We recently conducted a survey of 3,000 married couples to determine the adoption rate of prenups across the country.

The results are illustrated in the interactive map below:

Key Insights From the Survey

  • Financial Savvy Among Modern Couples: The increasing prevalence of prenups indicates that modern couples are becoming more financially savvy. They recognize the potential complexities and financial pitfalls of marriage and seek to protect their assets proactively.
  • Geographical Variations Reflect Economic Disparities: The significant geographical differences in prenup adoption rates might reflect broader economic disparities and cultural attitudes towards marriage and finances. States like Massachusetts, with higher adoption rates, often have higher living costs and more significant financial assets at stake, prompting couples to secure their financial futures.
  • Mitigating Divorce Debt: The primary reason couples opt for prenups—to avoid divorce drama—highlights a growing awareness of "divorce debt." This term encapsulates not just financial losses but also the emotional and psychological toll of contentious divorces. Prenups can offer a smoother transition, minimizing conflict and financial damage.
  • Security for Personal Savings and Future Planning: With 35% of respondents seeking to protect personal savings, it's clear that individuals value financial independence within marriage. Prenups can provide clarity and security, ensuring that personal and jointly acquired assets are managed fairly in case of a divorce.
  • Challenges in Prenup Discussions: The fact that 35% of couples experienced conflicts when discussing prenups suggests a need for better communication strategies. It underscores the importance of addressing financial expectations and concerns openly before marriage to prevent future misunderstandings.
  • Regret Among Non-Prenup Holders: The 42% regret rate among those without prenups is significant. It indicates that many couples, in hindsight, recognize the value of having a prenup to delineate financial responsibilities and protect their interests.

Methodology

We conducted an online panel survey of 3,000 adults based on age, gender, and geography. Internal data sources were used to obtain population data sets. We used a two-step process to ensure representation through stratified sampling and post-stratification weighting. 

Respondents are carefully chosen from a geographically representative online panel of double-opt-in members. This selection is further tailored to meet the precise criteria required for each unique survey. Throughout the survey, we design questions to screen and authenticate respondents carefully, guaranteeing the survey's alignment with the ideal participants. 

We employ an array of data quality methods to ensure the integrity of our data collection. Alongside conventional measures like digital fingerprinting, bot checks, geo-verification, speeding detection, etc., each response undergoes a thorough review by a dedicated team member to ensure quality and contextual accuracy. Our commitment extends to open-ended responses, subjecting them to scrutiny for gibberish answers and plagiarism detection.