An increasing number of women in the United States are choosing to live alone following divorce or the loss of a spouse. This shift reflects deeper changes in life expectations and demographic realities—especially among women over 60. And the reasons behind this movement are sometimes surprising.
Women in their sixties are increasingly financially independent. Thanks to long careers, pensions, savings, and Social Security, they are better equipped to adapt and support themselves after widowhood or divorce.
Moreover, in older couples, the role of caregiver often falls to women. Widows or divorced women who have already played that role with a first husband are in no hurry to repeat the experience. Freed from domestic obligations and the emotional labor of a relationship, they associate singlehood with independence and a return to personal autonomy.
Culturally, the social pressure to remarry has declined over the past few decades. Many women now view this phase of life as a time for personal fulfillment—not sacrifice.
The Freedoms They Embrace
Once single again, these women often describe their lives as more open and rich in experience. They are far from sedentary; they travel more, explore new hobbies, maintain strong social circles, and engage in community or volunteer activities—while men of the same age tend to be more homebound when living alone. In fact, travel among single women aged 60 and over is on the rise, often through women’s groups or educational programs. Businesses have taken note and developed travel packages specifically designed for them.
An Economic Force
Alongside this new lifestyle, The Motley Fool, a stock market publication, has noted a surge in financial autonomy among women in their sixties. Recent surveys show that 60 to 71% of women now invest in financial markets—a significant leap compared to previous decades.
Interestingly, women tend to be more cautious and disciplined than men when it comes to investing. They hold onto their assets longer and are more likely to seek professional advice. Studies show that this steady approach often leads to better long-term returns.
One in four women between the ages of 65 and 74 is still professionally active in the U.S. Many work part-time, freelance, or launch their own ventures after a first career, making use of the time they now have. This impact is notable in a country facing demographic aging.
These women also represent a powerful driving force in the leisure and wellness industries—two sectors experiencing rapid growth.
A Visible Reality in Florida
In Florida, where the senior population is especially large, this reality is particularly evident. It’s estimated that the state has over 125,000 women aged 65 and older who have never been married, and hundreds of thousands more who are divorced or widowed—amounting to roughly 9% of the population.
In short, this trend of not remarrying reflects a cultural and economic shift whose influence remains underestimated. In 2021, the life expectancy for women in Florida was 79.3 years.
