There are also significant racial differences in marriage rates. Among blacks aged 25 and older, 36% have never been married. By contrast, 26% of Hispanics and 16% of whites in the same age group have never been married. The trends also mirror the economic disparities between the groups.
Despite falling marriage rates, however, most Americans still believe that marriage is an important institution. 68% "continue to believe it is important for couples to marry if they plan to spend the rest of their lives together," Pew says.