Camilla Jessen
Michelle Obama’s podcast comment stirs online argument.
Michelle Obama has sparked a lively debate after sharing her thoughts on when couples should move in together.
The discussion unfolded during a recent episode co-hosted with her brother, Craig Robinson, after a listener raised a financial dilemma in a young relationship.
A listener’s dilemma
The question came from a woman who said she had been dating her partner for a year. With his lease ending, he suggested moving in together, explaining he could contribute $500 a month in rent while she would cover the remainder.
She asked how to handle the imbalance and whether moving in so early made sense.
Obama acknowledged her response might stir debate before offering her view.
‘Take some time’
“If its early in the relationship you shouldn’t be moving in first of all. I don’t care how much money he has or doesn’t have, you don’t know him yet,” Obama said.
She added: “Maybe this will be controversial but I think you can have deep like at first sight but love to me in most instances, it takes time.”
“For someone to reveal themselves to you over time to know whether or not your affections and feelings stand the test of time. My recommendation is always take some time, make moving in like way down the line.”
Her comments quickly circulated online, prompting mixed reactions.
Cost of living concerns
On Reddit, several users said they understood her reasoning but argued that economic realities complicate the issue.
“I get what she’s saying but many people are having to make these types of rush decisions because of the insane cost of living,” one user wrote, adding that shared rent can be more affordable than living alone or with multiple roommates.
Another commented: “Yeah… the affordability crisis, esp rent, has really limited the freedom of young people’s lives… it’s like people have to make tough choices because of the economy and their financial situation.”
Others pointed out that living together can reveal aspects of a partner’s personality that dating alone may not expose.
Divided opinions
Some agreed with Obama that financial pressure should not rush major decisions. Others said cohabitation is a practical and sometimes necessary step in modern relationships.
The exchange highlights a broader tension between traditional relationship advice and today’s economic challenges.
Sources: Michelle Obama podcast, Reddit
