Inspired by a new survey, I am wondering: How important is, or was, money and financial compatibility to you in your romantic relationships? If you are single, how much does your ideal life partner make? If you are partnered, how big a role did their job and earnings (and earning potential) play into your decision to be with them?
Among singles who say income is important in a life partner, the average ideal income is $139,000 per year, according to Northwestern Mutual’s 2026 Planning & Progress study. The report surveyed 4,375 U.S. adults aged 18 or older in January; the data is weighted by age, gender, race/ethnicity, region, education, marital status, household size, household income, and propensity to be online.
Naturally, there are differences by gender and by generation. Women hope their partner earns $172,000, while men hope for $101,000, on average. Single Millennials have the highest aspirations for their partner, wishing for $160,000, while Gen X hopes for $123,000, on average.
That said, 59% of singles do not believe a potential partner’s income is important, according to the survey.
“While most singles don’t think income matters, a substantial number do,” said Jeff Sippel, Northwestern Mutual’s chief strategy officer. “After years of volatility, many singles are looking for a partner who can manage money well, provide financial stability, and put them on a path to financial security.”
Another interesting tidbit from the survey: The younger you are, the more likely you are to say money arguments are putting a serious strain on your relationship. More than 40% of Gen Z couples surveyed said they fight about money, while just 12% of Boomers-plus said the same.
I don’t think I ever had a particular number in mind, but it has always been important to me that my partner at least had some ambitions when it came to work or making money, and that he respected mine (and my desire to be in control of my own finances).
That said, Northwestern Mutual’s results seem pretty high! Chris and I are making it work (so far!) on far less than the headline numbers.
What about you? Do these numbers line up with your own ideals in a romantic partner?
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