How cost of living crisis has killed the dating scene for singles

18 June 2024 , 15:48

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Singetons are admitting to stopping going on dates due to the cost (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images/Westend61)

Dating has become a serious purse-stretching activity, and many are turning their backs on courtship as the cost of living soars according to experts.

Cash-strapped singles have been feeling the pressure more than ever to impress their date, while also worrying about breaking the bank. Studies have shown that many have put the breaks on dating amid ever-increasing costs. Thanks to inflation, several industries including food and drink have been hit with skyrocketing prices, putting people off going on dates. Restaurants have seen a colossal increase in prices, with a 8.2 per cent rise in January 2024.

Now it's been found that the average singleton splashes out a staggering £1,652 and goes on around 15 dates before they find the right partner. The survey by Novuna Personal Finance crunched the numbers and worked out the majority of daters spent £60 per date, and 13 per cent spent up to over £100 per first date.

"Almost a quarter (24%) of single people have had to reduce the number of dates they go on or wait longer to go on a date with someone they've met due to the inflated cost of living. More than half (54%) of UK daters have had to make sacrifices when finding love such as not making essential purchases and even deferring bill payments," Novuna stated.

Not only is it the date that can get pricey, but what about the preparation for the date? A new outfit, a haircut, shoes, perfume and makeup don't come cheap. Racking up the cost further, Novuna found that all of these pre-date expenses can add another £40 per date.

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Novuna added: "Over a third (35%) of respondents reported going shopping for new clothes or accessories for a first date, with two out of every five (41%) women doing so. Surprisingly men are more conscious of their appearance before stepping out for a date. A quarter (25%) of women have spent money on a haircut to prepare, while 37% of men have treated themselves to a pre-date trim. On average these pre-date expenses are setting singletons back an extra £40 per date – a significant investment."

Niamh Kirk