Single Americans want partners earning this much per year, study finds
September 3, 2026
Single Americans who say income matters in a relationship expect a potential lifelong partner to earn an average of $139,000 a year, according to a new survey highlighting the growing role finances play in modern dating.
The finding comes from Northwestern Mutual's 2026 Planning & Progress Study, which surveyed 4,375 U.S. adults. Among single individuals who said a partner's income is important, respondents answered that they ideally wanted someone earning a six-figure salary. Expectations differed sharply by gender and generation.
