The study found that this gap is surprisingly common: on average, couples share the same bed at the same time only three nights per week. Conducted by Talker Research for Avocado Green Mattress, the survey showed that the typical couple experiences an 80-minute bedtime gap multiple times a week.

Smaller Gap, Happier Couples

Couples who go to bed together more often report higher marital happiness. Those who share bedtime together around four nights a week are more likely to describe their marriage as “very happy,” while couples with less overlap report sharing bedtime only once a week.

The pattern is similar for couples with aligned sleep habits. Matching circadian rhythms appear to boost satisfaction: 71% of night owls and 78% of early birds said they were very happy in their marriage, compared with only 59% of couples with differing sleep patterns.

Why It Matters

• Closeness: About 58% of respondents feel a stronger emotional connection when going to bed together.

• Intimacy: 59% say simultaneous bedtime contributes to greater physical intimacy.

Age also plays a role in how couples perceive the bedtime gap. Millennials place greater importance on syncing bedtime:

• 62% report better sleep when going to bed together versus 27% of baby boomers.

• 76% of millennials feel closer to their partner with synchronized sleep, compared with 41% of baby boomers, though overall marital satisfaction remains fairly consistent across age groups.

Sleep needs and priorities naturally shift with age. Older couples may have more established routines and balance sleep and relationship needs differently. Ultimately, the key is ensuring both partners get the rest they need, since quality sleep affects both health and overall well-being.