Women value marriage less than men

Modern British women are fast becoming more independent than their male counterparts, especially when it comes to leaving home and getting married, according to research from Cater Allen.

Indeed the research found that more men are still living at home with their parents than their female counterparts, with more than half a million more adult males (2.29 million), compared to females (1.6 million).

Interestingly women are also less concerned about marriage than men, with only 54 per cent stating that marriage is essential to their happiness in life - compared to 56 per cent of men. Furthermore 25 per cent of women feel able to live a happy single life - compared to 22 per cent of men.

The desire amongst women to be financially self-sufficient is clear too, with 20 per cent striving for this. This desire increases with each generation. 23 per cent of 18-24 year old women want to be ‘completely self-sufficient' compared with 21 per cent 25-34 year olds and just 18 per cent of 35-44 year olds. Only one per cent of 18-24 year old women believe their partner should provide the entire income for the household, compared with five per cent of 25-34 year olds.

Sally Watts, Head of Marketing of Cater Allen, commented: "It seems that not only are young women leaving home sooner, but they are less worried about getting married than men too.

"This is a reflection of the increased wealth, influence and financial independence of women, which is evidenced by the take up of Cater Allen's private banking services. The fastest growing demographic in our customer base is women. And as women become increasingly financially independent and wealthy, we expect to see more women opting for private banking services."

Unlike most traditional private banks, Cater Allen offers more ‘inclusive' banking that requires a minimum cash deposit of just £5,000, but offers access to the superior service associated with a private bank.