The purpose of this study was to investigate factors contributing to cohabitation amongrnheterosexual couples in Addis Ababa. In order to undertake the research, a mixed methodsrnresearch design was employed. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to selectrnthe samples of the study. Hence, using a survey data from 107 cohabiters and a semi-structuredrninterview with 6 cohabiters, the study explored major reasons for cohabitation, unique reasonsrnfor cohabitation in the study setting that could not be captured by a Western made standardrnsurvey instrument, differences in reasons for cohabitation due to selected socio-demographicrncharacteristics, and perceived advantages and disadvantages of cohabitation. The quantitativerndata analysis was done using descriptive statistics and ANOVA and the qualitative data werernanalyzed using thematic analytic approach. The findings of the study indicated that the majorrndomains of reason for cohabitation are: spending more time together, testing relationship,rnfinancial considerations, plans for marriage and pregnancy. The quantitative study identifiedrnthat women are more likely than men to cohabit because they want to spend more time togetherrnwhereas men are more likely than women to cohabit to test the relationship. On the other hand,rncouples who are less educated, unemployed and earn low income are more likely than couplesrnwho are more educated, employed and earn high income to cohabit out of convenience-basedrnreasons. The qualitative study showed that cohabitation increases the emotional and physicalrnattachment of couples. However, the study identified that cohabitation is associated with lowerrncommitment and insecurity in the relationship. Based on the findings of the study, conclusionsrnare drawn and recommendations are forwarded.rnKey words: Cohabitation, marriage, Addis Ababa, cohabiters