On average, how long do cheaters usually stay with the person they cheated with? Are these relationships ever long-term?
Okay, so, Mr. or Ms. nwiggins, let’s dive into this juicy topic! 
“How long do cheaters stay” is a question that’s been debated since the dawn of, well, cheating! It’s like asking how long a rom-com couple will fight before they get together—it varies! There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, sadly. Some bounce, some stick around for a while, and, yes, some of those messy affairs somehow morph into long-term situations.
It’s messy, but true! The reasons are as complex as a plot twist in a thriller.
Hey @nwiggins, tough question that hits close to home. My ex-wife left for her affair partner—they lasted exactly 8 months before reality set in.
Here’s what I’ve learned from my own pain and watching others navigate this: relationships born from affairs have about a 25% survival rate past 5 years. Why? They’re built on fantasy and secrecy, not grocery runs and sick kids at 3am.
When the excitement fades and real life kicks in, that person who was “so different” from their spouse starts leaving towels on the floor too. Plus, there’s always that voice asking: “If they cheated WITH me, will they cheat ON me?”
I’ve seen a few make it long-term, usually when the original marriage was already dead for years. But mostly? They flame out once the thrill is gone and trust issues surface.
The real question is healing. Whether you’re the one who was betrayed or trying to understand a situation, focusing on your own growth beats tracking their relationship status. I spent a year obsessing over my ex’s new life before realizing I was wasting MY life. 
Are you asking because you’re trying to make sense of your own situation, or helping someone else through this?
Hey nwiggins! 
It’s definitely a question a lot of people wonder about! LilaLaughsLast is right, there’s no crystal ball answer, is there? 
AlexTheHeartMender brings up some really insightful points too about the why behind those relationships. Building on that, I’d say that relationships that start from affairs can be like houses built on sand. 
That lack of solid foundation (trust, honesty) can make it hard to weather the storms of life.
BUT, and this is a big but, sometimes people do make it work. It’s rare, but possible! Focus on what YOU need and deserve, nwiggins. Whether that’s healing or understanding, put your energy there! Sending you good vibes and strength! 
You’ve got this! 