South East residents claim it costs more to be alone

A study by TopCashback.co.uk has revealed more than half of singletons feel it costs more to be solo than in a relationship, whilst 77 per cent of people in relationships say they have a better deal financially.

Around 96 per cent of single residents in the South East also think they would be paying less in rent and mortgage costs if they were living with a partner.

It seems ‘loved up’ residents realise they are getting the better deal with 67 per cent saying they would expect to pay more in housing costs if they were single.

Natasha Rachel Smith, consumer affairs editor for TopCashback, said: “Despite recent news reporting those in relationships are worse off, our research blows that claim out of the water. Single people are feeling the strain of being on their own and of course that makes natural sense.

“Living costs can be crippling for single Brits; whereas sharing the burden can massively ease finances. Those in relationships openly admit they’d expect to pay more if they were single.

“There’s in fact such a juxtaposition between the financial circumstances of solos and duos that some couples stay in unhappy or unhealthy relationships because they believe they can’t afford the day-to-day bills they’d need to take care of fully if they were alone.”

The survey also found 69 per cent of singletons believe their finances would be eased if they were in a relationship with 92 per cent saying the cost of dating is more expensive than the cost of being coupled up.

60 per cent of single residents in the South East who are dating claim they spend up to £200 each month trying to woo their potential partners, totalling a wallet-destroying £2,400 throughout the year.

Couples on the other hand say they spend just £500 a year on gifts and dates with their partner.

Mrs Smith continued: “Dating also proves to be a hefty cost for singletons, with those who are actively dating spending up to £200 a month on everything from subscriptions for dating sites to footing the outing’s bill.

“Daters needn’t spend so much; or perhaps if they used a few discreet tricks to lower the cost of their quest, they could afford to cast their net a little bit wider to find their soul mate a little bit faster.

“Cashback deals offer drastically cheaper online dating memberships and tickets to offline dating events, which significantly helps the financial strain of singledom.

“Discount vouchers can also halve the cost of restaurant meals and days out, so dating doesn’t have to rack up an annual bill worth thousands of pounds.”

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