ideal partner salary — How Much Do Singles Want in 2026?

What Is the Ideal Partner Salary Expected by Singles?

When it comes to finding love, the ideal partner salary averages $139,000 for single daters, according to a recent study. Based on the ‘2026 Planning & Progress Study’ conducted by The Harris Poll for Northwestern Mutual, women look for an ideal partner salary averaging $172,000—a striking 70% higher than the $101,000 expected by men. Generationally, Millennials aged 30 to 45 reported the highest expectations at an average of $160,000, followed by Gen Z at $135,000, Baby Boomers at $125,000, and Gen X at $123,000.

Financial Stability vs. The Reality of Dating

Despite these high financial expectations, money is not an absolute dealbreaker for everyone. Over half of single respondents, precisely 59%, stated that a potential partner’s income level does not matter to them. The survey, which evaluated 4,375 American adults last January, suggests that years of economic uncertainty have driven many singles to favor partners who manage money well and offer financial security. Amid these heightened financial standards, younger demographics are experiencing a ‘dating recession.’ Data from a February Institute for Family Studies (IFS) report showed that only 31% of individuals aged 22 to 35 actively seek a partner or enjoy a date at least once a month.

Financial Honesty in Modern Relationships

With financial pressures on the rise, many daters resort to exaggerating their monetary status. A Credit One Bank survey of 1,000 Gen Z and Millennial adults revealed that over half have lied or exaggerated about their financial situations to online or in-person romantic interests.