The Hidden Costs of Dating Apps
Dating apps have become a popular tool of modern dating but they come with hidden costs - taxing our time, wallets and emotional health. Matchmaking can address these issues and, in many instances, may be a more cost effective way to meet someone than using a free app.
Time Commitment - On average, men spend 50 minutes per day swiping, chatting, and checking profiles across multiple platforms. Men are often juggling two or more platforms to maximize their chances of finding a match. Over 50% of users check their dating profiles multiple times daily, with most investing significant portions of their free time browsing and messaging. Studies suggest that consistent users can spend between 7 to 10 hours per week on dating apps. This adds up to over 40 hours a month, the equivalent of a full work week.
Financial Costs - Dating apps are rarely free when users aim to maximize their experience. Premium services such as Tinder Gold, Bumble Boost, and Hinge+ can cost $10 to $50 monthly, depending on the app. Add-ons like profile boosts or extra swipes can increase monthly expenditures. Some users even pay for professional profile help, costing hundreds annually.
However, the biggest cost to men is the opportunity cost, as a six figure earner is spending valuable time swiping, leading to lost productivity. For example, if you earn $100,000 per year, your swiping time is costing you $15,000 a year. That cost rises to $75,000 a year if you earn $500,000. Benjamin Franklin’s saying that time is money is as true today as it was in 1748.
What Matchmakers Save - Free dating apps may seem like the cheapest way to meet someone at first glance. However, professional matchmakers, offering a personalized, hands-on approach, may potentially save you significant time and money:
Time Savings: Matchmakers handle the labor-intensive processes of screening, vetting, and setting up compatible matches. This service could save users 7-10 hours per week spent on apps.
Cost Efficiency: While matchmakers charge upfront fees (anywhere between $5,000 and $50,000), these services eliminate ongoing app subscriptions and the sunk costs of fruitless dates.
Emotional ROI: Beyond time and money, matchmakers reduce dating fatigue, providing tailored support and often leading to higher-quality matches and outcomes.
In conclusion, while dating apps offer convenience, they can be time-consuming and costly. For high-earning men seeking efficiency and quality over quantity, matchmakers can provide a structured and results-driven alternative.
