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SALT LAKE CITY — Though they aren't rushing to the altar, Americans are romantics.
According to a Pew Research Center Survey, the marriage rate in the U.S. is at its lowest ever. Only 51 percent were bound by matrimony in 2011. The notion of marrying for love, however, is very important to 93 percent of married people and 84 percent of unmarrieds say the same.
Though the nation's marriage rate is low, marriage remains a life goal for many. Of men and women who have never married, 61 percent say they would like to, 12 percent do not want to and 27 percent are unsure of their desires.
"Marriage now has more competition from other lifestyles, such as living alone or living with an unmarried partner," Pew offered as an explanation. "A rising share of births are to mothers who are not married, meaning that marriage is no longer seen by many as the only gateway to parenthood. "
Pew said education and a career are other reasons for postponing marriage. Most people though, about nine-in-10, will be married by age 45.
"About half or more (of people) think there is no difference between being married or single in the ease of having a fulfilling sex life, being financially secure, finding happiness, getting ahead in a career or having social status," Pew said.
People answered differently about raising a family, with 77 percent of respondents saying it is easier for a married couple than a single person to do so.
About 28 percent of Americans believe in the idea of a soul mate. Men are more likely to believe that notion than women. Still, the large majority of people do not believe in one true love.
