There are compelling arguments that marriage equality is good fiscally (for both individuals and states), legally (ditto), and socially, no matter who you are.
Financial UPSIDES
There is substantial evidence that marriage is financially beneficial to couples. In his study “Economic Value of Same-Sex Marriage,” for the Drake Law Review, M.V. Lee Badgett explores in detail the financial and social advantages married same-sex couples have over their legally-single counterparts. He concludes that “Survey data, economic theory, and state and federal law provide strong evidence that marriage provides important economic support for families." When we have financially stronger citizens, we have a financially stronger state, providing advantage to everyone (not only those who generated that strength), as the state’s increased tax revenues and political power pass down to its residents.
LEGAL UPSIDES
Richard Williams of Bakersfield College’s Department of Philosophy posits that marriage rights are collective rights. Williams suggests that marriage is not an individual right “like free speech and voting.” Since marriage cannot be entered into alone, the right to marry is more similar to the right to assembly. Reinforcing the rights of groups, even as small as couples, reaffirms those rights not just for the particular groups, but all groups.
SOCIAL UPSIDES
Experts agree that marriage, regardless of the sexual orientation of the couple, is advantageous for the children of that couple. In her article “Scientific Facts Regarding Homosexuality & Marriage Equality,” Dr. Kate O’Hanlan coalesces reports from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Psychological Association, and the Child Welfare League of America on the social value of marriage, summarizing that it “strengthens mental, physical health and longevity of couples, and having two parents (of any gender) provides greater health, legal/financial security for children.” Marriage is good for more than just the parents, it is good for the entire family.