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Gen Z still believe in marriage, but on their own terms

Gen Z still believe in marriage, but on their own terms

New research reveals Gen Z are redefining marriage, delaying it and ditching traditional expectations

Midsection of young bride exchanging wedding ring with groom while holding hands during ceremony at sunset

MadeForMums

Published: April 28, 2026 at 10:07 AM

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New research suggests that while marriage is still very much on the cards for Gen Z, the way they approach it looks very different from previous generations.

A survey of 764 Gen Z adults by 77 Diamonds found that nearly three quarters expect to get married one day, but not because they feel they have to. Instead, it is increasingly seen as a personal choice, something to opt into rather than a life milestone to tick off.

And for parents raising the next generation, it offers an early glimpse into how attitudes to love, family and commitment are continuing to evolve.

Marriage is still popular, but no longer essential

The research found that 72% of Gen Z expect to marry at some point. However, there is a noticeable shift in how important that feels.

While 57% say marriage matters to them personally, a significant 43% say it does not ultimately matter whether they marry or not. This signals a move away from the idea that marriage is a necessary step in adult life.

Instead, it sits alongside other valid ways of building a life and a relationship.

Love, not tradition, is driving decisions

When asked about the reasons for getting married, emotional commitment came out top, cited by 26% of respondents.

Other motivations included the chance to celebrate with a wedding (19%) and legal or security benefits (16%). Starting a family ranked lower at 15%, while financial stability came in at 12%.

Traditional influences barely registered. Just 4% said social or family expectations played a role, and only 2% pointed to religion.

This marks a clear generational shift, with marriage becoming less about external pressures and more about personal meaning.

Why Gen Z are waiting longer

If Gen Z do plan to marry, they are not rushing into it. The most popular age range for tying the knot is between 31 and 35, chosen by 42% of respondents. A further 33% expect to marry between 26 and 30.

Very few see early marriage as ideal. Only 4% think getting married at 25 or younger is the right timing, while 10% would prefer to wait until after 40.

This slower approach reflects broader life changes, including career building, financial stability and finding the right partner.

Marriage and children are no longer linked

Another major shift is how Gen Z view marriage in relation to family life.

A striking 83% say it is not important to be married before having children. Meanwhile, 67% believe long-term unmarried relationships are just as valid as married ones.

That said, one third still see marriage as the ideal structure for a long-term partnership, showing that while attitudes are changing, the institution still holds meaning for many.

The barriers putting Gen Z off

Despite largely positive views, there are some clear concerns around marriage.

The biggest barrier is cost, with 26% citing the expense of weddings as a key issue. This is followed by worries about divorce (16%) and the perception that some traditions feel outdated (14%).

Other concerns include financial risk and social pressure, both at 11%, as well as legal complications at 10%.

Together, these factors may help explain why many are choosing to delay marriage or approach it more cautiously.

A more intentional approach to commitment

Tobias Kormind, co-founder of 77 Diamonds, says the findings reflect a broader cultural shift towards more intentional relationships.

Today, people are more empowered than ever to shape their lives and relationships in ways that feel authentic to them. It is encouraging to see that marriage is no longer something entered into out of obligation, but chosen freely and thoughtfully.

Tobias Kormind, co-founder of 77 Diamonds

He adds that while fewer people feel pressured into marriage, it may actually make the commitment more meaningful for those who do choose it.

"At the same time, for those who do choose to marry, the meaning of that moment has only deepened. When two people decide to make that commitment, it is a conscious and heartfelt expression of their bond. There is a quiet beauty in that decision, a recognition of love that is not assumed or expected, but truly chosen.”

For today’s parents, this shift could shape how future generations view relationships, offering more flexibility, less pressure and a wider definition of what a happy family life looks like.

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