If you feel that marriage proposals are happening a little later than they used to, you are not mistaken. Millennials and Gen Z are maturing, traveling, studying, building careers, and then walking down the aisle or heading to the city hall. This is not a matter of "hesitation," but a conscious change in priorities and values.
Key points
Younger generations prioritize education, career, and personal development, so they choose to marry at a more mature age.
Financial stability and life experience come before saying "I do," with the goal of a more solid foundation together.
Cohabitation and more liberal attitudes toward relationships reduce the pressure to marry immediately.
What is the "right" age to get married?
There is no right answer—there is your right moment. However, recent trends clearly show that the "average" age limit has shifted: while it used to be common to get married in your early 20s, today we see more "yes"es in your late 20s and early 30s. This shift is being seen internationally and reflects how we live, work, and love.
How the average age of marriage has changed over time
In many countries, a few decades ago, marriage at 22–25 was considered the norm. Today, most couples get married a little later, around 28–30, while marriages after 40 are also on the rise for the first time. At the same time, fewer people are choosing marriage as their default option; many are living together, raising children, or focusing on their careers without rushing to change their marital status.
What does all this mean? More mature decisions, a better understanding of oneself and one's partner, but also a different social rhythm, where marriage is not a "starting line" but a stop on a journey that has already acquired an identity.
Why younger generations are getting married later
First the milestones, then the wedding rings
The logic has been reversed: instead of "building" a life after marriage, many people first put together the puzzle of everyday life—work, home, travel, experiences—and then officially unite their lives. When "togetherness" brings together two complete personal journeys, marriage starts on a more stable footing.
Higher education lasts longer
Studies take time, master's degrees and specializations span years, and academic programs often involve moving or even living abroad. Until this cycle is complete, priorities are different and marriage is naturally postponed until later.
Career and independence
A career is not just a livelihood; it is identity, development, achievement. That is why many choose to establish themselves professionally before making big personal decisions. Once their professional direction is stable, couples can plan with greater peace of mind and realism.
Financial security before saying "I do"
The cost of living, student loans, or career investments affect family planning. Many people wait to pay off debts or reach a level of comfort before getting married and, possibly, having children. It's not procrastination; it's strategy.
Personal growth
The younger generation values "who I am" before "who we are." Therapy, coaching, travel, creative experiences—all help us get to know our desires, set boundaries, and cultivate emotional maturity. Thus, commitment becomes a conscious choice, not a necessity.
More relaxed attitudes toward sex and parenthood
Today, couples do not need to rush into marriage to experience intimacy or think about children. Social norms have relaxed and each couple sets its own pace, without the burden of "what people will say."
Cohabitation as a "dress rehearsal"
Many couples choose to live together before marriage to see how they get along in everyday life—from finances to small household habits. This period often serves as valuable preparation and reduces the pressure to make quick decisions.
They marry for love—not out of necessity
Marriage today is a personal choice and a celebration of connection. Most people wait to find someone who fits their lifestyle and dreams. This means less haste and more intention: "I want to be with you," not "I have to."
Dark-Haired Groom Putting Ring on Blonde Bride’s Left Ring Finger As They Face Each Other in Front of Baby’s Breath Altar
The implications of “later”
More meaning on a personal level
When we come to marriage having achieved goals and gained experience, we feel more confident about who we are and what we want from a relationship. This translates into better communication, clear boundaries, and more mature decisions about life together.
Fewer divorces
The absence of pressure leads to more selective, conscious unions—and often to more resilient marriages. The more self-awareness and joint planning there is, the easier it is for the couple to manage the inevitable difficulties.
Fewer births
When marriage and family planning are postponed, births tend to decline overall. This does not affect all couples in the same way, but it is a broader social trend that we are already seeing in Europe and Greece.
Financial effects
For those who are building a career and securing stability, marrying later can bring better organization of finances and goals. On the other hand, when there are children outside of marriage or a single parent is carrying the burden, the challenges grow—which is why good planning is a valuable ally.
What this means for you as you prepare
If your marriage is coming a little later in life, enjoy it: you have a journey behind you that has taught you who you are. Turn that experience into planning power—set priorities, talk openly about finances, roles, family, careers, dreams. Being "together" has no age; it has quality.
Ultimately, there is no right or wrong timing. There is the day when you feel that your story is ready to wear white. And when that day comes, the "yes" will sound as mature and true as the journey that brought you there.
