- Money matters are becoming a core part of romantic compatibility, with couples increasingly weighing financial alignment alongside emotional connection.
- Young Australians are embracing early money conversations, budgeting apps, and low-cost dating as part of a growing trend to combine financial transparency with romantic connection.
Two in five Aussies (39%) believe financial compatibility matters just as much as emotional compatibility in a relationship, a new research by ING reveals.
The findings highlight a growing shift in dating priorities, with nearly half of Millennials (48%) and 43% of Gen Z respondents saying financial alignment is a non-negotiable when dating.
Money conversations are also starting earlier than ever, with 17% of Australians willing to raise financial topics within the first three dates.
Matt Bowen, ING head of consumer and market insights, said talking about money early and respectfully with a date doesn’t have to be awkward.
“Talking about money is such an important conversation. Let’s not shy away from it or be scared of it. Open the door to that discussion with a potential partner. Sometimes it’s less about big, aspirational goals and more about your day-to-day lifestyle,” he told the Savings Tip Jar podcast.
“The cost of living is high, and bills aren’t getting any cheaper. It’s really a reflection of society right now. Everyone’s feeling the pinch, so it naturally becomes a conversation we want to have.”
Love in the age of money apps
Budgeting apps are becoming an unlikely dating essential, as young Australians take a more strategic approach to romance.
New research shows 16% of Gen Z Australians actively use budgeting apps or tools to map out dating costs - nearly double the rate of Millennials (9%).
Cost-conscious dating is also on the rise.
Flashy dinners and extravagant outings are losing appeal, with almost one-third (31%) of Australians preferring low-cost dates, such as meeting for coffee over more lavish experiences.
Separate research from digital bank Up also points to evolving attitudes around financial openness.
While 60% of young Australians admit they find discussing money with friends more uncomfortable than talking about sex or politics, 83% report having experienced conflict over finances.
Up’s senior consumer insights specialist Vivin George said the findings reflect a broader redefinition of intimacy.
“Feeling secure in a relationship increasingly means feeling comfortable talking about money, without losing independence,” Mr George said.
“Financial tools that remove awkwardness and create clarity are becoming part of how couples build trust.”