The decline in the marriage rate in the USA from 1990 to 2021 is a significant trend that reflects changing attitudes towards marriage. In recent years, fewer men are choosing to get married compared to the number of men who got married in 2000. This shift can be attributed to various factors such as changing social norms, financial concerns, and a growing preference for alternative forms of partnership.
One major factor contributing to the decline in marriage rates is financial concerns. Many young people today are struggling with student loan debt, high housing costs, and uncertain job prospects. As a result, they may be hesitant to take on the additional financial responsibilities that come with marriage. Furthermore, with more women entering the workforce and achieving financial independence, the need for marriage as a means of financial security has decreased.
| Year | Marriage rate per 1,000 people |
|---|---|
| 2000 | 8.2 |
| 2001 | 7.7 |
| 2002 | 7.5 |
| 2003 | 7.3 |
| 2004 | 7.1 |
| 2005 | 6.9 |
| 2006 | 6.8 |
| 2007 | 6.7 |
| 2008 | 6.8 |
| 2009 | 6.8 |
| 2010 | 6.8 |
| 2011 | 6.8 |
| 2012 | 6.8 |
| 2013 | 6.8 |
| 2014 | 6.9 |
| 2015 | 6.9 |
| 2016 | 6.9 |
| 2017 | 6.9 |
| 2018 | 6.5 |
| 2019 | 6.1 |
| 2020 | 5.1 |
| 2021 | 5.3 |
| 2022 | 4.9 |
In recent years, I’ve noticed a shift in the attitudes towards marriage in my social circle here in France. In the 1990s, marriages were common, and I would attend at least one wedding every year. However, nowadays, many men are hesitant to marry their partners. Instead, they opt for an alternative agreement called PACS (Civil Solidarity Pact), which allows for the separation of assets and can be terminated in just 24 hours without any obligation for alimony payments. It’s similar to a prenup, with no community property involved.
Interestingly, this shift has led to some significant consequences. In the past, many women didn’t worry about their careers, knowing that they could rely on their husband’s income in a marriage. Now, women have to prioritize their careers, as men are less likely to financially support them after a relationship.
I remember visiting beautiful houses in the suburbs with all the modern appliances when I was a teenager. The housewives had a comfortable life in those “castles,” and they didn’t need to work because they were married. If something went wrong, they could always divorce and get half of the household assets.
However, nowadays, those housewives of the past must now work. They aren’t married, and if they break up, they can’t rely on alimony or their ex-partner’s assets. Therefore, their job position is their best life insurance.
Looking back, I am impressed by the men who could balance a career and financially support their wives for 50 years. It was a Herculean task.