A new survey has found that almost four in ten Americans admit to going on a date at least once with the primary intention of scoring a free meal. The findings, released on May 28, 2026, highlight the complex intersection of modern dating culture and financial pressures facing adults across the United States.
The survey, conducted by JG Wentworth, a Pennsylvania-based financial services company, polled 1,538 U.S. adults about their dating habits and the financial realities of pursuing romance in today’s economy. The research, titled “Love on a Budget: Are Americans too broke to date?” paints a detailed picture of how money concerns are reshaping dating behavior.
Main Survey Findings on Dating and Financial Pressures
According to the survey results, 39.9 percent of respondents admitted they have gone on a date at least once specifically to get a free meal. An additional 27.5 percent said they have never actually done it but have considered the idea. Meanwhile, 32.6 percent of those surveyed stated they have never even considered going on a date solely for the purpose of obtaining a free meal.
The research also uncovered that the average American spends approximately $93 on a first date, a figure that helps explain why financial considerations have become so prominent in dating decisions. This spending level appears to be causing strain, as 60.1 percent of daters surveyed believe that spending expectations are higher now than they were in the past.
The financial burden extends beyond just meal costs. The survey found that 29.5 percent of respondents have turned down a date specifically because they could not afford it. Perhaps even more striking, 85.7 percent reported having turned down a second date due to financial misalignment with the other person.
Expert Weighs In on Dating Etiquette and Ethics
Jan Goss, a professional development expert based in Texas, offered perspective on the ethical implications of dating primarily for free food. Goss emphasized the importance of honesty and integrity in all interpersonal interactions, including romantic ones.
“Whether it’s a first date, a business meeting or a friendship, relationships are built on trust. And so the moment we show up with this hidden agenda, we damage the foundation before it ever starts,” Goss said.
While acknowledging the economic realities many people face, Goss cautioned against using financial hardship as justification for misleading behavior. “There is an economics conversation around it, because times are tough for many and inflation is real. People are struggling. But financial struggle doesn’t give us permission to compromise our integrity,” Goss explained.
Traditional Dating Expectations and Protocol
The survey findings come as traditional dinner dates appear to be experiencing renewed popularity. A Wall Street Journal report mentioned that 20-somethings are driving the comeback of the traditional dinner date, suggesting that despite financial pressures, in-person dining remains a preferred dating format for many young adults.
Regarding who should pay on dates, Goss addressed traditional expectations while encouraging personal responsibility. “That’s protocol. If someone asks you to dinner, then the understanding is they’re going to pay,” Goss noted.
However, Goss also recommended that individuals be prepared to cover their own expenses regardless of who initiated the date. “I always have the means to pay for myself,” Goss said. “To take care of your own meal is polite, especially if it’s a first date, and you don’t really know which way it’s going to go.”
What the Numbers Tell Us About Modern Dating
The JG Wentworth survey reveals several key statistics about the current state of dating in America. With nearly 40 percent of respondents admitting to dating for free meals and another quarter considering it, the practice appears to be relatively common rather than an isolated behavior.
The $93 average first date spending figure represents a significant financial commitment, particularly for those who date frequently or are facing economic challenges. When combined with the finding that more than 60 percent believe spending expectations have increased, the data suggests that dating has become a notable financial consideration for many Americans.
The fact that nearly 30 percent have declined dates due to cost, and an overwhelming 85.7 percent have rejected second dates over financial compatibility issues, indicates that money matters are playing an increasingly central role in romantic decision-making.
Advice for Honest Dating Practices
Despite the prevalence of dating for free meals, Goss encouraged people to approach dating with honesty and respect for others. “Show up well, be honest and respect the person across the table,” Goss advised.
Goss also offered pointed commentary on the underlying issue revealed by the survey data. “Or stay home. The issue in this whole thing isn’t who pays for dinner. It’s whether we’re treating people as human beings or opportunities,” Goss stated.
This perspective frames the dating-for-food phenomenon not primarily as a financial issue but as a question of interpersonal ethics and how individuals choose to treat potential romantic partners.
Financial Misalignment in Relationships
The survey’s finding that 85.7 percent of respondents have turned down a second date due to financial misalignment suggests that money compatibility has become a major factor in relationship decisions. This high percentage indicates that beyond first date costs, Americans are carefully considering long-term financial compatibility early in the dating process.
The data points to a dating landscape where financial considerations extend well beyond who pays for dinner. Questions about spending habits, financial stability, and economic values appear to be factoring heavily into whether relationships progress past initial meetings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Americans have gone on a date just for a free meal?
According to the JG Wentworth survey of 1,538 U.S. adults, 39.9 percent admitted to going on a date at least once specifically to get a free meal.
How much does the average American spend on a first date?
The survey found that the average American spends $93 on a first date, contributing to concerns about the rising costs of modern dating.
Have people turned down dates because they could not afford them?
Yes, the survey revealed that 29.5 percent of respondents have turned down a date specifically because they could not afford it.
Do Americans think dating costs more now than before?
The survey found that 60.1 percent of daters believe spending expectations are higher now than they were in the past.
How common is it to reject a second date over money issues?
According to the survey, 85.7 percent of respondents reported having turned down a second date due to financial misalignment with the other person.
The JG Wentworth survey provides a detailed snapshot of how financial pressures are influencing dating behavior across the United States. While the practice of dating for free meals has drawn expert criticism regarding ethics and honesty, the data suggests it reflects broader concerns about the costs associated with modern romance. The survey polled 1,538 U.S. adults, though specific details about when the survey was conducted and the demographic breakdown of respondents were not provided.
