11 money challenges women face more often than men

Despite decades of progress, money still isn’t equal for women. From wage gaps to unpaid caregiving, women face financial pressures men rarely encounter—pressures that shape not just paychecks, but entire futures.

Financial stress appears differently for women than it does for men. It’s not just about budgeting or saving; it’s about systemic gaps, cultural expectations, and personal pressures that make managing finances harder. Many women don’t even realize how much these factors play a role until they compare notes with male colleagues or partners. Understanding these unique challenges is the first step toward building confidence and taking control of financial futures.

The truth is, women often juggle more with fewer resources. From the wage gap to caregiving responsibilities, financial setbacks aren’t just individual—they’re structural. These barriers don’t just affect bank accounts today but also long-term stability, like retirement and investments. Here are the money challenges women are more likely to face.

The persistent gender pay gap

Women still earn less than men for the same work. According to Forbes, women earned about 82 cents for every dollar men made in 2023. This means women need to work longer hours or multiple jobs to make up the difference, leaving less room for saving or investing.

Career interruptions for caregiving

Many women leave the workforce to care for their children or aging parents. While men also face caregiving responsibilities, women are statistically more likely to take extended breaks, which slows down career progress and reduces lifetime earnings.

Lack of negotiation in salaries

Studies show women are less likely to negotiate starting pay. PayScale reports that 31% of women never ask for a raise, compared to 23% of men. This hesitancy often stems from a fear of being perceived as “difficult,” but it leaves women financially behind.

Higher student loan debt burden

Women tend to borrow more and take longer to pay off student loans. The American Association of University Women (AAUW) found that women hold $929 billion in student debt in the U.S. This delays milestones such as buying a home or investing early.

Longer life expectancy with less savings

Women live longer than men but retire with less. According to the CBC, women outlive men by about six years on average, yet their savings are lower due to wage gaps and career breaks. This creates higher risks of financial insecurity in old age.

Rising costs of motherhood

Motherhood often comes with hidden financial penalties. A study from the National Bureau of Economic Research found women’s earnings drop by about 30% after having a child, while men’s income typically remains unaffected. This “motherhood penalty” compounds over time.

More pressure to provide unpaid care

Even when working full-time, women often handle unpaid caregiving at home. This limits their ability to work overtime, take promotions, or pursue higher-paying but demanding jobs. Over time, it quietly eats away at earning power.

Higher healthcare costs

Women spend more on healthcare across their lifetime. From reproductive care to higher insurance premiums, these costs add up. BMC Health Services research found that women have higher healthcare expenditures than men.

Being underrepresented in investing

Women invest less often and more conservatively than men. Surveys show that women tend to keep more money in savings accounts rather than investing it in stocks or retirement accounts. While caution feels safe, it often means missing out on long-term growth.

Divorce and financial vulnerability

Divorce hits women harder financially. Research from the U.S. Government Accountability Office found women’s household income drops by 41% after divorce, compared to 23% for men. This makes rebuilding stability more difficult.

Confidence gap with money management

Many women doubt their ability to manage money, even when they’re capable. Sanlam Investments found that only 9% of women believed they could outperform men in investing; yet, women investors actually earn higher returns on average. This lack of confidence holds many back from making bold financial moves.

15 Things Women Only Do With the Men They Love

The 15 Things Women Only Do With the Men They Love

Love is a complex, beautiful emotion that inspires profound behaviors. We express our love in various ways, some universal, while others are unique to each individual. Among these expressions, there are specific actions women often reserve for the men they deeply love.

This piece explores 15 unique gestures women make when they’re in love. From tiny, almost invisible actions to grand declarations, each tells a story of deep affection and unwavering commitment.