Top Countries with the Highest Age at First Marriage

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Countries with the Highest Ages at First Marriage in 2025

Spain Leads with the Longest Wait to Say “I Do”

In 2025, Spain continues to set the global benchmark for delayed marriages, with the average age at first marriage reaching nearly 39 years old. Spaniards are increasingly prioritizing education, careers, and personal growth before tying the knot. The trend reflects shifting cultural norms where marrying later is becoming the norm rather than the exception.

South Korea and the Netherlands Also Near the 37-Year Mark

South Korea and the Netherlands follow closely behind, with median ages at first marriage of 37.0 and 37.6 years, respectively. These countries emphasize higher education and career development, encouraging individuals to postpone marriage. The trend also underscores a broader societal shift towards individualization and personal fulfillment before committing to long-term partnerships.

Argentina, Norway, and Brazil: The Global Leaders in Marital Age

Argentina and Norway, both at 36.8 years, exemplify nations where societal change has fostered later marriages. Brazil is not far behind, with an average marriage age of 35.6. These shifts are influenced by economic factors, evolving gender roles, and urbanization, all contributing to the trend of waiting longer to marry.

Middle Eastern and African Countries Begin to Rise

Countries like South Africa and Costa Rica, with marriage ages around 31 years, are witnessing a steady increase in the age at first marriage. While cultural norms still play a significant role, economic development and increased access to education are gradually changing traditional timelines for tying the knot.

North American and European Union Nations: Approaching 31 Years

The United States, Canada, and several European Union nations, such as Germany and France, have seen the age at first marriage hover around 30 to 31 years. These countries report higher educational attainment and a focus on establishing financial stability before marriage.

Asian Countries Show Varied Trends

Japan and Hong Kong, with marriage ages around 29.5 to 30.6, reflect changing social dynamics where economic considerations are pivotal. While some Asian nations still tilt toward earlier marriage dates, the overall trend suggests a gradual shift toward delaying nuptials.

![Image illustrating a diverse group of young adults discussing future plans, symbolizing the trend of late marriage in 2025.]

Countries with the Earliest Marriages

Comparatively, many countries in Africa and Asia maintain lower average ages, hovering around early to mid-20s. For instance:

Yemen: 23.0 years
Mozambique and Madagascar: 22.8 years
Iran: 24.0 years

These figures highlight the cultural and societal differences where early marriage remains prevalent, often influenced by traditional norms, economic factors, and social structures.

The Impact of Education, Economy, and Gender Equality

The trend of marrying later is linked to several interconnected factors. Increased access to education, especially for women, plays a crucial role. Economic stability is also a significant determinant; individuals are waiting longer to secure careers and financial independence before entering marriage. Furthermore, societal attitudes toward gender roles and personal priorities have evolved, emphasizing self-development alongside or prior to marriage.

Conclusion: The Shift Towards Personal Fulfillment

The 2025 data underscores a global shift towards later marriages, emphasizing individual achievement and stability. Countries like Spain, South Korea, and the Netherlands exemplify this trend, where cultural change, economic development, and gender equality have contributed to increasing age at first marriage. Conversely, traditional societies continue to see earlier marriages, but even these are experiencing gradual shifts with modernization.

Note: Data sourced from the World Population Review and reflects the latest trends as of 2025. The evolving landscape of marriage ages illustrates broader social transformations worldwide.

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