04.09.2026 14:40
In Latvia, where the female population significantly outnumbers men and doubles among those over 65, the demographic crisis has given rise to an unusual sector. The 'hourly husband' service, created for women who need help with household chores and takes on everything from plumbing to carpentry, is selling out in the country.
The fact that the female population in Latvia significantly outnumbers males has led to the emergence of an interesting market in daily life. The "hourly husband" service offered for women who struggle with home repairs and assembly work in the country is attracting great interest.
In Latvia, one of the Baltic countries of Europe, the striking difference between the female and male population has caused unusual services to become widespread in daily social life. With the male population remaining extremely low compared to women in the country, demand for "hourly husband" services, preferred by women who need help in areas requiring craftsmanship in household chores, is increasing day by day.
FEMALE POPULATION IS 3 TIMES THE EU AVERAGE
According to recent data from Eurostat, the number of women in Latvia is 15.5 percent higher than men. While it is stated that this difference is more than three times the European Union average, the picture becomes much more evident in older ages. According to World Atlas data, the number of women in Latvia's population over the age of 65 reaches approximately twice that of men. This demographic situation in the country is directly reflected in social life. Dania, a single woman working at festivals, stated that 98 percent of her colleagues are women, saying, "We have difficulty finding men we can chat with or flirt with." Dania's friend Zane said that many women find the solution to finding a partner by going abroad.
THEY RENT AN "HOURLY HUSBAND"
This notable new service in the country does not directly aim for a romantic relationship. The service offered under the name "husband for an hour" basically covers technical and craft-related tasks at home.
- Komanda24: Through the platform, help can be obtained from craftsmen introduced as "golden-handed men" for a few euros. Services include plumbing, carpentry, furniture assembly, and mounting a television on the wall.
- Remontdarbi.lv: Craftsmen called by phone or over the internet arrive at the address within about an hour and quickly complete wall painting, curtain repair, and unfinished household tasks.
MEN'S AVERAGE LIFE EXPECTANCY IS SHORT
The biggest reason for the gap between the female and male population in Latvia is shown to be the shorter average life expectancy of men. According to expert assessments and health data:
- Smoking: The smoking rate among men is 31 percent, while this rate remains at 10 percent among women.
- Obesity and Weight: 62 percent of men are classified as overweight or obese, while this rate stands out as 57 percent among women.
The low life expectancy among men due to bad habits and health problems causes the gender balance to tip in favor of women, especially in older age groups.