All The Frugal Ladies Personal finance with a feminine touch
I’ve been on both sides of the relationship game – at times, I dated very casually and almost indifferently, just trying to have fun and enjoy single life. Other times, I was in long term relationships, more serious and committed.
But the financial reality doesn’t change either way: dating is EXPENSIVE. Being my frugal self, I always wondered: which type of dating costs less?
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Obviously I wouldn’t recommend picking your dating style based on what is cheapest (there was an episode on Extreme Cheapskates about someone who dates on the ultra-cheap, and there’s no doubt that he will be eternally single if he truly behaves that way).
But I just wouldn’t be a good frugal lady if I didn’t figure out the financials behind dating.
So it’s time to analyze: which is cheaper?? Casual or long term dating? Let’s find out!
The Dates
We’re not all creative in coming up with free or cheap date ideas. Most dates usually go the same route: dinner, coffee or movies. With these dates happening all the time, the cost of dating adds up. Regardless of whether you are going on casual dates or long term dating, you’re bound to go out on dates, and these activities will cost money.
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But dating tends to be more expensive in the beginning of a relationship: that stage when you are getting to know each other and are not feeling comfortable together just yet. Once you’re in the relationship longer, dates transition from parties and restaurants to sitting at home watching a movie eating home-made pasta.
On the other hand, when you’re dating casually, you’re in that beginning stage with every single person you meet. In other words, you’re consistently going out for dinner, coffee or movies. That’s not easy on the pocket and adds up to a hefty sum over time.
Plus, there are small tricks that can help you attract a partner from the get-go, like a pheromones perfume. For a small investment, you can boost your confidence and attraction with new or long-term partners.
Tougher on the pocket: Casual dating
Dating Sites
Is one type of dating site cheaper than the other? In my experience, no. I wrote an article in the past about the cost of online dating sites and why they are worth the investment.
Whether you try one of the naughty dating sites aimed at casual dating and one-night stands, or a dating site aimed at finding a romantic long-term partner, either way your membership will cost about the same.
Of course, you will meet people with very different intentions depending on the site you join, and this may also have an impact on your costs. For example, one-night stands may be very direct and to-the-point, requiring no actual date.
Tougher on the pocket: Equal
Miscellaneous Spending
When it comes to finances, there is a definite expense you don’t have to worry about in casual dating: gifts! Yes, in a long term relationship you need to think of gifts for anniversaries, birthdays, or just to randomly show your love.
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There are also other expenses to worry about: shopping for food, trips, inviting your date out, gas, and so on. These can all add up, and chances are that in a long term relationship, they will be adding up more frequently.
Tougher on the pocket: Long term relationship
The Bottom Line
In the end, which is more expensive: long term dating or casual dating?
There is no one set answer. Everyone dates differently and how you spend your money in dating is an individual issue based on your personal decision-making.
One thing is for certain: even though dating can be expensive, experiencing love, flirtation, flings, meeting new people or getting to know someone on a deeper level is priceless and worth every cent spent!
What are your thoughts on the expenses of dating? Share your thoughts below!
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