Faced with rising costs, American singles are putting money on the front lines of their dating lives.
According to a recent survey by DatingNews.com and the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University, which studies sexuality, relationships, and gender, one-third of American adults, or 33%, say the economy is holding them back from having a serious relationship.
This number is even higher among younger generations, with 50% of Gen Z saying they are hesitant, as well as 37% of Millennials. Many specifically cite inflation as a reason for restraint.
“Economic factors affect different people in different ways,” said Justin Lehmiller, a senior fellow at the Kinsey Institute. He added, “Some people are hesitant to start a relationship simply because the cost of dating is so high.”
According to North American bank BMO, the average American spends $168 on a single date, including grooming and gas costs.
People who are ready for a date but don’t want to break the bank are getting creative.
According to research from DatingNews.com and the Kinsey Institute, just over a third of Americans, or 35%, choose coffee or drinks over a full meal on a date, and 35% choose a more affordable restaurant.
The median price of a cup of coffee in the U.S. is $3.52, according to restaurant tech company Toast. The median price for a beer is $6.50.
According to Lehmiller, other activities that single people reportedly do to save money include:
Go to a bar with happy hour Use a discount coupon for a date Cook a meal at home instead of leaving the house Do a free activity like a hike or walk Stay at home and watch a movie Choose a date spot close to home to avoid taxi or Uber fares
Lehmiller understands that the financial burden of expenses can weigh heavily on you when choosing how to approach your love life, but says it’s important to remain open.
“We can’t always control when we meet the right person,” he says.
“And maybe we don’t want to completely shut down possibilities, because the best person for you might be right in front of you.”
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