Gen Z Driving Surge in Prenuptial Agreements Amid Shifting Attitudes Toward Marriage and Divorce

Prenuptial agreements are experiencing a significant uptick in popularity, particularly among individuals born between 1997 and 2012, according to matrimonial law practitioners. Data from multiple law firms across urban centers—including New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago—indicate that prenup inquiries from clients under 30 rose by 40% between 2024 and 2025. This trend reflects a broader societal shift where financial transparency and personal autonomy are prioritized before marriage. The decline in stigma surrounding divorce has played a pivotal role in this change. With nearly 45% of Gen Z adults citing financial independence as a core value—up from 29% among Millennials—many view prenuptial agreements not as a sign of mistrust but as a pragmatic step toward equitable partnership. Legal professionals note that these agreements now commonly address not only asset division but also digital property, inheritance rights, and spousal support in the event of separation. In 2025, prenup filings in U.S. family courts increased by 22% compared to the prior year, with a notable 38% of all new filings originating from couples where at least one partner was under 30. This shift is especially pronounced in high-cost metropolitan areas where real estate and investment portfolios are often involved. A recent survey of 1,200 Gen Z individuals revealed that 67% believe prenups make long-term relationships stronger by clarifying expectations early. The rise in prenup usage is also influencing legal services and financial advisory firms, which now offer bundled marriage planning packages including estate planning, credit reviews, and prenup drafting. Financial institutions are adapting by integrating prenup discussions into premarital financial counseling programs, particularly targeting millennial and Gen Z clients with student loan debt and early-career investments.