Top Countries with the Youngest First Relationships

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Top Countries with the Earliest First Romantic Experiences in 2025

Sweden Leads the World in Early Romantic Encounters

In 2025, Sweden remains the country where teenagers typically find their first romantic relationship at the age of just 14.5. A combination of progressive social attitudes, comprehensive sex education, and a culture that encourages open conversations about relationships contribute to this early start. Swedish youth are often introduced to relationship dynamics in school, which may influence this low average age.

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Neighboring Norway and Germany Follow Closely Behind

Norway clocks in with an average age of 15, slightly ahead of Germany at 15.2. Both countries share similarities such as high levels of gender equality and open dialogue about sexuality, fostering earlier relationship experiences among teens.

Western European Countries Show Slight Variations in Dating Age

France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom have average ages of 15.4, 15.5, and 15.6 respectively. Factors like cultural norms, peer influence, and media play roles in shaping how early teenagers get involved romantically. European nations tend to promote open communication, which might lead to earlier experiences.

Finland and the United States: Slight Differences in Age

In 2025, Finland’s teens start dating at about 15.7, while in the United States it’s slightly higher at 16.0. American teens are often influenced by diverse social environments and varying school curricula that may delay or accelerate dating experiences.

Canada, Australia, and New Zealand: A Gradual Increase

The average age climbs slightly in these countries—Canada at 16.2, Australia at 16.3, and New Zealand at 16.4. This trend reflects broader societal shifts toward valuing emotional maturity and especially the importance of education and career planning during adolescence.

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Central and Southern European Trends

Belgium and Switzerland sit at 16.5 and 16.6, indicating a local emphasis on personal development and cautious social norms. Italy and Spain follow closely behind, with averages of 16.8 and 17.0, respectively, reflecting more traditional attitudes toward youth and relationships.

From Eastern Europe to Asia: The Spread of Dating Ages

Eastern European countries such as Poland (17.4), the Czech Republic (17.3), and Slovakia (17.9) show slightly later dating ages. Meanwhile, Asian nations like Japan (~17.5), Korea (~18.0), and increasingly India (~18.5) reveal a trend toward later relationship initiation, influenced by cultural expectations, family involvement, and education focus.

Latin America and Africa: Notable Increases in Age of First Relationships

Brazil (~18.8), Colombia (~18.9), and South Africa (~19.0) show that economic factors and societal norms contribute to later first relationships. In Africa, countries like Nigeria (~20.6) and Egypt (~21.2) report even higher averages, owing to cultural attitudes that prioritize family stability and traditional values.

The Middle East’s Conservative Timeline

Saudi Arabia (21.0) and Egypt (21.2) rank among the highest ages for starting romantic relationships. Religion, strict social codes, and family influence are key factors in delaying teen romantic engagement in these regions.

Asia’s Expanding Horizons

The United Arab Emirates (~21.5) and Iran (~21.7) have similar patterns, with social norms and conservative expectations shaping teenage relationship timelines. However, urban areas and modern influences are beginning to shift some of these norms.

Summary of Global Trends

The earliest ages are mostly found in Scandinavian countries, with ages dropping as low as 14.5 in Sweden.
Southern and Eastern European countries tend to see slightly later ages, generally between 16 and 17.
Asia and Africa show mean ages from 18 to over 21, influenced heavily by cultural, religious, and societal norms.
The global average for first romantic relationships hovers around 16 to 17 years old but varies widely based on regional factors.

Image showing a map of the world with countries colored by average dating age

Final Thoughts

This 2025 ranking illustrates how cultural norms, educational systems, and societal values influence when teenagers often start exploring romantic relationships. While some regions encourage early experiences, others promote delayed engagement to emphasize maturity or family values. As society continues to evolve, these ages might shift, reflecting changing norms, technology influence, and evolving attitudes on youth and love.

Note: Data compiled from sources including the World Health Organization, UNICEF, Pew Research, and academic studies, among others. For the most recent figures, consult these organizations’ websites.