronic journal articles)
On the surface, it's not impossible for a long-distance relationship to grow into something permanent, even into a marriage. Long-distance relationships can grow stronger over time; People just have to work hard for them.
18. A study of 150 couples found that long-distance relationships make people physically and mentally healthier.
(long distance fun)
The study concluded that couples who don't see each other every day doless anxious and depressed, and eat better than those who spend all their time together.
As the psychological facts about long distance relationships explain, this is because distance allows people to be more independent and organize their daily activities and social life more freely.
19. More than half of Americans in a long-distance relationship say the situation has brought them closer to their partner.
(New York Post)
It's estimated that 55% of American adults feel a deeper connection with their partner because they're in a long-distance relationship. Marriage or a long-distance relationship causes people to miss each other more and appreciate the time they spend together more.
20. About 88% of people in long-distance relationships say technology allows them to be close to their partner.
(New York Post)
Of course, there's nothing quite like being physically close to the person you love, but technology plays a big part for those in a long-distance relationship. For a long-distance couple, marriage statistics report that constant texting and chatting gives these partners a greater sense of closeness.
21. Approximately 24% of Internet users have used the Internet or their email to communicate in a long-distance relationship.
(distance advertising)
Social media and video chats have also been of great help to people in long-distance relationships. And while social media is sometimes a source of jealousy, social media statistics on interactions in long-distance relationships show that it also instills a sense of connectedness.
22. On average, people in a long-distance relationship send 343 text messages a week.
(New York Post)
As we mentioned before, technology and communication are important factors in a successful long-distance relationship.
Chat and texting services give people the power to express themselves anytime, anywhere, and as sexting statistics show in long-distance relationships, they make up for the lack of physical intimacy.
Don't be shy at first sight: pour yourself a glass of wine andsex your partner!
Statistics and challenges of long distance relationships
All relationships face challenges and long distance relationships are no different. However,people who are in loveThey often tend to overlook the obvious challenges they face that the average couple doesn't even think about. Here are the most common.
23. A lack of physical intimacy is the number one obstacle for 66% of people in a long-distance relationship.
(Refinery 29)
SomeCouples don't have sex, and that's fine. However, not being able to share the intimacy with a loved one is the biggest challenge for long-distance couples. Also, 31% of respondents say they miss sex more.
24. Chance of cheating is 25% based on cheating statistics in a long distance relationship.
(PsicCentral)
However,Betrayal takes many forms- It's not just about sleeping with someone else. Emotional infidelity is also a form of cheating, as is hiding personal belongings from a partner and sharing them with another person.
25. Long-distance relationship statistics show that 55% of people are concerned that their partner might meet someone else.
(New York Post)
Additionally, 50% feel lonely and 43% feel distant from their partner.
26. The facts of long distance relationships show that long distance relationships are very expensive to maintain.
(Miss Kira)
However, it is not only expensive to spend money on trips to the partner. Not to mention that in 2021 with all the travel restrictions, it's probably impossible.
Telephone and electricity bills are rising. Sending surprise gifts occasionally will also cost more due to shipping cost. Aside from sacrificing your bank account, the extra time and work involved will test all long-distance relationships.
frequently asked questions
What percentage of long-distance relationships work?
(stupid Credit)
60% of all long distance relationships work out in the end. Maintaining a long-term relationship is difficult, and not everyone wants to go the extra mile, go through a lot of changes, and commit.
Do long-distance relationships last?
(Long-distance relationship)
Contrary to popular belief, long-distance relationships break up no more frequently than usual. Long-distance relationships have a 27% chance of ending within the first six months, while regular relationships have a 30% chance.
Do college long-distance relationships work?
(Urgency)
Any long-distance relationship can be successful if it has a good foundation and the partners trust each other. In addition, good communication is one of the key elements in the success of any relationship.
How do you maintain a strong long-distance relationship?
(life hack)
Communicate with your partner, but don't be possessive or drown it out. Establish ground rules that you both will abide by and be clear about what you expect from each other. Be honest with each other and trust each other. Visit each other and plan your time together. Be creative.
Can a long distance relationship last 3 years?
(Hackergeist)
A relationship can last a lifetime if the couple is willing to compromise and sacrifice some things. Strengthen your long-distance relationship by sharing hobbies or having a date night over video calls. send gifts etcKeep the spark alive with sexting, but most of all you learn to be alone.
Why don't long distance relationships work?
(stupid Credit)
Of the 40% of long-distance relationships that end, 70% fail because one or both partners weren't ready for the change.
Diploma
Any relationship is difficult to maintain and requires a lot of work, but long-distance relationships are even more difficult. Not seeing your partner can make you feel sad and lonely, but it can also strengthen your bond.
We hope this long distance relationship statistic showed you that long distance relationship can be successful even if it is very difficult. True love conquers all and distance will only make your love stronger. Just have a lot of patience, trust and communication.
List of sources:
FAQs
What percentage of long distance relationships last? ›
It turns out that 40 percent of long-distance relationships eventually come to an end. Plus, long-distance relationships that fail when changes aren't planned for are at 28 percent.
What are the statistics of long distance relationships? ›The average long-distance relationship ends in 4.5 months. The success rate of a long-distance relationship is 58%. Long distance relationship statistics indicate that 55% of people are worried that their partner will meet someone else. Only 2% of high school relationships survive the long-distance phase.
Are long distance relationships increasing? ›Yet long-distance relationships are on the rise. In the US, the 2017 census found there had been a 44% increase in married couples living apart since 2000, bringing the total to almost 4 million people. So how do these marriages work, especially given that many involve months spent in different time zones?
What are the hardest months in a long-distance relationship? ›The four-month is the hardest mark to achieve in a long-distance relationship and the moment with the highest probability of breaking up. The odds of success grow significantly after eight months into the relationship.
How many Americans are in a long-distance relationship? ›Overall, 14 million couples (28 million people) in the U.S. are in a long-distance relationship. That's 4% of the nation, effectively making it a significant minority group. And remember, that's still old data; the number is likely to be much higher now because of the coronavirus situation and lack of travel freedom.
How do most long-distance relationships fail? ›As it turns out, it might be the very same thing that can make any other relationship dissolve over time: failing to take things to the next level. According to one recent survey, long-distance relationships end when the relationship lacks a sense of progress.
How long is normal for a long-distance relationship? ›Also couples in long-distance relationships expect to live together around 14 months into the relationship. About 40% of couples in long-distance relationships break up; around 4.5 months into the relationship is the time when couples most commonly start having problems.
How often does the average long distance couple see each other? ›According to Dr. Guldner at The Center for the Study of Long-distance Relationships, the average couple visits each other 1.5 times a month. In some cases, partners have to go months without seeing each other.
What is the longest a long-distance relationship can last? ›Long distance relationships are not temporary.
The longest clocked in at 44 years (!) but there were five relationships reported over 30 years and at least a dozen more that lasted over a decade. Keep this in mind next time you think a week away from your significant other is too much.
“It's important to see each other as much as possible,” said Patel. “I know depending on the distance it can feel hard, but it's important.” She said the goal is to see one another in person at least quarterly. Even better is if you can make it work to see each other monthly.
Why do most long-distance relationships end? ›
Long distance relationships generally happen for a reason. One partner may get a job in another city, go back to school, or need some time to take care of family business. All of these things can happen on timetables; all of them can have a firm end date.
What does science say about long-distance relationships? ›Scientific studies show that couples in long-distance relationships can be equally, if not more, satisfied as geographically-close couples.
Do relationships survive long-distance? ›Research has even shown that long distance couples tend to have the same or more satisfaction in their relationships than couples who are geographically close, and higher levels of dedication to their relationships and less feelings of being trapped.
What year is the hardest in a long term relationship? ›The first year of the relationship is the hardest stage, and even when you're living together, you still discover new things about each other every day. How to Survive: The key to getting past the discovery stage is also discovery. The discovery of your partner's imperfections and your imperfections as well.
How do you survive a long-distance relationship for 2 years? ›- Discuss together the level of commitment to each other and to the relationship.
- Avoid jealousy and be trusting. ...
- Check in and catch up with each other every day. ...
- Embrace technology. ...
- Have regular time together…in person.
If you feel like your long-distance partner is keeping you down or holding you back, it's time to end the relationship. This is especially true if you're young or still in school—you don't want to look back on these years and think that you wasted them with someone you didn't truly love.
What percentage of people cheat in long distance relationships? ›1. How common is cheating in long-distance relationships? Statistics show that 40% of long-distance relationships don't work out of which 24% are because of cheating. This number might seem high, but it is actually the same as regular relationships.
Do open relationships work long distance? ›“It may sound weird to others, but being in an open relationship when you're also in a long-distance relationship is the best thing ever. There's spontaneity. If we both need a physical touch to make us feel good, we can go for it. But when we need each other's emotional and mental presence, we connect with each other.
What is the hardest thing about long-distance relationships? ›Mistrust is the one aspect which LDR are very prone to. Because of the physical distance between partners, they may find it difficult to trust each other completely. Due to the lack of trust, partners may start pulling apart mentally, causing more harm than physical distance.
How do you know a man loves you in a long-distance relationship? ›If they feel close to you and invested in your relationship, they'll be ready to chat with you whenever they can. Even if you're in different time zones, your partner will make time to stay in touch with you if they're committed. Getting a phone call or video call is another sure sign that your man loves you.
Are long-distance relationships bad for mental health? ›
When you're not living in the same household or near your partner, distance alone can increase your levels of stress. Results of one study1 indicated that being in a long-distance relationship was associated with more individual and relationship stress than being in a proximal relationship.
How long does the honeymoon phase last in a long-distance relationship? ›The honeymoon phase is an early part of a couple's relationship where everything seems carefree and happy. It usually lasts from six months to two years and can be marked with lots of laughs, intimacy, and fun dates.
What usually happens in long-distance relationship? ›People in long-distance relationships can develop jealousy towards their partner's local friends, often complaining that they spend "too much time" with them. There is also the risk of your partner developing an intimate relationship or falling in love with someone else while you are away.
How many times a week should you talk in a long-distance relationship? ›You should talk to your partner as much as you would if they lived close by. Establish communication habits that work for both you and your partner. For some couples, having an ongoing conversation throughout the day is necessary. For other, checking in once a day is adequate."
Do long distance couples fight more? ›Long-distance relationships are sometimes more stressful than people expect. When daily life is busy and you don't have enough time for each other, the pressure starts to build up. That's often when couples notice that they're fighting more often than they'd like to.
How do you keep spark in a long-distance relationship? ›- Keep Them Guessing. ...
- Listen To Each Other's Voice Daily. ...
- Do Things Together. ...
- Fix Date Nights Over Skype. ...
- Plan Visits Together. ...
- Join Each Other's Inner Circles. ...
- Keep Things Fresh. ...
- Don't Be Afraid To Share More.
Video calls are the best way to communicate in a long-distance relationship. It's not as effective as talking to someone beside you, but it's better than phone calls or texts alone.
How to tell if someone is cheating in a long-distance relationship? ›- Your partner's always busy.
- Communication has gone quiet.
- They're hanging out with new friends but they're being vague or sneaky about it.
- If you ask questions, your partner gets angry or defensive.
- 1: Observe and Understand Your Feelings.
- 2: Focus On Facts to Calm Your Imagination.
- 3: Maintain a Positive Mindset.
- 4: Meditate to Calm Anxiety.
- 5: Remember Why You Are With Your Partner.
- 6: Take Responsibility for Your Emotions.
- 7: Get Help From a Professional.
The simple answer is no, you don't need to talk every day in a long-distance relationship. Sometimes life makes it hard to respond to text or take time to talk on the phone. It's not unreasonable to need a few days to focus on work or yourself.
What keeps a long-distance relationship strong? ›
Communication. Open communication can make it easier to navigate your long distance relationship and maintain an emotional connection with your partner. Communication can also go a long way in helping you resolve any issues or conflicts that may occur during your long-distance relationship.
What happens to the brain when you re in long-distance relationships? ›“When you are not with a partner who brings us a sense of loving comfort and connection, feelings of anxiety and stress tend to increase,” she tells Elite Daily. “An increase in stress hormones (adrenaline and cortisol) are associated with depression, anxiety, and aggression.”
How far is considered long-distance? ›How long is a long distance relationship? Most people consider 125 miles or more apart a long distance relationship. Of course, there are differing opinions on this. If you can't see your partner daily or a few times a week, it's long distance.
Is sexting important in a relationship? ›While sexting is popular in short-term affairs, experts claim those in long-term relationships benefit most from it. This flirty form of communication, which includes sexually suggestive texts, photographs or videos, is useful for both long-distance partners and those who live together.
What is the 7-year rule in relationships? ›What Exactly is the 7-Year Itch? The 7-Year Itch is the idea that marriages start to decline or end in divorce around the seven-year mark due to boredom or even unhappiness. Either one or both partners can feel the 7-Year Itch and can be produced by several different factors, including: Lack of communication.
What years do most couples break up? ›While there are countless divorce studies with conflicting statistics, the data points to two periods during a marriage when divorces are most common: years 1 – 2 and years 5 – 8. Of those two high-risk periods, there are two years in particular that stand out as the most common years for divorce — years 7 and 8.
What is the most stable relationship age gap? ›Couples with an age gap of 1 to 3 years (with the man older than the woman) were the most common and had the greatest levels of satisfaction. Relationship satisfaction decreased slightly for couples with age gaps of 4 to 6 years and continued to decrease for couples with an age gap of 7 or more years.
What is the secret of a long-distance relationship? ›However, the key to maintaining a strong long-distance relationship is complete honesty and trust. Very often being apart can stir up feelings of jealousy, insecurity, or abandonment. And if one partner doesn't feel secure in the relationship, it will quickly crumble.
Can a long-distance relationship last for 10 years? ›The good news is long distance relationships can work, and they can last. We're living proof of it. Originally living on two separate continents and separated by over 5,000 miles, last month we celebrated our tenth wedding anniversary. Ten years is a milestone and we're both proud of reaching it.
How do you keep love alive in a long-distance relationship? ›Communicate daily, but not excessively
While communication is important, keeping a balance is equally essential. You must have your long calls, but even if you cannot dedicate a lot of time talking to your partner on a particular day, do communicate anyhow. A short call, a text message, or an email is good enough.
What month is the hardest in a long-distance relationship? ›
The four-month is the hardest mark to achieve in a long-distance relationship and the moment with the highest probability of breaking up. The odds of success grow significantly after eight months into the relationship.
Who cheat most in a long-distance relationship? ›Who cheats more in a long-distance relationship? In a long-distance relationship, the person who has stronger unfulfilled needs is more likely to cheat. For example, you might be okay to go without sex for a few weeks, while your partner may start craving sex after one week.
How do you know if she loves you in a long-distance relationship? ›- Strong commitment. ...
- They will be patient with you. ...
- You trust each other. ...
- Their close circle know about you. ...
- You discuss future goals. ...
- You can talk to them about anything. ...
- They respect you. ...
- You don't hold onto grudges.
How long extramarital affairs last varies: about 50% may last between the period of one month to a year affair, long term affairs may last long-term, for about 15 months or more, and about 30% of affairs last about two years and beyond.
How long-distance strengthens relationship? ›The great thing about a long-distance relationship is that it can help strengthen the bond that goes beyond the physical between you and your partner, because you have more time to talk to each other about yourselves and about each other. A long-distance relationship fosters communication and trust-building.
How long do couples do long-distance? ›Some couples might go long-distance for a month or two, while some can spend years living apart. Having a long-distance partner doesn't mean that the relationship isn't healthy, but they might need more effort from each partner in certain areas.
Are long-distance relationships worth? ›While they aren't for everyone, long-distance relationships have their benefits, especially for people who value space and independence. They may also be worth it if you know there is a plan for reducing the distance in the future.
How do you know if a long-distance relationship is fading? ›- You don't talk as much as you used to.
- You don't see each other often enough.
- You or your long-distance partner avoid meaningful conversations about your feelings and your relationship.
- You don't have a plan to get together.
Research has even shown that long distance couples tend to have the same or more satisfaction in their relationships than couples who are geographically close, and higher levels of dedication to their relationships and less feelings of being trapped.
Do long distance relationships fall apart? ›Your long-distance relationship can be falling apart for several reasons. One reason is the lack of physical intimacy, which is very hard to maintain in a long-distance relationship. Another reason for a relationship to fall apart is a lack of trust and effective communication.
How often should you visit a long-distance relationship? ›
“It's important to see each other as much as possible,” said Patel. “I know depending on the distance it can feel hard, but it's important.” She said the goal is to see one another in person at least quarterly. Even better is if you can make it work to see each other monthly.
Does distance make love stronger? ›A study published in the Journal of Communication found that couples in long-distance relationships have more meaningful interactions than those who see each other every day, leading to higher levels of intimacy.
Do long-distance couples fight more? ›Long-distance relationships are sometimes more stressful than people expect. When daily life is busy and you don't have enough time for each other, the pressure starts to build up. That's often when couples notice that they're fighting more often than they'd like to.
Who cheats more in long-distance relationship? ›Who cheats more in a long-distance relationship? In a long-distance relationship, the person who has stronger unfulfilled needs is more likely to cheat. For example, you might be okay to go without sex for a few weeks, while your partner may start craving sex after one week.
How do you know if a long-distance relationship is working? ›- They ask about your day. ...
- They send packages in the mail. ...
- They tell their family about you. ...
- They listen. ...
- You're able to work through arguments together. ...
- They trust you. ...
- They give you space. ...
- Every visit is a reminder of why the distance is worth it.
They make excuses to not communicate.
"If your partner has too many reasons why they can't communicate, this should be a red flag," Murzello told INSIDER. "This could include running errands, catching up on a sitcom, picking up extra shifts at work; basically finding a reason to keep from making contact with you."
A red flag for an unhealthy relationship and controlling behavior is if your partner is messaging you constantly, asking where you are or demanding that you send pictures of people that you're with. They might say, “I want to make sure you're not with anyone I don't like,” or “I'm just checking in on you.”