Cash-candid dating: Single people are opening up about their finances more

Now, it’s affecting dating too – and why wouldn’t it, when dating can be a costly activity, both in preparation and on the date itself?

In fact, it seems Bumble has now spotted a money trend among their users: cash-candid dating.

It involves talking more honestly and openly about money – a topic that traditionally has been a no-go.

A survey found 42% of single people now prefer modest date locations to avoid stress about the bill, while 30% believe more so now (than they did at the start of the year) that it’s important to chat about money.

One in ten people say they would talk about salary on the first few dates, and only 6% would never raise these conversations.

This has led to a rise in cheaper date ideas, as 34% would suggest a free date activity.

When money is being spent, 21% of those surveyed set themselves a budget.

Young people typically are much more concerned about money than older generations, with Gen Z and millennials most likely to save where they can.

Bumble and financial expert Alice Tapper share how to approach conversations about finances with your date.

How to suggest a low-key first date

Alice says: ‘Being 10 minutes into a three-course dinner and realising there is zero vibe is an expensive but avoidable situation.’

Instead, keep it simple.

Suggest a walk in the park on a sunny Saturday or a quick coffee.

How to suggest splitting the bill

Alice says: ‘It’s a controversial one, but in my view, nobody should be picking up the full tab unless they really, really want to.

‘Times are tough and, thankfully, we’re moving beyond gendered expectations of who pays for what.

‘While paying can be a kind gesture, it often creates unhelpful expectations and pressure.

‘On the first date in particular, there’s no shame in confidently asking “shall we split?”‘

Research from Bumble shows a quarter of Gen Z and millennials believe that you should split date costs – even if you and your date have different salaries.

How to see if you’re on the same page about finances

Having open conversations about money and earnings with your date can help you figure this out.

Alice says: ‘On a first date, you can kick things off with questions like “is work important to you or a means to an end?”

‘Down the line, you might move on to bigger conversations like whether they prioritise saving and paying off debt.

‘Remember, there are no right answers – it’s just about what your values are and whether they align.

‘Lastly, while we’ve all heard the advice that it’s important to find someone who has the same values as you, remember that financial values are a “thing” to.

‘We’re all guilty of making assessments about a date, but what someone earns is only half the story – while it’s ok to want financial stability, someone’s behaviours and values around money are more important than what they earn.’

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