Bumble discovers how the cost of living crisis in Ireland affects dating.

The cost of living crisis and hyperinflation have taken their toll this year; like the housing crisis before it, it’s essentially all anyone talks about. It affects all aspects of life, so it’s no surprise that it also affects how Irish people date. Bumble did a study into how there’s been a rise in “cash candid-dating“, which refers to being more honest and open about finances with your date.

Research shows that discussing money on a date is becoming less of a taboo; 29% of Irish adults dating think it’s important to have a finances conversation early on due to how the cost of living crisis has progressed since the beginning of 2022.

Bumble discovered in their study that those dating often opt for more low-key dates, with 28% saying they were more likely to go for a free date activity (like a walk) now. 32% said they would prefer a modest date if not a free one, where finances are unlikely to be a concern. 21% would even cook dinner to avoid going out for a possibly expensive meal.

And while money is important, 73% of people in Ireland would rather be with someone who has a good work-life balance than someone who earns a lot of money. To that effect, 80% agreed it’s more important for their partner to enjoy their work than to have an “impressive” title.

When it comes to splitting bills, 25% of Dubliners think it should be based moreso on what each of you earn as opposed to equally. 45% of women would only discuss finances if they were in a serious relationship, while this drops to 38% of men.

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