When is the right time to tie the knot, start a family, buy a home, or call it a career? These are some of life’s biggest milestones—and people across the U.S. have strong opinions about when they should happen.
A new nationwide survey reveals how Americans are thinking about these decisions. The results reflect changing social values, economic realities, and lifestyle choices. From love and parenting to homeownership and retirement, here’s what the average American believes is the best age for each major milestone.
The Best Age to Get Married
According to the recent study by YouGov and financial planners, most Americans believe the ideal age to get married is between 28 and 30 years.
Many participants said this range offers a good balance between personal growth and relationship maturity. It allows people time to complete their education, explore their early careers, and understand themselves better before committing to marriage.
Interestingly, those aged 18–24 were more likely to say marrying before 25 was ideal, while older generations leaned toward the late 20s and early 30s.
“People want financial and emotional readiness before they say ‘I do’,” said relationship expert Dana Blackwood. “It’s not just about love anymore—it’s about life planning.”
The Ideal Time to Have Children
When asked about the best age to have a child, most Americans said between 27 and 30.
This age range aligns with when many feel more financially secure and emotionally prepared for parenting. It also closely follows the average marriage age, indicating a traditional timeline still resonates with many.
However, younger respondents (especially Gen Z) were more flexible. Some said they’d wait until after 30, while others were open to having kids before marriage.
Factors influencing this opinion include:
- Career goals
- High childcare costs
- Housing affordability
- Delayed marriage rates
When to Buy Your First Home
The dream of owning a home remains strong across generations. Most respondents agreed that 30 to 35 is the ideal time to buy your first home.
This is due to a combination of:
- Rising real estate prices
- The need to build credit and savings
- Delayed financial independence
People in their 20s often feel priced out of the market, especially in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
Yet, many also view homeownership as a sign of adulthood and stability. Despite financial challenges, over 65% of people surveyed still hope to buy a home before turning 40.
The Best Age to Retire
Retirement is a dream—but when is it actually realistic?
Survey respondents said the best age to retire is between 60 and 65. However, economic realities paint a different picture. Many expect to work longer due to:
- Rising living costs
- Healthcare expenses
- Lack of savings
Interestingly, younger people were more optimistic, often saying 55–60 was ideal. But baby boomers said 65–70 was more likely for them, based on their savings and Social Security plans.
Experts agree: planning early is key.
What Influences These Life Milestones?
The age people choose for life goals is influenced by a variety of factors:
- Financial readiness: Most people delay marriage, children, or homeownership due to student loans, housing costs, or job instability.
- Cultural values: Some communities prioritize early marriage and children, while others emphasize education and career.
- Career paths: People in law, medicine, or entrepreneurship often delay marriage and children to focus on career growth.
- Mental health and maturity: Emotional readiness plays a huge role, especially in long-term commitments like marriage and parenting.
Generational Differences in Views
The survey also found clear differences in opinion between age groups:
| Generation | Best Age to Marry | Best Age to Have Kids | Best Age to Buy a Home | Best Age to Retire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gen Z (18–27) | 25–27 | 26–29 | 28–33 | 55–60 |
| Millennials (28–43) | 28–32 | 29–32 | 30–35 | 60–65 |
| Gen X (44–59) | 27–30 | 27–30 | 30–36 | 65–67 |
| Baby Boomers (60–78) | 24–28 | 25–28 | 28–34 | 66–70 |
As seen, the younger generations are more optimistic, while older generations are more practical about financial demands and realities.
Conclusion: No One-Size-Fits-All Answer
While surveys offer insights, the “right” age for marriage, children, buying a home, or retirement is deeply personal.
Some may marry young and thrive; others may wait and feel more prepared. Some never marry or have kids and still live fulfilling lives. Some rent forever. Others retire early thanks to wise investing.
Ultimately, what matters most is personal readiness, planning, and values.
Whether you’re 25 or 55, it’s never too late—or too early—to plan for your goals.
- Best Age to Get Married → Psychology Today: Timing and Marriage
- Best Age to Have a Child → CDC Data on Childbirth Trends
- Buying a Home → Zillow First-Time Buyer Guide
- Retirement Planning → Fidelity Retirement Guidelines
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