Key Facts

• The average cost of a date increased from $168 in 2025 to $189 recently, a 12.5% rise.
• Nearly half (47%) of singles in the U.S. say dating is too expensive.
• A survey found 86% of adults delayed dating because of money worries, and 87% canceled dates due to costs.
• Young people, especially Gen Z, are most impacted, with 50% saying dating stops them from reaching financial goals.
• Only 31% of unmarried Americans aged 22-35 go on dates at least once a month.
• Food and drink costs for dining out have risen by 3.8% over 12 months, outpacing overall inflation.
• Expenses like dating apps, transportation, clothing, and events also cause financial stress for daters.
• Economic struggles are creating a "dating recession," possibly reducing social interaction and future marriage rates.