Why Nearly 50% of Gen Z Prioritizes Money Over Love: Insights from a New Survey

Leave the fiancé, take the 401k. That’s the mindset of many young people today. A recent survey by Tawkify revealed that 46% of Gen Zers would prioritize long-term financial stability over romance. In fact, about one in three would even consider reuniting with an ex if they had become wealthy.

Brie Temple, Tawkify’s CCO, shared that money represents safety and freedom. For many, taking back an ex who has come into wealth isn’t just about finances; it’s about what that wealth represents—security, ambition, and personal growth since the breakup.

The survey, conducted in June 2025, asked 1,000 Americans how money influences relationships today. Gen Xers appear the most financially cautious, with 52% saying they’d choose money over love. Gen Z isn’t too far behind.

Interestingly, around 10% of Gen Z women believe their ideal partner should earn $200,000 or more. Most won’t even consider anyone making less than $80,000. In contrast, Millennials lean more toward love, with 59% preferring a “broke and magical” relationship instead of one centered on financial security. Overall, 63% of Americans said they’d marry for love, even if it meant financial challenges.

But love has its limits. Nearly half of Gen Z, specifically 46%, wouldn’t date someone who’s unemployed, surpassing political differences as a dealbreaker. Temple noted that today’s singles are evaluating not just incomes, but savings habits and long-term financial goals. “We’re more interested in how people manage money and what their lifestyle looks like,” she said. “It’s important to understand financial compatibility early on.”

A staggering 70% of people across generations admitted to staying in relationships longer than they should have due to shared finances. This highlights a significant trend: financial issues can prolong unhealthy relationships.

Marisa Cohen, a family therapist from Long Island, pointed out that Gen Z’s attitude toward money has been shaped by years of economic instability, including the 2008 recession and pandemic-related job losses. “The urgency to focus on finances makes sense, given their experiences. Relationships tied to financial uncertainty can clash with personal goals,” she explained.

These financial conversations are happening earlier in relationships. Damona Hoffman, a dating coach and author, emphasized that daters are wary of partners with poor credit or debt. “People might appear successful with a nice apartment or flashy car, but may actually be burdened by high-interest loans,” she said.

Still, Gen Z hasn’t completely turned their backs on romance. A slight majority, 54%, still prefer a “broke and magical” connection over a materialistic one. “Gen Z wants love that fits into a life that’s secure and true to themselves,” Temple added. This opens the door to a new kind of relationship, one that balances love and financial realities, showcasing how today’s youth are approaching dating thoughtfully and deliberately.

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