Gen Z is rejecting $200 dates and choosing ‘solo-maxxing’—and dating apps are taking a hit
Gen Z and millennials are increasingly opting for 'solo-maxxing' as dating costs rise, with many choosing to remain single rather than face expensive outings. The average cost of a date has surged, leading to concerns about financial goals and emotional well-being. This trend is reflected in declining usage of traditional dating apps, as younger adults prioritize independence and personal stability over relationships.
- ▪The average cost of a date in the U.S. has risen to $189, a 12.5% increase from the previous year.
- ▪Half of Gen Z and 40% of millennials report that dating costs hinder their financial goals.
- ▪A global survey found that nearly half of adults aged 18 to 34 feel being single is more peaceful than being in a relationship.
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| Original publisher | Fortune |
| Canonical URL | https://fortune.com/2026/05/30/why-does-gen-z-not-like-to-date-solo-maxxing-dates-too-expensive-emotionally-draining/ |
| Publication time | Sat, 30 May 2026 10:27:00 +0000 |
| Retrieval time | 2026-05-30T10:47:09.021Z |
| Last seen | 2026-05-30T10:47:09.021Z |
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Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
As Americans weather inflation, tariffs, and a rising cost of living, it feels as if there’s little room in their budgets for discretionary spending. And that means modern dating is taking a hit.Recommended Video In fact, dating has gotten so expensive that a growing share of Gen Z and millennials are deciding that the cheapest (and calmest) option is to have no partner at all. They call this practice “solo maxxing,” which reframes single life less as a sad holding pattern between relationships and more of a deliberate lifestyle. (Maxxing comes from social media and internet slang for maximizing an action). They argue it’s cheaper, more predictable, and emotionally lower-risk.
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