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Dating is not as cheap as it used to be. A few years ago, it felt like my partner and I always went out on dates. Now, these dates are far and few between. And can you blame us? In 2018, the average cost of a date in some states was well above $100. There are some dates we’ve limited or stopped altogether.
We chose dates that cost more than $50 to curate this list of 12 dates people can no longer afford.
Here are 12 dates people just can’t afford anymore and 5 budget-friendly alternatives.
1. Movie Theater Nights
It blows my mind how people can still afford to go on dates to the movies. The movie theater is not cheap, even for just one person. Tickets alone cost as much as $18 per person. Not only do you have to worry about spending money on movie tickets, but also snacks. Movie dates are also fun, but short. What can you plan afterward that doesn’t keep costing you?
2. Dancing
A night out dancing sounds like such a blast. But it isn’t the most affordable date. Think about all the things you have to pay for. Typically, you need to pay a cover fee to enter a dance club or event. You also pay for food and drinks. And what about the cute outfit you’re wearing? Parking and gas are other expenses to consider.
3. Festivals
I’ve stopped going on dates to festivals unless the entry is free. Festivals are pricey. There is so much more to a festival than just the entry ticket. Not only do you have to pay to enter a festival (two for a date) but also parking, merchandise, and food. A festival date could easily cost you $200 or more! Remember, it’s not just one mouth to feed.
4. Concerts
Festivals and concerts can go in the same category. They are similar enough. But in my opinion, concerts can be more expensive depending on the size, performer, and venue. The average global ticket price in 2023 was $130.81. So for two people, you’re already paying over $260, not including fees or taxes.
5. Dining Out
I’m not gonna lie, my partner and I still go out to eat, but it’s lessened a lot. Instead of weekly or bi-weekly night outs, it’s dwindled to once or twice every other month. Can you blame us? The average American spends about $11 to $20 on one meal alone, and that’s on the lower end. Some nights our bill reaches close to $100.
6. International Travel
Most people don’t go on a first date by traveling internationally. But these dates still exist. Unless it’s a special occasion with years of planning and saving, most people can’t afford to go on a date in another country. Plane tickets alone can cost over $2,000 per person. Per vacation, the average American traveler spends $1,742.90.
7. Arcades
Arcades are so much fun. I’m a competitive person. If you let me, I’d spend all day with my friends or partner in an arcade. The problem? Arcades aren’t inexpensive. I spent over $200 on the same day at an arcade, not including food or drinks. The prizes aren’t worth the cost of the games. You’d be surprised how little time $50 worth of arcade credits lasts you.
8. Sip and Paint
Creative dates are a blast. I love passing by sip-and-paint locations and watching couples paint together. These locations vary in cost, but you can spend as much as $50 per person for an hour of painting and some light drinks. Honestly, it’s a lot cheaper to do this at home. Buy some cheap paint at a craft store, two canvases, and a free YouTube tutorial video. Trust me, you’ll have more fun.
9. Pottery Classes
Pottery classes are just as expensive as painting places. But why? Well, pottery isn’t cheap to make. The instructors need to be paid and the materials are costly. Not only that, but pottery takes time. You need to come back after it’s glazed and fired up. So, how much can you expect to pay for a pottery class? The classes vary in price, but my partner and I paid $120 for both of us.
10. Road Trips
Road trips aren’t as costly as international travel. However, there are so many little things in a road trip that can make it add up. As fun as a date idea as this is, it’s more for special occasions. When taking a road trip you have to pay for an endless amount of stuff. This includes gas, car maintenance, things to do, places to stay, food, and more.
11. Dance Classes
I already mentioned dancing, but what about dance classes? This is another date people just can’t afford anymore. One dance class is never enough and they can really add up. Salsa, ballroom, and merengue classes run anywhere from $10 to $30 per person. This number is higher for advanced dancers. We almost went to a class but the costs were too much but decided to learn through YouTube videos.
12. Escape Rooms
Escape rooms are a great way to get to know someone. They are one of the most fun date night ideas. However, escape rooms are costly. They also only last about an hour or two, so you’re left with the rest of the night to do something else. I still like escape rooms but we go to them once in a while, not frequently. They start at around $30 per person.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Okay, so dating is expensive. We all know that, but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need to spend over $100 every time you take your significant other out for a date. There are plenty of affordable and even free things to do. I’ve done all five budget-friendly alternatives.
Hiking
Hiking is free – or at least it can be. If you want a budget-friendly date, plan a picnic and a hike. I recommend grabbing your favorite snacks, making sandwiches, and going to your favorite walking trail. This, of course, only works if you’re near hiking trails. Still, even if you drive, it’s cheaper than taking a domestic or international trip.
Free Events
Not all festivals or events have an entrance fee. Most cities and towns have free local events where you can walk around, enjoy the scenery, and talk to vendors. A perfect and cheap date is to attend your local farmer’s market. Check out your city’s downtown for monthly events. Typically, craft fairs are also free.
Driving Around
Dating is a way to get to know someone or to strengthen a relationship. You don’t have to plan out fancy and long dates each time. One of my favorite things to do is to just drive around and talk. Get your favorite coffee or smoothie and drive around your city or to a new town. You can also download games on your phone to get to know each other better.
Dinner at Home
Why spend nearly $100 at a restaurant when you can cook a delicious and personal meal with less than half of that? If you’re a cook, show off your talent and plan a night in with a special meal. I’ve done this plenty of times and will continue to do so. It’s even more fun if you both participate in the cooking. You can also get creative and try a new recipe.
Movies at Home
Instead of shelling out a ridiculous amount at a movie theater, bring the movies home. Rent or stream a movie from the comfort of your couch. You can buy popcorn and your favorite snacks for a fraction of the cost too. The best part is you’re home so you can get cozy and talk all you want.
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