Love Does Cost a Thing: 1 in 3 Canadians Going on Fewer Dates Due to Economic Conditions, TD Survey Finds

Executive Summary

• TD Bank released results of a national survey showing that 30% of Canadians are going on fewer dates due to cost, with Gen Z the most price‑sensitive (36%).
• Financial transparency is becoming a top priority in relationships: 52% consider it a major factor when choosing a partner, and 25% now discuss finances earlier in a relationship.
• The survey highlights generational differences – Gen Z is more likely to keep financial secrets, maintain separate accounts, and favor prenups compared with other age groups.

Key Details

• Overall dating cost impact: 30% of Canadians are going on fewer dates because they’re expensive; 29% are switching to low‑ or no‑cost date options.
• Gen Z specifics: 36% choose less expensive dates (vs. 29% national average); 40% keep a financial secret from their partner (13 points above the national average); 54% maintain separate bank accounts (vs. 32% overall).
• Financial transparency priorities:
• 52% say financial openness is a big factor when selecting a partner.
• 51% value similar financial goals; 51% value comparable spending habits; 41% consider debt levels important.
• Deal‑breakers: Lying about finances (53%), bad spending habits (43%), never offering to pay for anything (41%).
• Relationship timing of money talks: 39% discuss finances only after moving in together or later milestones; 15% have not had the conversation at all.
• Shared budgeting: 35% of Canadians do not have a shared budget with their partner; among those who do, 29% struggle to stick to it.
• Gen Z prenup preference: 51% would want a prenup if married or in a common‑law relationship (vs. 28% overall).
• Survey methodology: Conducted Jan 9–13, 2026 via Leger Opinion panel; sample of 1,502 Canadian adults weighted by age, gender, region, and language; margin of error ±2.5%.

Notable Quotes

“As Canadians navigate an evolving economic landscape, we’re seeing a meaningful shift in priorities,” said Jeet Dhillon, Senior Portfolio Manager at TD Wealth.
“With 35% of Canadians wanting a shared financial plan with their partner, it’s clear that transparency and boundaries around money are top of mind for singles and couples alike.”