Young adults still say they want meaningful relationships, but many are stepping away from the dating scene altogether. A recent State of Our Unions 2026 survey found that only 26% of women identify as active daters, highlighting what researchers describe as a growing dating recession. Financial pressure, low confidence, and disappointing past experiences are keeping many singles on the sidelines instead of pursuing new relationships. While dating apps have made meeting people easier in theory, the emotional and financial realities of modern dating appear to be creating new obstacles.
