How do people get married in Kazakhstan?

Summer remains the most popular season for weddings both in Kazakhstan and in worldwide. However, research shows that today, the decision to start a family is increasingly dependent not only on feelings but also on the financial status of the future spouses, El.kz reports.

According to data from the Kazakhstan Institute of Social Development (KISD), the majority of citizens view marriage as a serious life step that requires financial preparation. Economic factors were cited as important or very important by 66.7% of survey participants. Another 19.6% of respondents consider them moderately important.

Financial stability becomes a priority

The study results show that urban residents are more likely to link starting a family with material stability than rural residents. The importance of the economic factor was noted by 72.3% of city citizens and 56.7% of villagers.

This difference is explained by the level of expenses and the cost of living. In large cities, young couples more frequently face issues regarding rent, mortgage obligations, the cost of organizing a wedding, and the future maintenance of a family.

Experts note that financial readiness is gradually becoming one of the key criteria before entering into marriage. Young people are increasingly delaying the registration of their relationships until they can secure a stable income and resolve housing issues.

Why summer remains wedding season

According to the Bureau of National Statistics, the highest number of marriages in 2025 was registered specifically during the summer.

In June, 11,848 marriages were contracted; in July, this figure rose to 12,955; and in August, there were 12,418 unions. Thus, July maintained its status as the most popular month for marriage registration in the country.

Specialists attribute this to the vacation season, favorable weather, and established family traditions. In summer, it is easier to organize large celebrations and invite relatives from different regions.

Global trends are changing the wedding calendar

While June and July were previously considered the undisputed leaders, more couples today are choosing May and September.

October is also gaining popularity. In European and North American countries, this month already competes with traditional summer dates due to moderate temperatures and picturesque autumn locations.

Newlyweds are getting older

Another trend in recent years relates to the age of entering into marriage. People increasingly prefer to first obtain an education, build a career, and ensure financial independence.

In Kazakhstan, the average age of first marriage in 2025 was 27.9 years for men and 25.3 years for women. These figures remain lower than in many developed countries but are also showing a gradual increase.

At the same time, the cost of holding weddings is rising. In many states, the high cost of celebrations is becoming one of the reasons for postponing marriage registration to a later date.

Against this backdrop, KISD data shows that for the majority of Kazakhs, family remains an important life value; however, the decision to marry is increasingly made after an assessment of one's own financial capabilities.