"Singledom has peaked": Number of unpartnered adults in America declines for first time in 2 decades, survey says

A recent analysis by the Pew Research Center has revealed a noteworthy trend in American relationships: for the first time in nearly two decades, the share of unpartnered adults, those neither married nor living with a partner, has decreased. The analysis, based on Census Bureau data, indicates a slight rise in married couples, up from 50% to 51%. This shift suggests a potential change in how Americans approach romantic relationships, according to Dr. Richard Fry, a labor economist at Pew.

In the year 2000, 38% of adults were classified as unpartnered, a figure that rose to a peak of 44% in 2019 before dropping to 42% in 2023. While specific demographics, including younger adults and those without a high school diploma, still reported higher unpartnered rates, there has been a general increase in romantic partnerships among adults. Data shows that those living with unmarried partners rose from 6% to 7% during the same period, while the married demographic grew slightly.

Despite fluctuations in marriage rates, there has been a significant decline in divorces, with only 1.4% of married adults reporting a divorce in 2023 compared to a peak of 2% in 2012. This decline in divorces could indicate a shift toward more stable marriages, reflecting positive changes in how couples navigate their relationships.

Financial implications accompany these relationship trends, as partnered adults typically experience better economic outcomes. Research indicates that divorce can significantly deplete an individual's wealth, while being married nearly doubles comparative wealth. Pew's survey highlights that 64% of single adults report being financially stable, compared to 77% of partnered adults, suggesting the economic advantages of being in a relationship.

In the context of these findings, personal experiences also resonate. Zach Thompson, who met his wife in middle school and married her in 2020, emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships. He believes in the value of fighting for love and commitment, reflecting a broader sentiment that might be contributing to the observed trends in American partnerships.