The Rise of 'Solo-Maxxing' in the United States
A growing number of Americans are choosing to forgo romantic relationships entirely, embracing a lifestyle trend known as solo-maxxing—a deliberate focus on maximizing the benefits of being single. One of the main drivers behind this shift is the soaring cost of dating, which now averages $189 per outing, marking a 12.5% increase from the previous year. For Gen Z, the average date costs $205, while millennials spend even more at $252—a 32% jump year-over-year. With restaurant prices climbing 31% between February 2020 and April 2025, many young people now view dating expenses as a barrier to achieving their personal and financial goals.
Social and Psychological Dimensions
According to a MyIQ study involving over 14,000 adults across the US, UK, EU nations, Latin America, Australia, and South Africa, nearly half of those aged 18 to 34 report that single life feels more peaceful than life with a partner. Additionally, 42% of respondents said that relationships interfere with their personal goals, financial stability, or self-development. As Sarah Meyer notes,
“the affordability of dating is only part of the picture, because now it competes with pressures like rent, career instability, subscriptions, and the overall cost of maintaining an active social life.”
Mental health also plays a key role in this trend. Among those surveyed, 33% actively avoid dating to protect their psychological well-being. The MyIQ research also found that 46% of participants believe dating apps have made relationships feel disposable. This aligns with the view of Jason Firstein, who argues that
“people are saying: I don’t want to keep swiping through profiles or going on bad dates that lead nowhere.”A 2026 Bank of Montreal report shows that in March 2026, Tinder lost 7% of its monthly active users compared to the same month the previous year.
Importantly, solo-maxxing may also serve as a defense against emotional burnout. Jess Carbino explains, “solo-maxxing involves a significant amount of conflict avoidance, which reduces our ability to learn about ourselves and others.” Marisa Ronquillo adds, “sometimes ‘protecting your peace’ is genuinely empowering. Other times, it’s a protective shell after burnout or betrayal. Most often, it’s both.” This phenomenon signals a fundamental shift in how young people view romantic relationships and the reasons they increasingly choose singlehood.
The solo-maxxing trend reflects the socio-economic realities facing today’s youth, particularly how rising costs influence lifestyle choices. As the cost of living continues to climb, many young adults are placing greater value on personal space and self-development, prompting a re-evaluation of traditional relationship norms. Solo-maxxing highlights a new approach to romance that could reshape social structures and dating culture in the years to come.