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EngageWomen, Money, & Relationships

Women control more than one-third of all U.S. household financial assets, a share that is likely to grow significantly in the years ahead. This trend has been occurring for decades as women continue to earn higher incomes, becoming the sole financial decision-makers in their households.

Significant research has been conducted on women and their finances. We expand this by researching women and their money through the lens of their relationship status. This research provides insights on how working with a financial professional may ultimately lead to healthier financial behaviors and outcomes.

Key Findings

In 2023, Equitable commissioned an online survey of 1,202 U.S. women and 500 men to better understand and measure their attitudes and behaviors when engaging with their finances. Quotas ensured a representative cross-section of the U.S. population of women across relationship statuses (single, married/partnered, divorced, widowed) to understand the differences that exist between those who are coupled and uncoupled as they age. For the purposes of this study, those labeled as single are those who have never been married or are not in a long-term partnership, and those who are labeled as married also include those who are in long-term committed partnerships.

This study found demonstrable financial and attitudinal differences not only between men and women, but also among women with varied relationship statuses.

1

Women are more motivated by their immediate financial needs, focusing on the near term when compared to men, but relationship status impacts if and how women engage in longer-term planning.

2

Women are consistently stressed about managing their finances and their current state as compared to men; however, married women feel more positively about their finances, are more engaged, and are looking for even more involvement.

3

Women’s participation in financial decision-making increases gradually over the course of their lives; however, there are specific pivot points that spark increased involvement in their finances.

4

Women working with a financial professional are in a significantly better place financially, with more focus on long-term financial goals, higher levels of engagement, and more positive connections to managing their finances.

Women, money,<br/>and relationships

Women, money,
and relationships

When it comes to financial goals, women place their attention on their current situation, making sure they are covered financially for the next day, week, or month. They focus more on having enough for unexpected expenses — and to get by.

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Taking the Reins

Taking the Reins

While women are more likely than ever to be managing their own financial lives, they face a unique set of challenges. But by getting engaged and educated, they can build confidence and competence— and ultimately create stronger, more secure futures.

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