Older women are embracing relationships with younger men, stepping beyond the “cougar” label with confidence, clear desires, and rich life experiences.

Dating sites and apps have transformed the way to connect with people from all walks of life. They’ve opened the door to all kinds of relationships, even ones that defy traditional age norms. With this, we are seeing more and more younger men often finding themselves drawn to older women. But why do younger guys like older women?

The allure isn’t just about breaking societal norms; it’s about the unique blend of qualities that older women bring to the table. Age, in this context, isn’t a drawback but an asset. Many younger men are attracted to the depth of self-knowledge, wisdom, and confidence that older women possess.

Here’s a closer look at why younger men love dating older women.

1. They Know Themselves

The longer you’ve spent living life in your own body, the better you know it and your mind, heart, and soul as well. Many younger women are still unsure of exactly what they want in relationships, sex, and life, so they can’t ask for it.

Lots of men appreciate older women’s ability to ask for what they want and need—no guesswork necessary. They also know what they’re looking for in younger men.

2. They’re Sexually Empowered

Some people say that women don’t peak sexually until their 30s or even 40s. This could be for hormonal reasons or simply because older women have had the chance to get to know their bodies and discover what they like.

When a woman knows exactly what she wants, this takes the pressure off of men to figure it out themselves.

Older women dating younger men are also often less inhibited and more willing to let loose and get adventurous in the bedroom, which helps the men they’re with feel comfortable doing the same.

3. They’re Financially Stable

Men often face a societal expectation that they’re financially responsible for their partners, so it can be a weight off their shoulders when a partner is financially stable.

Dating a woman who can support herself opens up tons of possibilities, from going on extravagant vacations to getting a nice place together that you can both help pay for.

4. They’re Not Anxious to Settle Down

If a woman has already done the whole marriage-and-kids thing—or has reached the age where she could and decided not to—she’ll be a perfect match for a younger man who isn’t seeking anything serious.

Both people can enjoy the moment and have fun without worrying about getting to any particular destination. If you’re looking to date an older woman who’s divorced, check out these possible red flags.

5. They Have Strong Social Networks

One of the fun things about getting into a new relationship is getting to meet the other person’s friends, family, and coworkers.

This will likely be even more exciting with older women than younger men since they have already had time to establish themselves in the world and forge connections with many interesting people.

A younger man will appreciate the new friends that an older woman can introduce him to and the fun outings they can go on together.

6. They’re Established Professionally

Contrary to the stereotype of the man who brings home the bacon while the woman does the housework, many men appreciate powerful career women.

These women likely have interesting things to talk about, interesting people to introduce you to, and confident energy that many find sexy.

An educated and successful woman is also more likely to have well-thought-out opinions and be a great conversationalist.

7. They’ve Got a Lot Going On

Having your own life is attractive, and older women’s lives are often filled with family, friends, work, and activities—so much so that they won’t be counting on their partners to keep them busy.

This leaves a man who dates an older woman free to pursue his interests without worrying that his partner will feel left out.

8. People Get More Attractive As They Age

Women are often taught that their attractiveness will decline once they reach their 30s. However, many women become more attractive as they age.

This is partly because they’ve learned which styles and looks suit them best. Additionally, their confidence and happiness shine through, enhancing their appeal. There’s a particular glow that comes from loving yourself and knowing who you are so it’s no wonder why younger guys like older women.

9. They Can Teach Them a Thing or Two

With age comes wisdom, and many younger men are eager to learn from a wise older woman.

Your life experience allows you to give your partner advice and help him understand the ways of the world. After all, when someone needs guidance, their partner is often the first person they go to.

And while you give a younger man the perspective that comes with age and experience, he can fill you in on what’s happening in modern culture.

10. The Power Dynamic Can Be a Turn-On

Some men find dating someone older and more powerful to be a turn-on. These men may enjoy the idea of being submissive or being in the presence of someone dominant and commanding.

They get off on being told exactly what to do by someone who is sure of herself and knows what she wants.

Not all older women want to play this role, but many can.