Marriage in Numbers: What the Stats Say About Intimacy, Satisfaction and the Spark

Marriage is one of the most meaningful commitments two people can make, but staying connected emotionally and physically doesn't always come easy. If you’ve ever felt like the spark has faded or that your relationship could use a little more play, affection or intimacy you’re not alone.

Let’s take a look at what the numbers say about married life in the U.S. today and what couples are doing to reconnect.

The State of Marriage in the U.S.

Marriage is still very much alive:

Over 60% of U.S. adults have been married at some point.
Around 51% of American adults aged 15 and over are currently married.
The average age at first marriage is rising: 30.2 for men and 28.6 for women.

As couples wait longer to marry, many are prioritizing emotional compatibility and deeper connection yet even with strong foundations, long-term relationships take effort.

The Intimacy Gap: What Couples Are Really Experiencing

Sex and affection can become less frequent over time, but the numbers are eye-opening:

Around 15–20% of married couples are in what’s considered a sexless marriage (defined as fewer than 10 times per year).
About 30% of couples say mismatched libidos are a major source of tension.
Only 44% of married people describe their sex life as “very satisfying”.

Over time, the frequency of intimacy also tends to drop:

In the first year of marriage, couples report being intimate about 7 times per month.
By year 10, that number drops to just 1–2 times per month.

This doesn’t mean love is lost but it often means couples need help creating space for connection again.

Emotional Distance Is Just as Common

It’s not just about sex. Many couples report feeling emotionally out of sync, even if they still care deeply for one another:

1 in 3 married people say they feel emotionally distant from their partner at least sometimes.

Common reasons cited include lack of communication, routine fatigue, and feeling unappreciated.

Digital Intimacy Is on the Rise, But Trust Is Key

More couples are turning to digital tools to spark new kinds of intimacy:

75% say that digital intimacy tools like games, guided experiences, or conversation starters have helped them open up.
However, 57% express concerns about privacy in apps that deal with romantic or personal content.

That’s why privacy, consent, and customization are essential especially in apps designed for couples, not singles.

The Good News: Reconnection Is Possible (and Fun)

These trends show that you’re not alone and more importantly, you’re not stuck.

Rebuilding intimacy doesn’t require dramatic changes or awkward conversations. Sometimes, all it takes is the right nudge: a playful challenge, a meaningful touch, or a guided experience that helps you rediscover each other.

One Way to Reconnect: Try an Intimacy App Designed for Couples

At Pikant, we’ve built a private, respectful, and playful app that helps committed couples explore their connection through:

Guided intimacy challenges based on your preferences
Custom environments like "Our Home" or "Beach House"
A fun Love Spinner Game to mix affection, imagination, and trust
A partner store where you can reward each other with gifts that matter

No swipes. No strangers. Just meaningful moments with the person you love.