New research published in the Journal of Marriage and Family challenges the age-old adage that money can’t buy love, suggesting instead that financial stability may be a key factor in opening people up to romantic relationships. The twin studies, led by professors from the University of Toronto and Carleton University, analyzed data collected from over 4,800 single adults in the United States and Germany. Their findings show that single individuals with higher incomes are not only more likely to desire a relationship, but also feel more prepared for one and, ultimately, are more likely to enter into a partnership (phys.org; University of Toronto news).
The significance of these results resonates far beyond the dating scene. In an age marked by economic uncertainty, soaring living costs, unstable employment, and concerns about the affordability of housing, these findings raise important social and policy questions for countries like Thailand. Thai society, which is increasingly influenced by global trends in youth attitudes, job insecurity, and delayed marriage, can look to this research for insights into its own demographic shifts and evolving views on relationships.
Delving into the details, the research found a consistent association in both studied countries: as income increased, so did the likelihood of positive attitudes toward romantic relationships and the perceived readiness to commit. Importantly, higher income did not make people happier about being single—it simply made them more likely to seek out love. As University of Toronto’s professor in the Department of Psychology explained, “Young people are making rational calculations in unstable economic conditions. People realize they’re not going to be able to enjoy a relationship if they’re working 80 hours a week or if they’re not sure where they’re going to live next year” (University of Toronto news).
Carleton University’s co-author expanded on this, noting that, “People may not want to take the step towards commitment until they have that economic foundation.” This aligns with observations in Thai society, where both men and women are delaying marriage, prioritizing career and financial stability over early family formation—a trend highlighted in local reports and seen in declining birth rates (Bangkok Post).
The “stage of life” theory is central to understanding why more money might not lead to greater fulfillment in singlehood, but could nudge people towards seeking a partner. As the lead author outlined, people tend to build their lives step by step: a reasonable income may empower young adults to live comfortably alone, but may also prompt a transition where they feel that having a partner becomes a desirable and achievable next step. Such reasoning mirrors trends among middle-class Thais who report feeling “ready” to marry only after securing steady work and stable housing—a pragmatic view shaped by the pressures of rising property prices and a highly competitive urban job market (World Bank report).
While these studies focus on income, the authors advocate for future research to explore additional socioeconomic indicators, such as unemployment, debt, and housing costs—factors that are acutely felt in Thailand’s rapidly urbanizing cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Anecdotal reports from Thai social commentators also suggest that many singles hesitate to pursue marriage due to concerns about debt, caregiving responsibilities to aging parents, or the lack of affordable property. As one planner from Thailand’s Ministry of Social Development and Human Security stated, “Financial readiness is one of the most important prerequisites among young people before they consider starting their own family” (Bangkok Post).
When it comes to happiness, the connection between income and contentment with singlehood remains elusive. The studies emphasized that higher earning did not equate to more satisfied singles—contrasting the common perception that money can buy a carefree, independent lifestyle. This finding is particularly relevant as more Thai people, especially in urban centers, embrace single living. As a psychologist from Mahidol University points out, “There is a misconception that financial autonomy guarantees emotional fulfillment, but our research indicates social and emotional needs remain prominent” (Mahidol University Research Highlights).
Globally, nations with rising rates of singlehood and delayed marriage—like Japan, South Korea, and Thailand—face parallel policy challenges. In Thailand, the government has rolled out incentives for marriage and childbirth, but many analysts argue that initiatives addressing underemployment, job insecurity, and affordable housing might be more effective in encouraging family formation. The link between economic security and willingness to engage in long-term relationships, as shown by the new study, signals an urgent need for multidimensional policies that support the younger generation’s aspirations, both financial and emotional.
Culturally, this research interacts with the values of Thai society, where filial duties, group harmony, and the importance of economic preparation for marriage have deep historical roots. In past decades, families in Thailand often provided homes, dowries, or jobs to help offspring marry. Today, with more young people migrating to cities and relying on themselves, individual earning power has replaced family wealth as the primary stepping stone to partnership. This modern twist on traditional values is evident in the way cohabitation and civil unions are becoming more acceptable, especially among urban Thais.
Looking ahead, the authors caution that as the global economy remains volatile, the pressure to achieve financial stability before pursuing serious relationships may continue to rise. For policymakers and educators in Thailand, this means that supporting young people’s financial literacy, expanding stable job opportunities, and improving access to affordable housing must go hand-in-hand with programs that address loneliness and social inclusion. For individuals, the study’s findings offer both reassurance and a challenge: while money alone can’t guarantee love or emotional satisfaction, building a secure foundation may help when it comes to taking the next step towards companionship.
Practically, for Thai readers, this research provides a useful framework for making decisions about timing relationships, focusing not just on emotional readiness but also on economic circumstances. Family members and social planners can also use these findings to better understand the needs and motivations of the younger generation. For those feeling pressure from parents or society to settle down, this study offers data-driven evidence that waiting for greater financial stability is not simply avoidance, but a rational and globally observed response.
For Thailand, these insights can inform not just personal decision-making, but also broader national strategies to address demographic change, social well-being, and the ongoing pursuit of happiness—whether one is single or partnered.
Citations: phys.org, University of Toronto news, Bangkok Post, World Bank Thailand social protection, Mahidol University research highlights.