It’s no surprise that the overall cost of living in Canada has been high following the pandemic. So, many people are rethinking major life decisions around things like marriage and kids given the possible future of the economy.
Whether you are thinking of buying a house (is it even possible with rent being so high?), purchasing a brand new car or even getting married and having kids, these are just some of the factors taken into consideration in a recent study by eharmony’s Dating Diaries report.
See also: Almost half of millennials say weddings, baby showers, are hurting them financially.
According to the data, Canadians are taking into account “the looming threat of recession” when it comes to marriage and kids.
The study details that around 17 per cent of couples have chosen to postpone their engagements, while 15 per cent of couples reported that they delayed a wedding.
In terms of starting a family, more than half of Canadian Gen Zers and millennials who are in relationships said they’re open to having kids, while 37 per cent are undecided or don’t want kids in the future. Meanwhile, fifty per cent of single Canadians who don’t want kids see financial circumstances as a barrier.
“The decision to have a child is deeply complex,” eharmony relationship expert Minaa B. tells Narcity. “Folks who are already coupled might be facing the realization of all that comes with parenting such as time, energy, resources, finances and most importantly, stability.”
Related: Some millennials and Gen Zers are going into debt from dating?
What else does the eharmony Dating Diaries report say?
When it comes to choosing the right job, around 47 per cent of singles would change their job for an employer with better benefits, such as fertility treatments and childcare.
The survey also explored the work/life balance of Gen Zers and millennials, considering factors such as workplace flexibility (working from home, travelling with partners) and/or how our relationships towards work have changed.
See also: What is ‘quiet thriving’ – and why should you try it in the workplace?
According to the report, 18 per cent of those who work at home crave more social interaction than those who work onsite. Plus, twenty-two per cent want to travel or live away from home, while more than half say they feel burnt out by their jobs and 45 per cent say that they want to put more energy towards personal passions.
The survey also broke down crushes at work and sex life in 2023. To find out more, you can check out the full report here.
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