Prenuptial agreements have long carried a reputation as something only wealthy couples considered or as a sign that a marriage yet to be was already destined for trouble. But that perception is changing quickly, especially among Gen Z couples who seem to be signing prenups much more often than Millennials, Gen Xers, and Baby Boomers. The shift likely reflects changes in financial realities, evolving attitudes about relationships, and increased access to legal information.
Prenups Are No Longer Mysterious
One of the biggest differences between Gen Z and older generations is access to information. Millennials may have been the first generation to turn to the internet with every life question, but Gen Z grew up with instant access to research, legal explanations, and real stories from other couples. Prenuptial agreements used to be something people only talked about in family law offices. Now, they’re openly discussed on social media, in podcasts, and on various forums.
Because prenups are easier to learn about and understand, they no longer feel like mysterious legal documents reserved for celebrities or high-net-worth families. Instead, they’re seen as a practical tool that any couple can use. This normalization has made it easier for couples to bring up the topic without worrying they’re sending the wrong message, too.
Gen Z Doesn’t View Prenups as Predictors of Divorce
Older generations often saw prenups as inherently negative. Baby Boomers and Gen X frequently interpreted them as a sign of mistrust or a lack of commitment. Gen Z, however, tends to see them differently. Rather than viewing prenups as evidence that a relationship is unstable, many in Gen Z see them as part of responsible life planning.
This generation tends to value clear expectations and open communication. Discussing a prenup can actually align with those priorities. To many Gen Z couples, a prenup is simply a conversation about what they want, how they plan to build a stable marriage, and how they prefer to handle money together. It’s less about preparing for divorce and more about reducing conflict, allowing transparency, and protecting both partners if circumstances ever change.
In other words, Gen Z doesn’t see the conversation as a red flag.
Financial Pressures Are Higher Than Ever
Gen Z also faces some of the most challenging financial circumstances in recent history, such as:
- High student loan debt
- Rising housing costs
- Lower rates of traditional job stability
- Increased cost of living
- Difficulty building savings early in adult life
Because financial security is harder to achieve, Gen Z has a natural incentive to protect the assets they do manage to accumulate. That may include inheritances, small businesses, intellectual property, or even savings accounts they worked hard to grow. When money is tight, the idea of losing financial ground in a divorce feels more alarming. In this way, prenups give couples a sense of structure when so much else in the economic landscape feels uncertain.
More People Are Entering Marriage Later
Another factor in the growing trend of prenuptial agreement use could be timing. Younger generations tend to marry later than their parents and grandparents did. The oldest of Gen Z are just under 30 years old, and most of them aren’t married. Go back a few decades, and you would have found that marriage among people in their mid-20s was very common.
On the other hand, by the time Gen Z adults get married, they may already have:
- Established careers
- Investment accounts
- Significant personal savings
- Cars or homes
- Side businesses
- Personal brands or digital assets
When marriage happens after major financial milestones instead of before them, protecting those assets becomes more of a consideration.
Gen Z Is Comfortable Blending Traditional & Modern Values
Gen Z tends to be practical and emotionally aware at the same time. They value love, partnership, and commitment, but they also value independence and fairness. To this generation, a prenup doesn’t cheapen a relationship. Instead, it provides a way to honor each partner’s contributions, dreams, and concerns.
Gen Z is also comfortable challenging the old idea that discussing money is uncomfortable or impolite. Talking openly about finances feels normal for many Gen Z couples, and a prenup fits naturally into that level of transparency.
Prenups Are Becoming Parts of Standard Financial Plans
Finally, Gen Z grew up during a time when financial literacy became more accessible and widely encouraged. They watched their parents experience recessions, housing market crashes, and job instability. They also have unprecedented access to online financial education, either through official courses or forums that contain useful word-of-mouth information from other users.
Many Gen Z adults see a prenup as another piece of responsible planning, similar to budgeting, creating a will, or saving for retirement. It’s not romanticized, and it’s not stigmatized. It’s just a tool for protecting stability during a marriage.
Thinking About a Prenup? Talk to Our Attorneys.
If you’re considering a prenuptial agreement, you’re in good company, at least among Gen Z. Many younger couples see it as a thoughtful, forward-looking step toward a secure future together. At Blood Law, PLLC, in North Carolina and South Carolina, we understand how important it is to approach these conversations with care, honesty, and transparency. Our attorneys would be honored to help you and your soon-to-be spouse understand the benefits of a prenuptial agreement and draft one that works for everyone, if you decide it is right for you.
Call us at (704) 286-0570 to arrange an initial consultation with our prenup lawyers.