Single women are significantly happier than single men, according to a new study from the University of Toronto’s Department of Psychology.
Researchers analyzed data from nearly 6,000 adults, measuring four key areas: satisfaction with relationship status, overall life satisfaction, sexual fulfillment and desire for a partner. Across every category, women who were single reported higher well-being than single men.
“From here, we can begin to understand why exactly single women are doing better than single men,” said lead author Elaine Hoan, a Ph.D. candidate in psychology. “And how everyone can balance these elements to build their best lives.”
The study suggests that men have more to gain from romantic partnerships than women. Hoan noted that men often struggle with traditional masculinity, where singlehood can be seen as a failure to secure a partner — something still tied to social status in many circles.
The researchers also pointed to previous studies showing women take on a disproportionate share of emotional and domestic labor in relationships. Hoan believes that may explain why single women, with more autonomy and less pressure to manage others’ needs, report greater overall fulfillment.
Other than getting rid of the outdated “lonely womnn with cats” narrative, Hoan said the results could help contextualize discontent among some single men, including those who adopt “incel” ideology, a subculture marked by misogyny and resentment toward women.
For many women, who feel pressure from friends, family and community to get married quickly, the study provides a different kind of encouragement: choosing to remain single may not be a waiting room — it might be the healthier option.
“If you want to stay single,” Hoan said, “you may be happier for it.”
