For decades, marriage was seen as the ultimate goal for women. But in 2024, that narrative is shifting—American women are increasingly choosing to stay single, and they’re happier for it!
According to an AEI 2024 survey, over half of single women report being happier than their married friends. The trend is reflected in census data analyzed by the Aspen Economic Strategy Group, which found that 51.4% of U.S. women aged 18-40 were single in 2023, a jump from 41.8% in 2000.
A Pew Research Center survey backs this up—48% of women say marriage isn’t necessary for a fulfilling life, compared to just 39% of men. This is a dramatic shift from 2019 when only 31% of women shared this belief.
One of the biggest reasons? Education and financial independence. In 2024, 47% of women aged 25-34 hold a bachelor’s degree, compared to just 37% of men. This growing educational gap has empowered women to prioritize careers, personal goals, and financial independence over marriage.
But economic struggles play a role too. Marriage rates have dropped significantly among women without college degrees, as men’s financial instability makes long-term commitment less appealing. Research from Cornell economist Benjamin Goldman found that marriage rates for non-college-educated women by age 45 have plunged from 79% to 52% over decades.
There’s also a financial downside to being single. While the gender wealth gap is shrinking, the wealth gap between singles and married couples has doubled from 2010 to 2022. According to the St. Louis Federal Reserve, married couples had a median wealth of $393,000 in 2022, while unmarried individuals had just $80,000.
Despite these financial realities, many women are still choosing singlehood over marriage, proving that happiness isn’t defined by a wedding ring anymore.
