"Tramps Like Us" centers on Sumire Iwaya, a successful career-driven journalist in her early thirties who faces societal pressure to marry and conform to traditional expectations. Despite her professional achievements, her personal life is marked by loneliness and a string of failed relationships. One evening, she encounters a homeless young man named Momo, who she initially mistakes for a stray dog due to his disheveled appearance. In a moment of impulsiveness, Sumire offers him a place to stay in exchange for companionship, likening their arrangement to that of a pet and owner.

Momo, whose real name is revealed to be Tsukasa Momo, is a former high school baseball star whose life took a downward turn after an injury ended his athletic career. He becomes Sumire’s live-in companion, taking on domestic responsibilities while she navigates the complexities of her career and personal life. Their relationship evolves into a nuanced dynamic, blending elements of dependency, mutual support, and unspoken affection. Sumire’s interactions with Momo challenge her preconceived notions about relationships and societal norms, while Momo finds a sense of purpose and stability in his new role.

The narrative explores themes of class disparity, societal expectations, and the search for identity and belonging. Sumire’s professional life introduces additional layers of conflict, including her complicated relationship with her boss and former lover, Hasumi, who represents the conventional path she resists. As the story progresses, Sumire and Momo’s bond deepens, though their connection remains ambiguous, oscillating between platonic and romantic undertones.

Supporting characters, such as Sumire’s colleagues and Momo’s acquaintances from his past, contribute to the exploration of the protagonists’ growth and the societal pressures they face. The series balances humor, drama, and introspection, presenting a thoughtful examination of unconventional relationships and the challenges of defying societal norms. Through its character-driven narrative, "Tramps Like Us" offers a compelling portrayal of human connection and the complexities of modern life.