Dating Shouldn't Be Expensive and Avoiding It for Financial Reasons Is Counterproductive
Source: Christopher Jacobs. "If Dating Is Breaking The Bank, You’re Doing It Wrong." May 28, 2026. thefederalist.com
The Gist
Young people are spending way too much money on dates and some are giving up dating to save money. This is backwards thinking - they should just date more cheaply since finding a partner actually saves money in the long run through shared expenses.
Conclusion
People who cut back on dating due to financial concerns are making a mistake and should instead find more economical ways to date
Premises
- Current dating costs are unnecessarily high, with Gen Z spending $205 and millennials $252 on average per date
- Many low-cost or free dating options exist, such as museum visits, walks in parks, coffee dates, and cooking together
- Low-cost dates have practical advantages beyond saving money, such as easier exit strategies if compatibility is poor
- Finding a romantic partner provides significant financial benefits through dual-income household arrangements
- Compatible individuals can enjoy each other's company regardless of how much money is spent on dates
- Avoiding dating entirely to save money exemplifies being 'penny wise, pound foolish'
Assumptions
- The primary goal of dating is to find a long-term romantic partner
- Financial compatibility and household economics are important factors in relationship success
- People have access to free or low-cost dating venues in their areas
- High spending on dates does not necessarily correlate with romantic success or compatibility
- The financial benefits of partnership outweigh the costs of dating