The Average American Spent Over $3,000 On Dates This Year, And 37% Anticipate Scaling Back Due To The Economy
Is going on dates draining your bank account? A recent survey of 2,000 Americans conducted by OnePoll in collaboration with LELO revealed that the typical individual has shelled out a whopping $3,025.12 on dating in 2023. It also found that the average survey participant has been on eight dates over the past six months, each setting them back by about $189.
This price point does align with the participants’ expectations, as they believe a decent date should cost around $196. Yet, one out of every eight people anticipates spending a minimum of $300 on each date!
The survey also highlights a difference in gender perspectives since men generally estimate a good date at about $220, whereas women, on average, think $170 is sufficient for a quality date.
Now, in terms of who pays for these dates, about 33% of those surveyed usually foot the bill, closely matched by 31% who typically have their dates paid for. Only 27% of respondents reported splitting the bill or taking turns closing out the tab.
The data also revealed a notable gender disparity, with 54% of men being more inclined to cover the entire cost of a date in contrast to only 12% of women.
Plus, relationship expenses extend beyond just date nights. On average, individuals have spent close to $360 on gifts for their partners over the last year, with 20% revealing they’ve spent more than $500.
Men tend to spend more on their partner’s gifts, averaging around $430, whereas women typically spend about $272.
Passing on this gift-giving isn’t advisable, either, since a third of Americans admit they would judge their partner for not receiving a gift on a special occasion, regardless of the duration of the relationship.
Now, about 66% of the respondents realize that the cost of dating has risen over the past year with inflation. That’s why 37% anticipate going on fewer dates in 2024 due to economic concerns. Furthermore, 60% plan to set a budget for their overall relationship expenses.
luckybusiness – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people
“In the dynamic landscape of modern relationships, where ‘infla-dating’ is reshaping connection costs, we encourage couples to redefine their approach to love’s expenses,” said Luka Matutinovic, a spokesperson for LELO.
“Navigate the currents of love wisely, prioritizing experiences that amplify togetherness. Stretch your budget wisely, opting for meaningful moments over extravagant expenses, and watch your relationship thrive without financial strain.”
Maintaining a long-term relationship could be a cost-saving strategy, as 31% of those surveyed think spending on dates should decrease as the relationship lengthens.
Respondents also offered their top tips for economizing in relationships. About 42% suggested choosing budget-friendly dining spots, while 40% advised people to purchase gifts on sale. Additionally, 35% claimed that opting for meals during cheaper times of the day, such as breakfast or lunch, could be a successful cost-saving measure.
It’s also crucial to note that almost half of those surveyed– 45%– agree that it’s acceptable to plan a “budget-friendly” date, and a similar proportion– 50%– say they wouldn’t judge their date for choosing a less expensive venue.
Half of the respondents also believe it’s fine to go on a date that costs nothing at all, with 47% stating they wouldn’t think less of their date for opting for a free activity.
Still, women are actually more open-minded about budget-conscious dating than men, with 55% of women versus 45% of men not judging a budget-friendly date location.
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