A new study suggests that the majority of people don’t meet “their person”—the partner they eventually build a long-term relationship with—until after the age of 30.
Researchers say this marks a noticeable shift from previous generations and is closely tied to changing lifestyles, later career development, and evolving expectations in modern dating.
According to psychologists, individuals in their 30s tend to enter relationships with greater emotional maturity and a much clearer sense of identity. This often translates into healthier boundaries, stronger communication, and a more grounded understanding of what it actually takes to sustain a long-term partnership.
Experts also note that people in their 30s generally have more defined personal and professional goals, which helps them choose partners who align with the future they envision. As a result, relationships formed in this stage of life are not only more stable but often last longer.
The trend reflects a broader cultural shift toward intentional dating, prioritizing compatibility, mutual respect, and emotional safety over rushing into relationships in earlier years.
