Recent research reveals a significant shift in how young Americans view marriage. According to a Pew Research Center study, only 67% of high school seniors in 2023 expect to marry someday—a sharp decline from the 80% who said the same in 1993. This trend is particularly pronounced among girls, whose expectations have fallen by roughly 22% over the same period, while boys’ views remain largely unchanged.
Why This Matters
This isn’t just about numbers. It reflects a broader cultural shift where traditional milestones like marriage are no longer automatic assumptions for young women. Instead, they’re prioritizing independence, personal fulfillment, and self-discovery before considering long-term commitments.
Key Findings from the Report
- Declining Interest in Children: The share of teens who “very likely” want children if married has also dropped, from 64% in 1993 to 48% in 2023.
- Shifting Views on Lifelong Commitment: Fewer teens believe they’ll stay married for life. Only 51% now expect lifelong marriage, compared to 59% in 1993.
- The Gender Gap: The most striking change is the decline in marriage expectations among girls, while boys’ views have remained relatively stable.
What Teens Are Saying
Interactions with young people reveal that marriage is simply not at the forefront of their minds. They prioritize building their own identities, gaining financial independence, and establishing emotional well-being before even considering long-term commitments. One teen described adulthood as “booking my own doctor’s appointment” rather than planning a wedding.
Marriage, when discussed, is often framed through the lens of social status or brand clout, as seen in influencer culture, rather than romance or family life. Teens prioritize authentic relationships, emotional safety, and trust over legal structures.
What Parents Need to Know
If you have a teen, the fact that marriage isn’t a priority for them doesn’t mean they’re rejecting family values. It means they’re prioritizing self-discovery and independence. Instead of focusing on when they’ll get married, explore why marriage matters to you and whether it matters to them.
Open conversations about what marriage represents in your family, what healthy commitment looks like, and where those beliefs come from can be more valuable than simply assuming they’ll follow a traditional path. Broaden the conversation beyond marriage to discuss their broader life goals, financial independence, and emotional well-being.
The Bottom Line
Marriage is no longer the default assumption for young Americans, especially young women. They’re asking new questions, dreaming bigger, and choosing futures that feel authentic to them. This isn’t a rejection of commitment; it’s a redefinition of what matters most
