Gen Z: Financial Insecurity and Romance – Who Pays on the First Date?

Financial insecurity is impacting Gen Z's romantic relationships, with many spending no money on dates, according to a Bank of America report.

Over 50% of Gen Z spend $0 per month on dates, focusing on financial security instead of romance. A Bank of America survey found that 53% spend nothing on dates, while one-third spend less than $100.

Ryan Viktorin of Fidelity Investments noted that Gen Z prefers cheaper outings and openly discusses finances. This generation has grown up with economic crises and sets high financial goals, such as saving for retirement.

A LendingTree survey showed that inflation affects the dating lives of 65% of those who go on dates, with many spending less or going on fewer dates. Gen Z is moving away from casual dating and dating apps, despite companies' efforts to attract young users with AI tools.

Match Group and Bumble are struggling with declining subscriptions and have laid off staff.