Study: Single Americans Expect Partner Salaries Above Median
Around 40% of U.S. singles consider a potential partner's income important, with the average expectation of $139,000 annually, according to a new study.
Money appears to be a significant factor in relationships, whether single or partnered, according to a new study by Northwestern Mutual. While the median annual earnings for American workers hover around $65,000, nearly 40% of U.S. singles consider a potential partner's income to be an important consideration in partner selection.
Among those singles who do deem income important, the average expectation for an ideal partner's salary is $139,000 per year. This expectation varies significantly by gender and generation. Women hope their future partner earns an average of $172,000, while men expect $101,000—a 70% difference.
Younger generations, including Millennials and Gen Z, set the highest salary expectations. Millennials anticipate $160,000, followed by Gen Z at $135,000. Older generations, such as Gen X and Boomers, are slightly more conservative, expecting their potential partners to earn $123,000 and $125,000 annually, respectively.
Jeff Sippel, chief strategy officer at Northwestern Mutual, commented that while most singles don't consider income a primary factor, a substantial number do. After years of volatility, many are looking for a partner who can manage money well, provide financial stability, and set them on a path to financial security. The study is based on data from Northwestern Mutual's 2026 Planning & Progress Study.