Going Solo

Why do so many people today choose to live alone? 'Going Solo' explores this modern phenomenon and reveals how independence can empower and enrich lives.

1. The Rise of Solo Living

In the 1950s, only a small fraction of adults lived alone, but today, nearly 50% of adults in the United States are single. This enormous shift is the result of several societal changes, including women’s growing independence and advancements in technology.

The transformation of women’s roles in the workforce has had a profound impact. Between 1950 and 2000, the number of working women jumped from 18 million to 66 million, enabling them to gain financial independence and make lifestyle choices that didn’t center on marriage or family.

Another factor is the rise of technology, which allows people to stay connected even when they live alone. Social media, smartphones, and the internet have replaced older technologies like landline telephones and television, making individuals feel socially engaged even in solitary living spaces.

Examples

• In 1950, the societal norm was for women to stay home, which bound them financially and socially to family roles.
• By 2000, women’s career opportunities had vastly expanded, allowing them to support themselves independently.
• The widespread use of smartphones now lets people text or video call anyone anywhere, diminishing the feeling of loneliness.

2. Cities Foster Single Living

Urban centers have become hubs for individuals who prefer living solo, thanks to anonymity and opportunities that cities uniquely provide.

Large cities offer a sense of privacy along with the possibility of building connections with like-minded individuals. Greenwich Village in New York, starting in the 1930s, became one of the first communities where living alone was normal rather than an anomaly. Residents found their independence within a dynamic social atmosphere that celebrated creativity and individuality.

Furthermore, young professionals moving to urban centers often see living alone as a means of advancing their careers. Solitary living eliminates distractions, providing the space necessary for focusing on high-pressure jobs while offering an escape for decompressing after long work hours.

Examples

• Greenwich Village residents valued the mix of personal independence and community spirit, gathering in parks and cafes without sacrificing privacy.
• Urban anonymity allowed individuals to leave judgmental small-town attitudes behind.
• Many young professionals in competitive fields like law and medicine prioritize solo housing to maximize career focus.

3. Autonomy and Freedom

Living alone provides adults at all stages of life the opportunity to build confidence and maintain a sense of autonomy.

For young adults, moving away from their families or starting life independently fosters growth. For those recovering from divorce, solo living offers a way to reclaim independence and focus on personal satisfaction rather than managing a relationship. Many divorced individuals find greater contentment living alone, as loneliness within an unhappy partnership is often more isolating than being single.

Even elderly women often choose to live alone despite the risks of aging solo. Rather than remarry or move in with family, many desire to preserve their freedom, which can give their lives purpose and dignity.

Examples

• Divorced adults frequently cite relief after transitioning to solo living when escaping unsupportive relationships.
• Young adults report greater self-identity and confidence after moving into their own spaces.
• Elderly women who outlive their spouses often choose not to remarry to maintain independence.

4. Benefits of Single Living

Singles enjoy a range of benefits, from pursuing hobbies to living by their own schedules, as they make decisions solely based on their happiness.

Whether it’s dedicating weekends to writing, embarking on personal adventures like mountain climbing, or changing professional paths without family constraints, living alone creates space for self-exploration. These solo pursuits enhance personal growth and increase contentment in ways that shared living might limit.

Even in later years, autonomy through independent housing or assisted living creates happier aging experiences. Elderly individuals who embrace singlehood often lead meaningful, socially fulfilled lives.

Examples

• Solo weekend adventurers benefit by hiking independently without coordinating with a partner’s preferences.
• Writers frequently cherish solitary hours to create uninterrupted.
• Elderly women living alone report higher life satisfaction than those who return to caregiving in second marriages.

5. Men and Isolation Challenges

While many individuals thrive while living alone, single men often struggle due to weaker social support systems compared to women.

Men are often not encouraged to build deep, supportive friendships in childhood, leading to difficulties in creating meaningful networks as adults. Male cultures tend to emphasize competition rather than emotional connection, making loneliness a more prominent issue for solo-living men as they age.

Living in single-room occupancy units (SROs) can further exacerbate isolation. Inhabitants of these inexpensive housing options often avoid socializing, either from embarrassment or a fear of associative stigma.

Examples

• Single women often maintain vast support networks from childhood through old age.
• Elderly single men frequently report fewer community activities or social outlets.
• Organizations like Breaking Ground work to create more inclusive communities within SROs for male residents.

6. Solo Trends in Aging

As populations age, single living becomes more common, yet the systems often fail to support this growing demographic effectively.

Many elderly individuals would prefer assisted living arrangements to maintain a balance of independence and community. However, the prohibitive cost of such facilities in nations like the US leaves many unable to access this option, driving them into subpar nursing homes.

Countries like Sweden demonstrate a successful alternative. Swedish policies prioritize affordable housing, universal health care, and social support, creating an environment where single living is viable for all age groups.

Examples

• In the United States, inadequate assisted-living options force elderly to live below their ideal standards.
• Sweden offers state-supported single apartments and cooperative living spaces to promote vibrant communities.
• Programs like intergenerational housing in Sweden pair young adults with elderly co-inhabitants for mutual benefit.

7. Women’s Pioneering Role

Women have led the movement toward singlehood more definitively than men, redefining independence and personal choice.

By gaining access to education and higher-paying jobs, more women are delaying or outright rejecting traditional ties like marriage. Many women now choose to forge lives by themselves, finding fulfillment outside of domestic roles that might have limited earlier generations.

These choices reflect societal shifts wherein personal happiness and accomplishments outweigh societal expectations.

Examples

• More women are pursuing advanced degrees than ever before, which often delays marriage.
• Divorce rates are higher today because more women can afford to pursue single life rather than stay in unhappy marriages.
• Media portrayals of independent women, such as 'The Golden Girls,' have normalized the idea of thriving alone.

8. Urban Design for Solos

Many cities need to adapt infrastructure to better serve single individuals, from housing policies to social spaces.

Housing shortages, inadequate community spaces, and insufficient public services often leave solos disadvantaged. Leaders can create solo-friendly initiatives, like smaller apartments or mixed-age cooperative spaces.

Such changes benefit all citizens by making cities more diverse and inclusive.

Examples

• Cooperative housing in Sweden blends solo living with interconnected support systems.
• Spaces like community lounges in urban apartments encourage social interaction without pressuring connection.
• Mixed-use developments foster accessible social opportunities for urban citizens.

9. Building Support Systems

Thriving solo doesn’t mean isolating—it requires cultivating relationships and connecting regularly with others.

Healthy solo living means leveraging technologies, participating in group events, and acknowledging the importance of friendship and neighbors. More communities should create ways for solos to connect safely.

Examples

• Many seniors use social media to keep in touch with faraway grandchildren.
• Apps like Meetup bring singles together around shared hobbies or interests.
• Strengthened local support services help residents—even solitary ones—thrive together.

Takeaways

1. Build strong social networks while living alone by joining clubs, classes, or online communities.
2. Advocate for policy changes, like better housing options or universal health care, to support independent living for all.
3. Embrace the freedom of solo living to pursue personal passions and hobbies without restrictions.