Do couples prefer cheaper or more expensive dates? Is it really about hanging out and spending time with your loved one, or is it about the cost and how expensive it is that makes the date interesting and appealing?
Couples at MCHS shared their input exploring the influence money has on romantic relationships, investigating whether financial considerations impact love and dating. It aims to determine if the importance of money varies between individuals and whether both men and women can plan meaningful dates without straining their budgets.
Exploring how money impacts dating reveals that the value placed on a date extends beyond its financial cost. According to senior Daisy Villalobos, a successful date focuses on enjoying the shared experience rather than the amount spent.
“A good date for us would probably just be or at least what I think is a good date would be something we both enjoy—we both can talk to each other,” Villalobos said.
Villalobos’ preference for a quiet and intimate setting highlights a trend among many high school students who seek meaningful connections away from the hustle and bustle of crowded environments. This desire for one-on-one interaction reflects a larger shift in how young people define a “good” date; valuing quality time over flashy outings.
“I like going out, but I don’t like spending the money. So it’s more like going to the park or OCMA (Orange County Museum of Art), which is free,” Villalobos said.
Senior Victoria Higareda expresses her view on dating saying that affordable outings and creative alternatives can offer fulfilling experiences without breaking the bank.
“A good date for us is anywhere we can spend time together, so quality time,” Higareda said.
While some people might think that a great date requires spending a lot of money, others, like Higareda, find value in something more meaningful.
“I think having a smaller budget is better because you’re able to do more things, because if you spend all of your money on an expensive restaurant you won’t be able to do more things,” Higareda said.
In the end, the cost of a date, whether cheap or expensive, isn’t the main concern for many people. As highlighted in this article, what truly matters is the quality time spent together.
