The financial implications of delayed marriage in SA

SOUTH Africans are putting off getting married until later in life, putting this ceremonial expression of love aside as they are focused on their financial stability, personal growth, and careers. And that's if they are even getting married at all.

- NICOLA MAWSON

A recently released Statistics South Africa research paper noted that the median age for grooms getting married has moved up from 35 to 38 in about a decade. Over the same period, the data showed, brides were getting married at a median — or middle-of-the-range age of 34 instead of 31.

Statistics South Africa noted that, "in modern times, love and commitment are no longer bound by age but by readiness. Across the globe, the traditional timeline for tying the knot is shifting, and South Africa is no exception."

Verona Pillay, client value proposition lead at ASI Financial Services, explained that there are many factors that influence when someone gets married - if at all.

Education and career priorities:

Many individuals, especially women, are prioritising tertiary education and career development, leading to delayed marriages.

Financial readiness:

There is growing awareness of the cost of living, the expense of weddings, and the financial pressures of starting a family.

Emotional maturity:

People want to be more emotionally mature before making a lifelong commitment.

Cultural shifts:

The social pressure to marry young has decreased in many parts of the world, giving people more freedom to choose when (or whether) to marry. Pillay said that love remains central to relationship commitments, although this concept has evolved. "Today's clients seek emotional connections, shared values, mutual respect, and lifestyle compatibility, and not just passion or family approval," she said.

Statistics South Africa's research concurs: "One thing is clear - South Africans are redefining what partnership and commitment mean in modern society."

What is important, said Pillay, is for couples to "balance their hearts with their heads". She added that "financial compatibility often strengthens emotional bonds in the long run".