Tyler Williams

INFO 3402

6 May 2024

Final Project

Title: Exploring Marriage and Rent Trends in the US

Societies are complex systems that cover up fascinating trends. An example of

one of these societal trends in the United States starts with understanding the

relationship between marriage and rent. At first glance, these two aspects may seem

unrelated, but diving deeper into the data paints a fascinating story of socio-economic

dynamics. In this essay, we'll journey through data visualizations to unravel the

mysteries behind marriage timing and rent costs across different states.
 Tyler Williams

INFO 3402

6 May 2024

Final Project

The bar chart above showcases the median age at first marriage for both women

and men in each state. As we glance at the chart, one thing is clear: men tend to marry

later than women across the board. But why is this the case? I began to form my own

theories and then realized it was probably best to draw from a website article.

Research from Nepal talks more on the gender gap in marriage timing by

highlighting the influence of societal attitudes, particularly regarding the appropriate age

for marriage. These attitudes play a crucial role in shaping individuals’ decisions about

when to marry. Timing attitudes, as defined by researchers, cover the expectations for

the age range for various life events, including marriage. For instance, individuals who

value older ages at marriage are more likely to marry later in life, while those who

endorse younger ages are inclined to marry earlier. Parents’ attitudes play a significant

role in influencing their children’s marriage decisions. Children often internalize their

parents’ beliefs and may feel compelled to align their behavior with parental

expectations, driven by respect, affection, or the fear of causing shame or

disappointment. In particular, sons are viewed as carrying on the family line and

inheriting family wealth, making their marriages pivotal for the family’s continuity and

well-being. The expectation of women influenced by societal norms surrounding virginity

and childbearing, emphasizes the effect of timing.

In addition to societal attitudes, biological factors also contribute to the gender

gap in marriage timing, with women being ready for marriage earlier due to biological

and emotional readiness. Scientifically, women typically experience puberty and reach
 Tyler Williams

INFO 3402

6 May 2024

Final Project

reproductive maturity earlier than men, leading to earlier physical readiness for

marriage. In addition to the biological aspect, studies have shown that women tend to

mature emotionally sooner than men, which can also manifest a readiness for

committed relationships. Conversely, men tend to be immature during these formative

years. This biological and emotional asymmetry further reinforces societal norms that

endorse earlier marriage for women.

The correlation coefficient of 0.388 indicates a strong positive correlation

between median gross rent and the median age at first marriage for males, emphasizing
 Tyler Williams

INFO 3402

6 May 2024

Final Project

the significance of this relationship. This positive correlation represents the economic

aspect of marriage timing, suggesting that as males age and potentially earn higher

incomes, they are more likely to afford higher rent, thus delaying marriage. Conversely,

younger males, in the earlier stages of their careers and earning lower incomes, opt for

more affordable housing options, reflecting a correlation between financial stability and

marital decisions.

The data from the scatterplot further suggests that the affordability of housing

plays an important role in the timing of marriage for males. Higher median gross rent

may serve as a barrier to marriage for younger individuals who may not have reached a
 Tyler Williams

INFO 3402

6 May 2024

Final Project

sufficient level of financial stability to comfortably afford marriage-related expenses.

When looking into state-level data and examining the relationship further more

assumptions can be made. For instance, states such as the District of Columbia and

California stand out with higher median ages at first marriage for males, accompanied

by higher median gross rents. This hints at the presence of regional socio-economic

influences shaping marriage trends. In these states, the higher cost of living and

potentially greater career opportunities may contribute to delayed marriage among men

as they prioritize financial stability and career advancement before tying the knot.
 Tyler Williams

INFO 3402

6 May 2024

Final Project

On the other hand, states like Utah, known for its strong cultural values and

close-knit communities, present a contrasting picture. This scatterplot shows younger

median ages at first marriage for men along with lower median gross rents. This reflects

the unique cultural dynamics at play, where traditional values including family and

community may lead to earlier marriage despite relatively lower housing costs. Utah

exerts strong cultural expectations and among that family bonds that pressure young

individuals to marry at a young age.

Another inference made using this visualization is the diversity of experiences

across different states. This shows that the change in cultural norms, community values,

and economics contribute to distinct patterns in marriage timing. Recognizing the

complex interplay between these various factors, we can better design policies that

support diverse communities.

 Tyler Williams

INFO 3402

6 May 2024

Final Project

This visualization mirrors the previous one but focuses on females. I recognize

an intriguing trend in the middle and southeast states, where the gap between states

appears to narrow compared to the male data. This may suggest that women may be

more influenced by regional trends in marriage timing, leading to a more uniform

distribution of marriage ages across different states. Research does indicate that

women’s decisions regarding marriage are often heavily influenced by societal norms

and expectations.

In addition, a closer look at thhe data reveals a clear economic issue present

across several states, including California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Colorado,

 Tyler Williams

INFO 3402

6 May 2024

Final Project

Washington, New Jersey, and Maryland. In these states, the median rent income

exceeds $1600, presenting a significant financial barrier to marriage. The high cost of

living, particularly in terms of housing expenses, makes it exceedingly difficult for

individuals, especially women, to afford marriage. Soaring housing prices and stagnant

wages can delay marriage or even deter individuals from getting married altogether.

This highlights the dependency of economic conditions and marriage trends.

Addressing these economic issues requires comprehensive policies aimed at improving

housing affordability, increasing economic opportunities, and reducing income inequality

to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to pursue relationships.

In conclusion, these visualizations give us a good idea of how marriage and rent

are connected in the United States. Just because two things seem linked doesn’t mean

one causes the other. Things like money, culture, and where you live all mix together to

decide when people get married and where they live. It’s like putting together a big

puzzle! Understanding all these pieces helps people who create solutions and those

who study society to make things better for everyone. Let’s keep looking, learning, and

asking questions about the things that make our world what it is!
 Tyler Williams

INFO 3402

6 May 2024

Final Project

References

Allendorf, Keera, et al. “Early Women, Late Men: Timing Attitudes and Gender Differences

in Marriage.” Journal of Marriage and the Family, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct.

2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5679473/.