The scenario of the second job not being worth it it after taxes, work related expenses, etc. assumes that that job doesn’t pay well.
There ARE better paying jobs available to those with technical or professional degrees.
There are a lot of couples where each makes the same income as the other.
In order to avoid the “marriage penalty” taxes, they got married in church only, and didn’t record it at the county.
All the feds see are two single people.
I earn many thousands more than my husband. We keep his job because he has excellent medical benefits. Even after generously over-estimating my expenses to work, my net pay is more than 3X minimum wage
If anyone would stay home, it would be him. He has a physically demanding job and isn't as young as he used to be. He's had both knees fixed. If he hurts his back, it could be the end of his working career.
When his body is worn out or too beaten down, my job will sustain the family.
He did a great job a carrying the entire load when I was chronically ill for several years. Now it's my turn.
That's what a marriage is all about; spouses, working together to help the family succeed and provide a safe, comfortable, loving environment for the children.
Let there be no mistake: we have a traditional, biblical marriage. I am proud that my husband is the head of the house. And he is man enough to be proud of me, his industrious wife.