The article explores the circumstances influencing family formation in Slovenia. Public opinion surveys in Slovenia have shown that young people have high aspirations regarding family life. These findings, however, stand in sharp contrast to demographic indicators, that is, delayed parenthood and a low birth rate. The qualitative analysis comprised both the personal factors, such as family lifestyles identified by young people as being desirable and the role of the family in their plans for the future, as well as structural factors affecting the starting of a family (housing, employment, etc.) and the problems and obstacles accompanying this process. One crucial finding is that personal factors rather than structural constraints are a key barrier to family formation.