The Role of Occupational & Industry Education Attainment in Partner Selection: Evidence of Workplace Influence on Spouse's Education Level

This study examines the role of occupational and industry education attainment in partner selection, focusing on the influence of workplace environments on spousal education levels. Using data from the American Community Survey(ACS), the research analyzes the average education level of opposite-sex individuals in the same occupation and industry (Occ*Ind Edu) as a predictor of spousal education. Results indicate a significant positive association between occupational education and spousal education for both men and women, with a stronger effect observed for women. This suggests that men and women may use different criteria when selecting a partner, potentially driven by transaction cost reduction and returns on education in the marriage market. In particular, the effect is stronger for couples in the same occupation or industry than for those who are not, which indirectly explains the phenomenon of people meeting and marrying in the same occupation/industry. By treating marriage as a contract and exploring education-based partner selection mechanisms, the findings provide insights into how workplace dynamics and education contribute to spousal selection, with implications for understanding socioeconomic assortative mating. JEL code: J12, J16, I20