Amid rising inflation and tariffs, the expenses of living have grown, impacting not just groceries and technology items but also dating costs. Some men are contemplating “dating” AI to economize. A survey by AI companion service Joi AI indicates that nearly one in three men (28 percent) would opt for dating an AI instead of remaining single to reduce expenses. The study, carried out in June with 1,000 men aged 18-44, revealed that 36 percent believe that dating an AI could save them hundreds every month.

Over half of the millennial and Gen Z men surveyed view AI relationships as more “economically sensible” than human ones, and almost half believe AI dates can fulfill emotional needs to some degree. Moreover, 17 percent have flirted with an AI, while 12 percent are uncertain or did so in jest.

Although most men would rather remain single than date an AI to save money, there is a clear sense of financial stress: 28 percent experience anxiety over dating expenses, with 49 percent feeling this way at times. More than half (64 percent) would compromise their criteria if income were not a consideration for their partner.

Joi AI is committed to fostering connections with bots, and individuals are indeed seeking companionship from LLMs. A survey by Common Sense Media discovered that some teens frequently interact with AI companions. An expert commented that it is not surprising young adults might wish to “marry” a chatbot, considering their ongoing anxiety and the nonjudgmental nature of chatbots’ responses.

In June, CBS spoke with individuals in human relationships who also developed feelings for AI, mentioning acceptance and validation as motivations. Now, financial savings contribute as another factor, although men would still need to account for AI subscription fees.