Americans More Likely to Say Parents Should Marry

A new Gallup poll found that 39% of Americans say it is very important for a couple to be legally married if they have a child together, up 10 percentage points from 2020 and returning to its 2013 level. In contrast, views on the importance of marriage for couples who simply plan to spend their lives together remained largely unchanged at 37%. While majorities still consider marriage at least somewhat important in both situations, the findings suggest Americans increasingly view marriage as more significant when children are involved than when it is solely about a long-term relationship.

The research reflects evolving attitudes toward family structure while highlighting the continued importance many Americans place on stability for children. Family service organizations, financial institutions, insurance providers, healthcare organizations and brands that market to families can use these insights to better understand changing consumer values and tailor messaging that resonates with parents and households across different life stages.