Rising costs of living is affecting dating: BMO survey says

A BMO report released earlier in February says inflation is also driving up the cost of finding love, with many people going on fewer dates.

While inflation has cooled, thanks to higher interest rates tamping down the economy, costs of dining out and groceries remain elevated and budgets tight.

The report says more than half of Canadians say the rising cost of living is impacting their dating lives, with many opting for fewer or less expensive dates.

Nearly 30 per cent of singles have cancelled plans to save money, while the average Canadian spends $173 per date – including food, drinks and transportation.

On average, partnered Canadians have gone on 10 to 21 dates before committing to a relationship, suggesting Canadians could spend up to $3,621 on dates before making a relationship “official.”

The report reads that nearly half of single men surveyed, said their net worth affected their dating prospects and about 36 per cent of women felt the same.

The survey says singles on average have been on three dates in the past 12 months, with about 55 per cent saying they have been on no dates at all in the past year.

There are still affordable yet cute date options, like exploring mom-and-pop cafes, ice skating at public rinks or tobogganing together.

With files from the Canadian Press.

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