U.S. — Economic pressures are influencing dating behaviors in the United States, with a 2026 BMO Real Financial Progress Index survey indicating that the average date costs Americans $189. A separate survey by Intuit reported that 51% of Americans are going on fewer dates due to the economy.

Financial expectations on dates vary by gender. The BMO survey found that 71% of men expect to cover all expenses on early dates. In contrast, 52% of women reported that they expect to split the bill on a date. Actor Robert Pattinson stated that he agrees that you should always split the check on a date.

Living situations also factor into perceptions within the dating scene. Dating coach Mila Smith distinguished between different reasons for living with parents. Smith stated, "Living with parents to save money for a deposit is one thing." She added, "Living with parents and spending all your money on hobbies, clothes, or gaming is a different story."

Credit scores are another financial element influencing partner selection. A Hily dating app survey revealed that 1 in 5 daters would not consider dating someone with a credit score below 580. The same survey indicated that 31% of daters believe an excellent credit score makes someone more attractive. Attitudes towards frugality also emerged, with 44% of Millennials and 37% of Gen Z considering frugality to be an attractive trait, according to the Hily survey.

Why It Matters

The findings indicate that economic conditions are directly impacting relationship pursuits and the criteria individuals apply to potential partners. The financial demands of dating, exemplified by the $189 average cost, contribute to a decrease in dating frequency for many Americans. Economic stability and financial habits have become considerations in dating decisions, with some individuals factoring credit scores and saving behaviors into their assessments of others.