Finns’ relationship status linked to education levels, new report reveals

The relationship status of Finns is closely linked to their level of education. According to a recent Family Barometer report, only 36% of individuals aged 30-79 who have completed only basic education are in a relationship. In contrast, about 75% of those with vocational training or lower tertiary education are in relationships, while this figure rises to 83% among those with higher education degrees. Researcher Tiia Sorsa from the Population Research Institute highlights the significance of these findings, which underscore social inequalities among different education groups.

“Looking at the differences between educational groups regarding who is in a relationship and who is not reveals a vast gap. However, there is not a significant difference in the desire for a relationship between those with only basic education and those with higher education,” Sorsa pointed out.

Approximately 80% of individuals living without a partner hope to find one in the long term, but those with lower education levels seem to struggle more in realizing this aspiration. Anna Rajavuori, an expert on reducing inequalities at the Social Democratic Kalevi Sorsa Foundation, notes that multiple factors contribute to this situation, where cause-and-effect relationships are not always clear.

“Education level, income and wealth, as well as personal health experiences, are interconnected. Conversely, being in a relationship can provide a protective factor during unexpected changes in employment or health,” she explained.

When examining respondents in relationships, marriage emerged as the most common relationship type. Among those with only basic education, 18% were married, compared to 60% of those with higher education. Sorsa remarked that education clearly influences the ability to achieve relationship aspirations. Rajavuori also noted increasing risks of social exclusion among younger generations, which previously affected older cohorts more.