Survey Reveals 40% of Singaporeans in Their 20s Have Never Dated, Prioritizing Career and Financial Stability

SINGAPORE: A recent survey conducted by the Singapore Institute of Policy Studies in collaboration with the National Youth Council has highlighted a notable trend among local youth. The six-year longitudinal study, which surveyed approximately 3,000 individuals aged between 17 and 24, found that around 40% of young people in their 20s have never been in a relationship.

Completed in 2022, the survey reveals a significant shift in priorities among Singapore’s youth, with health, career aspirations, and financial stability now taking precedence over dating and marriage.

While dating is perceived as a lower priority, the top barriers to forming relationships include “not having met the right person yet” and “finding dating stressful in terms of expenses and expectations.”

Despite these challenges, the majority of respondents reported having reliable support systems, with 85% indicating they had people to turn to for problem-solving and 88% having someone to seek advice from on important decisions. Furthermore, 83% expressed that their interactions with others encouraged them to step out of their comfort zones and try new experiences.

This trend of limited cross-gender interaction among young people may have broader implications for Singapore’s demographic landscape. The country has been facing persistently low birth rates, a situation further complicated by high living costs and the demanding nature of professional life.

The data from this survey suggests that the reluctance or inability to engage in romantic relationships could contribute to the nation’s declining fertility rates. The findings underscore the need for a deeper understanding of the barriers faced by young people in forming romantic connections. Addressing these issues could be crucial in reversing the trend and enhancing the country’s demographic balance.