Dating in America just got a lot more expensive — and it's revealing something bigger about the state of personal finances in this country.

The average cost of a first date has climbed to $189 in 2026, up 12.5% from last year — outpacing overall inflation. Millennials are spending an average of $252 per date, and social media is making expectations even more extreme.

Meanwhile, the U.S. personal savings rate has dropped to 3.6% — the lowest since COVID — household debt sits at $18.8 trillion, and credit card balances have hit $1.25 trillion.

Your personal finances are personal. Don't let social media make your money decisions for you.