Singlehood is on the rise in Canada, with single-person households more than doubling between 1981 and 2021 to a record high of 4.4 million. This demographic shift is impacting various facets of Canadian life, from housing to taxes, and is prompting discussions about fairness and economic implications.
The increasing number of single individuals is placing pressure on the housing market. Single people often find it more challenging to afford homes, as they shoulder the entire cost of rent or mortgage payments alone. A 2026 Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast indicated that the national aggregate home price will increase to around $823,000, a heavy burden for single-income households. Economist Armine Yalnizyan notes that single people may require smaller, cheaper housing, shifting demand in the market.
The tax system is also under scrutiny, with growing calls for adjustments to better reflect the needs of single Canadians. Currently, many tax benefits favour couples, such as pension income splitting and spousal RRSP contributions, leaving singles at a disadvantage. As Geoff MacDonald, a professor of psychology at the University of Toronto, points out, advocacy for the rights of single people is growing, pushing for fairer tax laws. There's a perception of a "singles tax" due to the lack of cost-sharing benefits.
This trend reflects a global shift, with more people prioritizing education, career, and personal growth over settling down. While singlehood was once viewed negatively, it is increasingly accepted and even embraced as a fulfilling lifestyle. Chloe Bow, a content creator, highlights the growing community of women who are choosing singlehood and finding happiness in their independence. The rise of singlehood is not just a demographic trend, but a cultural one with significant economic and social consequences for Canada.
