1.5 million Aussies have ghosted a date due to mismatched financial values

• Almost one in ten (7%) – equivalent of 1.51 million – Aussies have ghosted a potential romantic partner in the past, due to mismatched financial values.
• Two in five Aussies (39%) believe financial compatibility is just as important as emotional compatibility in a relationship
• 17% of Aussies dare to discuss money matters within the first three dates
• Gen Z adults are significantly more likely than other generations to use budgeting apps or tools to plan for dating costs (16%)

Forget ‘it’s not you, it’s me,’ because new research from Australia’s most recommended bank*, ING, suggests differing approaches to money management is where the real issue could be. A staggering 1.5 million Aussies have ghosted a potential romantic partner after discovering their financial values were, well, less than compatible. It seems love isn’t just blind; it’s also got a keen eye on your financial foresight.

It turns out, for many, financial harmony is the new love language. Nearly two in five Aussies (39%) are boldly proclaiming that money matters are just as crucial as emotional connection when seeking ‘the one.’

And if you thought the younger generation was all about avocado toast and TikTok trends, think again. Nearly half of Millennials (48%) and more than four in ten Gen Z adults (43%) are making financial compatibility a non-negotiable on their dating checklists. Even Cupid’s arrow now comes with a financial literacy clause, with 17% daring to discuss their dollars and cents within the first three dates. 

For those who think a lavish dinner is the ideal date, hold your horses (and your wallet). 31% of Aussies actually prefer a low-cost date, like a casual coffee catch-up over a flashy one. It seems the humble flat white is the new aphrodisiac.

Perhaps the most heart-warming discovery? Gen Z adults are proving to be the ultimate financial cupids. Over one in ten Gen Z Aussies are not just planning their outfits but actively using budgeting apps and tools to plan for dating costs – that’s 16% compared to just 9% of Millennials.

Matt Bowen, ING’s Head of Consumer & Market Insights, channels his inner financial love guru:

“We get it – balancing your heart’s desires with your bank account’s boundaries can feel like a relationship tightrope, especially with today’s economic plot twists. But here’s the secret: money talks don’t have to be mood killers. In fact, they could be the start of a beautiful, financially healthy relationship.

“It’s fascinating to see how openly Aussies, especially our younger romantics, are embracing money chats and smart strategies to keep their finances flourishing without shutting down their love lives. Think of ING as your financial wing-person – we want to help you turn those smart intentions into lasting financial confidence, so you can focus on finding your perfect match (and still afford that fancy latte on your first date).”

Matt’s Money-Focused Matchmaking Tips:

1. Your Love Allowance: Think of your dating budget not as a restriction, but as a fun, dedicated ‘love allowance.’ It’s like setting spending limits for a video game – you know what you’ve got to play with, so you can strategise for maximum fun (and romance!) without overspending your lives.
2. Pre-Date Reconnaissance (aka Menu Mastery): Before you swipe right on that restaurant, swipe right on their menu! A little pre-date desk research means you can scout out delicious (and wallet-friendly) options. No more awkward ‘oops, that entrée costs more than my monthly phone bill’ moments.
3. Crowdsource Your Cupid Crew: Why go it alone? Your friends aren’t just for relationship advice; they’re your secret weapon for savvy financial dating! Tap into their wisdom for hot new (affordable) spots, or even their ingenious money-saving strategies. It’s like having a financial focus group for your love life!