Gen Z is embracing single life under the term 'solo-maxxing', but the trend is driven by financial pressures rather than personal choice. Data from the Bank of Montreal's 2026 real financial progress index shows the average Gen Z date in the US now costs $205 (£152), including food, drinks, transport and grooming. With an estimated 20 dates needed to find a partner, that totals $4,100 (£3,044) before ongoing relationship expenses.
Disposable income is scarce for a generation facing AI-related career displacement, making relationships seem financially unviable. TikTokers have popularised solo-maxxing, with one user describing 'the ability to do things by yourself and not depend or lean on anyone else' as a key skill for the twenties.
However, critics argue solo-maxxing may be a misnomer. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation estimates a single working-age adult needs £30,500 gross annually for a minimum acceptable standard of living, while a couple needs £43,000 between them (£21,500 each). This means being single costs £9,000 more per year than being in a relationship, contradicting the notion that singledom is cheaper.
Despite this, the trend persists, with many young people filming solo activities like running, dining out, and cinema trips for social media. Some view this as performative loneliness rather than genuine independence. The phenomenon highlights how systemic economic pressures are reshaping social structures, potentially leading to new trends like 'couple-maxxing' in response.
