Fifty years ago, 85% of husbands earned more than their wives, but today it is about 55%. And almost 30% of opposite-sex marriages today have both spouses earning about the same.
Despite women having a larger role in the workforce nowadays, they still have a disproportionate share of responsibilities at home. In marriages where both spouses earn a similar income, women spend an average of two more hours per week on caregiving and housework than their husbands.
How do people feel about this trend of women earning more than their husbands? Pew Research found that 48% of people would prefer if the husband earned more than their wives. And, only 3% said that men want a wife who make more income than they do.
It’s also important to remember that your contribution to a household is not limited to your paycheck. Raising a child, taking care of elderly parents, and maintaining a home is HARD WORK and just as valuable as getting a paycheck. It is important to acknowledge that value does not always come in the form of money. Make sure to show appreciation for what your partner brings to the table, in whatever form it comes in.
As always, reminding you to build wealth by following the two PFC rules: 1.) Live below your means and 2.) Invest early and often.
-Vivi & Shane
