Introduction:
Gen Z is defined as a generation who are breaking rules and transforming social norms. Rather than adopting the traditional ways of Millennials, they are choosing a different path. Some may call it selfish, but in reality, they are redefining the rules, placing their happiness, independence and peace as the priority. And this is seen today in their views and recent trends on marriage.
For generations, marriage was considered one of life’s major milestones. It was seen as a universal symbol of love, commitment and adulthood. But in Gen Z fashion, they have changed the landscape. Instead of rushing down the aisle, they’re outdating social expectations and creating new priorities. Ones that treat marriage as an optional and often postponed life choice.
What are the marriage statistics saying today?
Statistics across the globe are all indicating the same thing: marriage rates are at the lowest levels in recorded history. In the UK, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) recorded that marriage rates dropped by nearly 50% between 1990 and 2020. Less than 1 in 5 Gen Z consider marriage to be “very important” to them, in comparison to nearly half of Baby Boomers at the same age.
Additionally, the ONS has reported that in the UK, the average age of first marriage has increased to 34 for men and 32 for women. That’s just slightly more than a decade older than the baby boomer generation. But this doesn’t mean Gen Z has given up on love or the concept of marriage. Instead, they’re redefining what love, commitment and partnership are by prioritising stability, identity and independence.
Let’s indulge in some of the reasons Gen Z have cited for why they’re choosing to say ‘I do’ later rather than sooner:
Economic realities of marriage have settled in:
If we are going to talk about the growing decline in marriages, we must talk about money. It plays a major role in the shift, with Gen Z facing some of the toughest financial conditions in decades. Sky-high rents, stagnant wages, a competitive and difficult job market, an increased level of student debt and a rising cost of living crisis. The milestone of getting married and buying a house seems nothing more than a fantasy for Gen Z.
Historically, marriage offered financial security. But today it’s more of a financial gamble. The cost of weddings, housing deposits, the pressure of shared expenses, and the rising levels of divorce. Young people don’t see financial safety or feel stable enough to enter such lifelong commitments.
A 25-year-old designer named Maya told one survey, “My parents got married at 26, bought a house at 27, and had me at 28. At 26 I can barely afford my own rent. Marriage isn’t even on my radar.”
A 24-year-old marketing assistant named Amira told a recent YouGov survey, “I’d rather focus on getting my finances together and buying a home on my own than spending £20,000 on a wedding.”
A generation of self-fulfilment and freedom means Marriage is pushed aside.
Gen Z is a generation that is chasing self-fulfilment above it all. They value flexibility, professional growth and self-development. A generation defined by independence, self-care and personal growth are perceiving marriage to be more restricting than liberating.
Additionally, Gen Z are more focused on pursuing things that bring them joy and purpose. Whether it’s elevating in their career, travelling, hustling, chasing the next big creative project, or indulging in entrepreneurship. Self-stability comes first, and relationships are meant to be an addition to their lives, not define them.
Sociologist Dr Emily Grey once said, “Gen Z’s idea of adulthood is more about self-actualisation than family formation. Marriage doesn’t define maturity anymore – purpose does.
The increase in divorce rates makes marriage less appealing.
According to the Office of National Statistics, 42% of marriages end in divorce. Gen Z have lived through the tremendous growth in divorce, thus making them cautious about marriage. They value emotional security over the falsified romantic fantasy. By learning from the mistakes of the older generations, they’re determined to make a change.
Rather than following traditions, Gen Z are being smarter. They understand that marriage is a lifelong commitment and not something that should be done in haste. They value emotional security over the falsified romantic fantasy. Thus, waiting until 30 seems like the wiser, more mature choice. They’re prioritising financial stability and emotional maturity before committing.
Gen Z has changed the rules
We live in a digital world where dating apps and shifting norms have changed how we connect. People are more inclined to prefer long-term relationships, long-distance situationships or just loosely single lifestyles.
Additionally, the social pressure of marriage doesn’t exist amongst Gen Z. In fact, many see it as an outdated institution. Cohabiting, singleness, or casually dating is more widely accepted. The idea of settling down goes against Gen Z’s desire to evolve, grow, explore and succeed on their terms.
Gen Z is in a generation of emotional intelligence and standards. They’re not settling for the sake of companionship and partnership. Rather, they value meaningful connections. Ones that don’t require them to compromise their worth, standards or happiness. Relationships and marriage are not do or die anymore.
Conclusion
Marriage before 30 may be rarer, but love among Gen Z still exists. It’s just evolved, becoming more meaningful, liberating and self-fulfilling. Marriage is now being defined on their own terms. It’s no longer a defining moment in adulthood but a choice that comes when it feels right.
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