Marriage rates in the United States have been on a steady decline, with fewer Americans tying the knot than ever before.
In 2024, only 47.1% of households were headed by married couples, marking one of the lowest figures since the Census Bureau began tracking marital status in 1940.
This shift reflects changing societal norms, economic factors, and evolving priorities among individuals across the nation.
As people increasingly choose to marry later in life or not at all, the landscape of marriage varies significantly from state to state.
Some states boast higher marriage rates, while others show a stark contrast with fewer residents choosing to wed.
This guide delves into the ten states where Americans are most and least likely to get married, shedding light on the factors influencing these trends and offering a closer look at the evolving institution of marriage in contemporary America.
10 States Americans Most Likely to Get Married
Marriage rates vary across the United States, influenced by social, economic, and cultural factors. Some states have higher rates of marriage due to their demographics and societal norms, while others see lower rates due to different trends in lifestyle and family dynamics.
Here’s a look at 10 states where Americans are most and least likely to tie the knot:
1: Wyoming
Wyoming ranks among the states where Americans are least likely to get married. In 2024, only 36.5% of households were led by married couples.
This low rate can be attributed to several factors, including a younger population prioritizing education and career over early marriage.
Economic factors, like job availability in rural areas, also play a role. Also, the state’s vast landscapes and outdoor lifestyle encourage individuals to embrace single living, further contributing to the trend of delayed marriage in Wyoming.
2: Idaho
Idaho ranks among the states where Americans are least likely to marry, with only 41.3% of households led by married couples.
Factors influencing this trend include a strong focus on education and career paths among the younger population. Many prioritize stability before committing to marriage, reflecting a national shift in values.
Also, rural living and ample outdoor activities promote single lifestyles, further delaying marriage for many residents. These dynamics contribute to Idaho’s lower marriage rates compared to more traditional states.
3: Maine
Maine ranks among the states where Americans are least likely to get married, with only 44.5% of households led by married couples.
Factors contributing to this trend include the state’s aging population, which leads to fewer young couples tying the knot. Many residents prioritize outdoor activities and a close-knit community over traditional marriage.
Also, economic opportunities can be limited in rural areas, prompting younger individuals to delay marriage for career advancement. This focus on personal growth and exploration influences marriage patterns significantly in Maine.
4: West Virginia
West Virginia ranks low in marriage rates, with only 43.7% of households led by married couples. Economic challenges, such as job scarcity and lower income levels, play a significant role in this trend. Young adults often prioritize employment and education, leading to delayed marriage.
Also, a strong sense of community and family ties can sometimes replace the traditional marriage model, as many residents find fulfillment in long-term partnerships without formalizing them through marriage. These factors collectively contribute to West Virginia’s declining marriage rates.
5: Arkansas
Arkansas shows a marriage rate lower than the national average, with only 46.2% of households led by married couples.
Factors influencing this trend include economic conditions, where many young adults focus on education and career opportunities before considering marriage.
Also, Arkansas has a significant population in rural areas, resulting in a lifestyle that often prioritizes single living.
Changing social attitudes toward relationships also play a role, with many residents opting for cohabitation instead of formal marriage. The state’s evolving views on commitment contribute to its declining marriage rates.
6: Kentucky
Kentucky’s marriage rate stands at 44.0%, reflecting a significant shift in societal norms and priorities. Economic challenges, such as job availability, heavily influence this trend, with many young adults focusing on educational and career pursuits before considering marriage.
The state’s rural lifestyle often promotes singles living, as residents engage in community and recreational activities rather than traditional marriage.
Also, a strong emphasis on family ties may lead individuals to prioritize long-term partnerships without formalizing them through marriage, contributing further to Kentucky’s declining marriage rates.
7: Montana
Montana ranks low in marriage rates, with only 43.2% of households led by married couples. Economic factors greatly influence this trend as young adults often prioritize education and career advancement over early marriage.
Also, the state’s vast rural landscapes encourage a lifestyle that favors single living and outdoor activities. Social norms are evolving, leading many to opt for cohabitation instead of formal marriage.
These factors combined contribute to the decline of traditional marriage in Montana, mirroring trends seen in other states with similar demographics.
8: Oklahoma
Oklahoma ranks among the states where Americans are least likely to get married, with only 44.2% of households led by married couples.
Factors influencing this trend include economic challenges, where young adults often prioritize financial stability before committing to marriage.
Also, the state’s cultural emphasis on independence and career aspirations encourages many to postpone marriage.
The prevalence of cohabitation also plays a significant role, as couples increasingly opt for long-term partnerships without formalizing their relationships through marriage.
9: New Hampshire
New Hampshire ranks low in marriage rates, with only 43.3% of households led by married couples. Economic factors significantly influence this trend as many young adults prioritize education and career advancement before marriage.
The state’s high cost of living encourages individuals to seek financial stability first. Also, changing social dynamics, including a focus on personal freedom and cohabitation, contribute to delayed marriage.
Outdoor activities and a strong sense of community also lead many to find fulfillment outside traditional marriage structures.
10: Kansas
Kansas shows a marriage rate of 45.5%, reflecting a mix of cultural and economic influences. Many young adults in Kansas prioritize education and career development, leading them to delay marriage.
Rural lifestyles often promote independence, with a focus on personal aspirations over traditional nuptials.
Economic factors, such as job availability and cost of living, further contribute to this trend. Kansas also experiences a strong community spirit, allowing individuals to find fulfilling relationships outside the confines of marriage.
10 States Americans Least Likely to Get Married
Marriage rates in the United States are influenced by various factors, including culture, economic conditions, education levels, and personal priorities. In certain states, these factors combine in ways that lead to lower marriage rates.
Here’s a look at 10 states where Americans are least likely to get married:
1: Georgia
Georgia features one of the higher marriage rates in the nation, with 48.8% of households led by married couples.
This state reflects strong cultural traditions emphasizing family values and community engagement. Many residents prioritize marriage at younger ages, influenced by local customs and support systems.
Economic factors also play a role; job growth in urban areas like Atlanta attracts young couples looking to settle down.
Furthermore, Georgia’s relatively low cost of living fosters financial stability, making marriage a more feasible option for many.
2: Connecticut
Connecticut ranks as one of the states where Americans are less likely to get married, with only 46.5% of households led by married couples.
Factors influencing this trend include a high cost of living, which often leads young adults to prioritize career and financial stability before marriage.
Also, societal shifts emphasize personal achievement and cohabitation over traditional marriage. The state’s educated population tends to focus on long-term relationships without formalizing them through marriage, reflecting broader national trends in marital habits.
3: Maryland
Maryland shows a marriage rate of only 43.9%, indicating a trend similar to other states with low marriage rates. Many young adults in Maryland prioritize education and career, often delaying marriage until they’ve achieved financial stability.
This state’s high cost of living also influences decisions, as residents tend to focus on long-term financial plans before formalizing relationships.
Also, urban areas like Baltimore promote diverse lifestyles, allowing individuals to find fulfillment outside of traditional marriage, further contributing to the decline in marriage rates.
4: Illinois
Illinois shows a marriage rate of only 44.1%, reflecting ongoing shifts in societal values. Young adults increasingly prioritize career advancement, leading to delayed marriage as they seek financial stability first.
Urban centers like Chicago attract diverse populations, allowing for various lifestyle choices, including cohabitation without marriage.
Also, factors such as high living costs and a focus on personal values contribute to the trend of couples forming long-term partnerships outside traditional marriage structures. These evolving patterns underscore Illinois’ place among states with lower marriage rates.
5: New Mexico
New Mexico has a marriage rate of only 43.4%, reflecting significant trends in the state’s demographics. Young adults in New Mexico often prioritize education and job opportunities, leading many to delay marriage.
Economic factors, including lower job availability and income disparities, also contribute to this rate. Also, cultural diversity in the state encourages different relationship models, with many opting for cohabitation instead of formal marriage.
The state’s unique lifestyle and priorities influence individuals’ decisions to focus on personal growth before settling down.
6: Louisiana
Louisiana shows a marriage rate of only 44.5%, reflecting a blend of cultural traditions and economic challenges. Many young adults in Louisiana prioritize career advancement and education, leading them to postpone marriage.
Also, the state’s unique culture emphasizes strong family ties and community, with many seeking fulfillment through close relationships outside of formal marriage.
Economic factors, such as job availability and varying household incomes, further influence decisions around marriage, highlighting the evolving views on relationships within the state.
7: Massachusetts
Massachusetts shows a marriage rate of only 46.8%, reflecting changing societal trends. Many young adults in the state prioritize education and career advancement, often delaying marriage until they’ve achieved financial stability.
Urban areas like Boston offer diverse opportunities, attracting individuals focused on personal growth. High living costs in Massachusetts also contribute significantly, leading residents to explore alternative relationship models.
Individuals often choose cohabitation over formal marriage, mirroring national patterns of evolving relationship preferences among younger generations.
8: California
California shows a marriage rate of only 43.5%, illustrating a significant trend among its residents. Many young adults prioritize education and career opportunities, delaying marriage until they feel financially stable.
The state’s diverse culture promotes alternative relationship models, with many choosing cohabitation over traditional marriage.
High living costs, especially in urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, also lead individuals to focus on personal growth before committing.
Also, a strong emphasis on individualism affects marriage views, encouraging partnerships based on mutual goals rather than formal ties.
9: Rhode Island
Rhode Island has a marriage rate of only 45.6%, reflecting shifting social norms and economic factors. Young adults there often prioritize education and career advancement, causing delays in marriage.
The state’s high cost of living leads many to seek financial stability before tying the knot. Also, cultural influences encourage partnerships that don’t necessarily require formal marriage, with many opting for cohabitation instead.
This trend mirrors broader national patterns as Rhode Island residents balance personal aspirations with evolving relationship models.
10: New York
New York shows a marriage rate of only 46.4%, reflecting a blend of cultural diversity and economic challenges. Residents often prioritize career and education before marriage, leading to later commitments.
The high cost of living in urban areas, particularly New York City, influences young adults to seek financial stability first.
Also, many New Yorkers value personal freedom and cohabitation, showcasing a shift in traditional relationship models.
This trend aligns with broader national patterns, where individuals focus on personal growth and alternative partnerships over formal marriages.
Alicia Richards