A growing number of American adults are choosing — or finding themselves — single for life. According to new research from the Pew Research Center, nearly one in four unpartnered adults may never marry or live with a romantic partner.

Between 1990 and 2019, the share of single adults ages 25–54 climbed by almost 10 percentage points, while the percentage who have never married nearly doubled. This shift reflects not just personal choice but also wider economic and cultural forces reshaping modern relationships.

While single life often brings greater freedom and self-reliance, the study notes that unpartnered adults tend to face economic and social disadvantages. They generally earn less, are less likely to hold a college degree, and are more likely to live with their parents — especially men. For instance, 31% of single men and 24% of single women now live with their parents.

Researchers suggest that changing gender roles, rising living costs, and shifting social values are driving this new relationship landscape — one where partnership is no longer the default path to adulthood.

📚 Source: Fry, R., & Parker, K. (2021). Rising Share of U.S. Adults Are Living Without a Spouse or Partner. Pew Research Center.

Credit: Science Explorist