The ‘Perfect’ age to get married according to the 37% Rule

The “37% Rule” is a mathematical principle that offers insight into the ideal age to make major life decisions, including marriage. It comes from a field of mathematics known as optimal stopping theory, which helps determine the best time to act when faced with a series of choices.

In the context of marriage, the rule suggests that the best time to settle down is after you’ve evaluated 37% of your available options. The idea is that by this point, you’ve gained enough experience to make a well-informed decision, but you still have enough time left to act on that decision.

Applying the Rule to Marriage Timing

Let’s assume:

You begin dating seriously around age 18

You aim to be married by age 40

That gives you a 22-year dating window. According to the 37% Rule:

37% of 22 years is approximately 8.1 years

18 + 8.1 = around age 26 or 27

So, based on this logic, the optimal age to get married would be around 26 to 27 years old. By this age, you’ve likely dated enough to understand what you’re looking for in a long-term partner and still have time to choose wisely.

Important Considerations
While the 37% Rule provides a rational framework, there are several factors it does not account for:

Personal maturity: People develop at different rates. Some may be ready earlier or much later than the age suggested.

Emotional readiness: Marriage is not just a logical decision. Emotional connection and timing matter significantly.

Cultural and societal expectations: In many places, traditions and economic realities play a major role in when people get married.

Life circumstances: Career paths, education, health, and other commitments may delay or accelerate marriage timing.

Final Thoughts
The 37% Rule is best seen as a guideline rather than a rigid rule. It encourages people to gain sufficient experience and self-awareness before making a lifelong commitment. If you’re past the 26–27 mark, it doesn’t mean you’ve missed your chance. What truly matters is making the decision at a time when you feel emotionally, mentally, and practically ready.

In summary, while mathematics suggests that the ideal age to marry is around 26 to 27, the perfect age is ultimately the one that fits your personal journey and growth.