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In a nutshell
- 56% of Americans find using coupons on first dates acceptable, with 28% considering frugality “sexy” — showing that budget-consciousness is now an attractive quality
- There’s a clear gender divide when it comes to splitting the bill — only 32% of women are enthusiastic about a second date after splitting, compared to 70% of men
- Financial compatibility matters long-term — 83% of married respondents said shared money views were key to finding their spouse
NEW YORK — The days of dropping hundreds on lavish first dates to impress a potential partner? Gone. A new survey reveals that 56% of Americans now think using a coupon on a first date is completely fine. Even more surprising—61% find being budget-conscious actively attractive, with 28% going so far as to call frugality downright “sexy.”
The Art of Financial Attraction
When Talker Research asked 2,000 Americans about dating economics on behalf of TopCashback.com, they discovered that showing off wealth might actually hurt your chances. More than half (56%) reported being turned off by dates who flaunt their money.
“The data shows today’s daters aren’t looking to be swept off their feet by spending,” said Destiny Chatman, consumer expert for TopCashback. “Thoughtful financial choices like using a coupon or redeeming cash back show planning, not penny-pinching. In this economy, frugality isn’t just practical. It’s an attractive sign of long-term potential.”
The data identified $125 as the tipping point where first-date spending begins to feel excessive to most Americans. Meanwhile, 37% of respondents said they’d actually be impressed by a date who uses reward points to pay, and nearly half (48%) are comfortable splitting the check—though with a notable gender divide. Only 32% of women expressed enthusiasm for a second date after splitting the bill on the first, compared to 70% of men.
The Economics of Modern Romance
Economic pressures appear to be reshaping dating preferences across the country. A solid 60% of singles say they’re likely to date someone who regularly hunts for deals, with 55% noting that a partner’s financial awareness has become more important to them in the last five years.
The survey showed that the current economic climate is the main reason single people are finding budget-conscious partners more attractive. This trend reflects a broader shift in how Americans approach money in relationships.
For those seeking long-term commitment, financial compatibility proves crucial—83% of married respondents identified similar approaches to money as a key factor in finding their spouse.
Frugal vs. Cheap: Know the Difference
While penny-pinching might win you points, 70% of Americans draw a clear line between being financially savvy and just plain stingy. The behaviors most likely to flag someone as “cheap” rather than “frugal” include:
- Skipping on essential expenses like tipping (34%)
- Money decisions that negatively affect others (25%)
- Financial choices harmful to oneself (13%)
- Refusing to spend on any experiences (12%)
“We’re seeing a dynamic shift in dating culture,” added Chatman. “People aren’t just watching how you treat the waiter, they’re watching how you treat your wallet. Being smart with money isn’t about cutting corners; it’s about showing care, confidence and long-term thinking, which is exactly what today’s singles are looking for.”
In a dating world transformed by economic realities, how you handle your finances might reveal more about your relationship potential than your dating profile ever could.
Survey Methodology: Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans online between April 17-21, 2025, commissioned by TopCashback.com. The survey used non-probability sampling through online access panels and programmatic sources. Respondents received points with small cash-equivalent value for participation. Statistical significance was calculated at 95% confidence level, with minimum 80 respondents per analysis cell. Quality control measures eliminated speeders, inappropriate responses, bots, and duplicate participants. The survey was only available to individuals with internet access, and results may not be generalizable to those without internet access.
