Working as a Domestic Couple in the UK: Roles, Salaries, and What It’s Really Like

If you’ve ever looked at your partner and thought, “Could we actually work together?” The answer might be yes. For the right people, working as a domestic couple isn’t just a job. It’s a lifestyle. One that offers structure, financial stability, and the chance to live and work in some of the most beautiful homes in the UK.

Whether you're brand new to the idea, or you've already spent years in private households, this post will give you a real insight into what it’s like.

Our Story

Before launching HomePort, my partner and I were working in yachting. We were used to tight schedules, high standards, and living where we worked. So when we transitioned to land-based life, becoming a live-in domestic couple just made sense.

Our first role was at a private estate in the Cotswolds. We started off as housekeeper and houseman. My partner focused on the interiors; housekeeping, laundry, and helping manage the daily routine. I looked after the outside, gardens, general maintenance, driving, and all things exterior. That included cleaning outdoor areas, looking after the garden furniture, making sure everything from the front gates to the fire pit was spotless and guest-ready.

Over time, we were promoted and eventually ran the property between us. We led the full house team, managed budgets and schedules, and took charge of everything from day-to-day upkeep to large-scale events. It was an incredible experience that taught us the value of trust, communication, and teamwork in a private household.

What Is a Domestic Couple?

A domestic couple job is when two people, usually in a relationship are hired together to manage a private household. These are couples jobs with accommodation, meaning you live on-site, often in a self-contained flat or cottage. Together, you’re responsible for keeping everything running smoothly, inside and out.

Think of it as running a boutique hotel... just for one family.

Types of Roles for Couples

There’s no one-size-fits-all. Depending on your joint skills, you could be:

• Housekeeper & Gardener

• Chef & Chauffeur

• Nanny & Handyman

• Butler & Cook

• House Manager & Estate Manager

Some jobs are hands-on, some are more managerial. And the duties often shift with the seasons or the family’s needs.

A Day in the Life

Every household is different, but here’s a feel for what your day might look like in a couple job with accommodation:

• Morning: School runs, prepping breakfast, opening the house, walking the dogs.

• Midday: Deep cleaning, laundry, cooking lunch, gardening, coordinating suppliers.

• Afternoon: Grocery runs, estate maintenance, childcare, admin, guest prep.

• Evening: Cooking dinner, tidying, locking up, or hosting drinks if there are guests.

  
  

Some days are smooth. Others are full-on. But that’s part of the appeal. There’s never a dull moment.

Where Are These Jobs?

You’ll find private household couple jobs across the UK, but the Cotswolds is one of the busiest regions.

Cotswolds Jobs

The Cotswolds is a hotspot for private estate jobs. Families often have weekend or second homes here, which means they need a trusted couple to keep things ticking along during the week and have everything ready when they arrive.

Accommodation is often a separate cottage or converted barn and the surroundings are stunning.

City-Based Roles

In places like London, domestic couples might live in a mews house or staff flat. These roles tend to focus more on housekeeping, service, and errands, with less of the gardening or grounds care you’d do in the countryside.

How Much Do These Roles Pay?

Here’s a rough guide to domestic couple job salaries (combined gross pay):

Don’t forget, most jobs with accommodation for couples also include:

• Free housing (often fully furnished)

• Utilities and council tax

• Sometimes a car or food allowance

• Paid holidays and bonuses

You’re not paying rent or commuting, which means you get to keep more of your income.

The Pros of Working as a Domestic Couple

• You live and work together

• You both earn a full salary

• Rent and bills are usually covered

• You get to live in beautiful surroundings

• Your roles can grow over time

• You become trusted members of the household

  
  

We know couples who’ve stayed with the same family for 10 years. The trust that builds over time can lead to extra perks, bonuses, and long-term stability.

What to Keep in Mind

It’s not always an easy ride. A few things to be aware of:

• You live where you work, so boundaries matter

• Hours can be long, especially if the family entertains

• Some roles don’t allow pets or children

• You need to communicate well as a team and with the principal

• Privacy depends on the accommodation (always ask)

  
  

When we were working as a couple, we made it a rule to stop talking about work by 9pm. We’d go for a walk, make dinner, or just unwind in our space. It helped us keep the balance.

Formal vs Informal Households

Formal Households: Think uniforms, silver service, and structured routines. You might be part of a wider team. These roles tend to pay more but expect more, too.

Informal Households: More relaxed. You’re still working hard, but the environment is friendlier and more personal. You might cook, run errands, walk the dogs, and feel more like an extension of the family.

FAQs

Do we need experience?

Not always. If you’ve worked in hospitality, yachting, or property, you’ve likely got transferable skills.

Can we bring pets or kids?

Pets: sometimes. Kids: rarely, unless it’s a live-out role. Always clarify.

Do we both need to drive?

It’s a big plus. Especially for country roles.

Will we have privacy?

Yes. Most jobs with accommodation for couples offer a private flat or cottage. But always check.

Can this be a long-term career?

Absolutely. Many couples stay in this line of work for decades, progressing into management or consultancy roles over time.

Is It Right for You?

If you enjoy hands-on work, value structure, and want to build something together as a couple, this career path could be life-changing. It certainly was for us.

You’ll be part of a world that values trust, loyalty, and quiet professionalism. You’ll learn skills you never expected. And you’ll gain an incredible sense of pride in the work you do.

Ready to Explore the Lifestyle?

At HomePort Consultants, we specialise in placing experienced and first-time domestic couples into roles across the UK. From private estate jobs in the Cotswolds to city-based jobs with accommodation for couples, we’ll help you find the right match.

Whether you're new to private households or ready for your next challenge, we’d love to hear from you.

Email: info@homeportconsultants.com

Let’s find the right role for your next chapter.