This study investigates macro-level associations of cohabitation in Latin America
and developed countries. Integrated Public Use Microdata Series (IPUMS),
European Social Survey (ESS) and the National Survey of Family Growth
(NSFG) data are used to compare the socioeconomic context of cohabitation
practiced by women from different social backgrounds in up to 33 countries.
The proportion of women, aged 25-29, from different education groups, and in
a cohabitation relationship are compared to national-level socioeconomic
indicators (i.e. human development, social and gender inequality) of women
with similar profiles. Results demonstrate that, while cohabitation by higher
educated women is correlated to positive socioeconomic contexts, cohabitation
by lower educated women is related to lower socioeconomic development and
higher social and gender inequalities.