Household Bills
Life’s more expensive for singles
Dating has become big business, with single people spending over £700, according to Wonga.
The research, carried out for Singles Awareness Day on 15th February, also considered the cost of being single, compared to being in a relationship.
Older singles spend the most looking for love. Those aged between 45 and 54 spend an average of £78 a month, compared to millennials (16-24) who spend £62.
Daters in Southampton spend the most – an average of£88.60 a month for dating. London is second at £76.30.
The research also showed that the cost of living is higher for singles. For example, discount codes for food and drink tend to favour couples only. Wonga’s research suggests that single people booking the same holiday as a couple, but with a single room, tend to pay considerably more.
The majority of people – 88% – believe that it’s difficult for single people to achieve certain milestones in life. Almost half (44%) think it’s difficult for single people to buy a house, followed by saving for a house deposit (22%).
Diane Parkinson, relationship expert, said: “There is huge pressure to be in a relationship. This is reinforced by the obsession with modern media. All of this can make singledom something to fear.
“When you’re going on a date, you don’t need to spend a fortune on your appearance – a relationship is about being yourself. A date is about getting to know someone, not their bank balance.
“Use dating sites to make new friends, not just find a potential beau. Having friends means you then have people to share holidays, meals and theatre trips etc. with, so avoiding single supplements, or the extra costs for being an only one.
“If you are paying more for anything as a single person then challenge the cost, try negotiating for a deal that suits you. When booking on our own we can be less assertive, and we can feel more confident with a partner. So again, have one of your good friends with you when you need extra support.”
