Love takes a backseat: Just 23% of Australians plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day
The majority of Australians won't be celebrating Valentine's Day this year, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1,096 respondents revealed almost 1 in 4 (23%) Australians plan to celebrate Valentine's Day.
That's 4.7 million people who will be spoiling someone special this year.
More than 3 in 4 (77%) will not be marking the occasion as they don't have a partner (36%) or just don't celebrate Valentine's Day (41%).
For those planning to take part, spending is forecast to reach $916 million.
The average Australian celebrating Valentine's Day will spend $201 each on their significant other, down slightly from $207 in 2022.
Rebecca Pike, money expert at Finder, said with Valentine's Day swiftly approaching, so too is the pressure to spend.
"The rising cost of living has certainly cast a noticeable shadow on Valentine's celebrations this year, with fewer people planning on taking part.
"The commercialisation of the holiday can put immense pressure on our wallets, but love isn't measured in expensive gifts and lavish dinners.
"Pricey gestures aren't the only way to show your appreciation for someone."
The Aussies who are celebrating will splash out $420 million on dining out, $246 million on presents and $81 million on dining in.
Pike reminded consumers there are alternative ways to celebrate without burning a hole in your pocket.
"Whether it's an intimate home-cooked meal or a heartfelt card, a personalised experience can speak volumes.
"Avoid the peak prices where you can – sometimes making reservations or purchasing flowers a few days before will help you avoid the surge in costs.
"Talk to your partner about setting a budget for things like Valentine's Day or anniversaries, or setting a challenge to hand-make gifts. That way you're both on the same page about keeping costs down," Pike said.
| Will you be celebrating Valentine's Day this year? | |
|---|---|
| Yes | 23% |
| No, I don't have a partner | 36% |
| No, my partner and I don't celebrate Valentine's Day | 41% |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,096 respondents, January 2024 |
| How much do you plan to spend on Valentine's Day for your partner? | ||
|---|---|---|
| Dinner (dining out) | $148 | 63% |
| Presents | $121 | 45% |
| Flowers | $50 | 35% |
| Chocolates | $53 | 29% |
| Dining in (e.g. Uber Eats) | $100 | 18% |
| Other | $56 | 5% |
| Average Australian who is celebrating Valentine's Day | $201 | 23% |
| Source: Finder survey of 250 respondents who plan to celebrate Valentine's Day, January 2024 |
Finder has a list of gift ideas, things to do, tips and tricks for Valentine's Day this year.