According to a report from BMO Financial Group, the average cost of a date in America has risen to $189, marking a 12.5% increase from the previous year, which is notably higher than the general inflation rate of 2.7%. Millennials lead this trend, spending an average of $252 per date, up from $191.
The data, derived from a survey of 2,501 adults, indicates that inflation is influencing dating habits, with many Americans opting for fewer and less expensive dates. Specifically, half of those surveyed reported reducing their dating frequency or choosing cheaper activities due to financial concerns. The average number of dates per person has decreased from 14 to 12 over the past year.
Additionally, the report highlights a gender divide in dating expectations, with 71% of men expecting to cover all costs initially, while 52% of women prefer to split expenses.
Experts like Sabrina Romanoff and Jess Carbino suggest that economic uncertainty is reinforcing traditional gender roles in dating, with social media exacerbating these dynamics by promoting polarized views on financial responsibilities in relationships.
This shift in dating culture, driven by economic factors, could have lasting implications for social interactions and consumer spending in the dating sector