Rising Dating Costs Impact Frequency Among Young Americans
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Apr 25 2026
0mins
Source: CNBC
- Declining Dating Frequency: According to BMO's survey, 50% of single Americans are going on fewer dates due to rising living costs, with 48% of Gen Z and 40% of millennials stating that high dating expenses hinder their financial goals.
- Cost Analysis: Gen Z spends an average of $205 per date, while millennials spend $252, leading to an annual dating expenditure of approximately $1,845, which constitutes 3% to 5% of median annual income for full-time workers aged 16 to 34, highlighting the significant financial pressure dating imposes on young adults.
- Shifting Dating Approaches: As living costs rise, young people are adopting more conservative dating strategies, reducing high-risk social activities, which results in fewer emotional connections being formed, reflecting the profound impact of economic pressures on social behavior.
- Dating App Expenditures: About 35% of dating app users have paid for subscriptions, averaging $19 per month, and while most users utilize free versions, the
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Analyst Views on MTCH
Wall Street analysts forecast MTCH stock price to fall
12 Analyst Rating
4 Buy
8 Hold
0 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 39.180
Low
33.00
Averages
37.17
High
49.00
Current: 39.180
Low
33.00
Averages
37.17
High
49.00
About MTCH
Match Group, Inc. is a provider of digital technologies designed to help people make meaningful connections. The Company's global portfolio of brands includes Tinder, Hinge, Match, Meetic, Pairs, Plenty of Fish and more. Its segments include Tinder, Hinge, Evergreen and Emerging, and Match Group Asia. Tinder is an online dating platform with swipe technology. It offers Tinder Plus, Tinder Gold, or Tinder Platinum subscriptions. Hinge is a popular app for individuals seeking intentional and relationship-oriented connections in English-speaking countries and other international markets. It offers two premium subscriptions, Hinge+ and HingeX. MG Asia brands primarily focus on serving various Asian and Middle Eastern markets. Its brand is Azar. Evergreen and Emerging are collections of brands including well-known pioneers in online relationships and newer brands designed to serve specific communities, demographics, and identities. Its brands are Match, Meetic, OkCupid and Plenty of Fish.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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