New Delhi: Property prices in India’s top cities are touching record highs. Rents are climbing fast too. For many young urban residents, living alone or upgrading to a bigger space feels impossible.
This housing crunch has given rise to an unusual trend — “urban hobosexuality.” The term refers to people entering relationships mainly for housing or financial support, not for love.
The idea may sound like a social media joke, but experts say it is a real and growing phenomenon in urban India.
What is hobosexuality?
Hobosexuality describes a pattern where one partner depends heavily on the other for shelter or financial help, often without offering equal emotional or practical support.
The term originated in Western internet culture but is now finding relevance in India’s expensive metro cities. Places like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru have seen rents soar, making dating and living arrangements more transactional.
Expert view
Psychotherapist Dr. Chandni Tugnait explains that many people — often women — find themselves with partners who bring little to the table financially or emotionally, yet take up significant space in their lives. These relationships may appear romantic but often hide a clear power imbalance.
A personal story
Ankita (name changed), a 38-year-old entrepreneur, thought she had found love. She let her partner move in. Soon, she realised she was paying the rent and carrying the relationship alone. Her partner offered small gestures, like walking the dog, but was emotionally absent when needed.
Why it happens
High housing costs are a major factor. Deloitte’s *2025 Gen Z and Millennial Work Survey* found that over 50% of millennials and Gen Z workers in India live paycheck to paycheck. In cities like Mumbai, rent can take up nearly half a person’s income.
Cultural pressure to settle down, a romanticised view of struggle, and the desire to “save” a partner also contribute to the problem. Dr. Tugnait warns that such dynamics are dangerous because they are often disguised as devotion.
The takeaway
Experts say the goal is not to shame people facing financial struggles, but to encourage relationships built on equality and mutual respect — not just emotional convenience.
Tags: #UrbanLiving #RealEstateIndia #HousingCrisis #Relationships #Hobosexuality #MetroCities #RisingRents
