Dating in America: A Budget Buster

0:00It's April 28th, Durham news today starts now, AI-powered and ready. Dating in America is turning into a budget buster. Fresh numbers from BMO's real financial progress index peg the average date at $189. That's a 12.5% jump from last year's $168. For singles who day regularly, that adds up to $2323 a year. These costs are climbing faster than everyday inflation, hitting grooming, rides, and the main event. Its squeezing folks were already juggling high rent and bills, making romance feel like just another line item. Younger crowds like Gen Z and Millennials feel it most. For a typical Gen Z worker, that yearly tab hits about $1,845 or 3 to 5% of their gross pay. Half of Gen Z and 40% of Millennials say it messes with their savings and debt goals. Now there's a clear split in how people cope, 14%, key dates free, up from 12% last year,

1:02while another 14% drop, $300 or more. Men often expect to flip the early bills, with 71% on board, but over half of women prefer splitting. Talking money up front seems to cut spending too. As prices keep rising, dating is getting more calculated, with people balancing heart flatters against wallet hits, reshaping how we connect for good.