Why single Aussies are less happy than couples: and no, it’s not loneliness
Key takeaways
- According to Finder's Single Tax Report, 61% of single people reported feeling happy, compared to 82% of those with a partner.
- Rent, groceries and utilities were the most challenging cost of living expenses for both married and single Australians.
- What's next: Single Aussies can still make small changes to help them make the most of their budget.
If you're single and reading this, we have some potentially unsurprising news for you.
According to Finder's Singles Tax Report, only 61% of single Australians say they're happy, compared to 82% of those with a partner. Which means if you're currently unattached, there's roughly a one in three chance you're not having a great time.
To be fair, it's probably not the being single part that's the problem.
It's more likely the part where you're paying full price for rent, groceries and utilities while your coupled-up friends are splitting everything down the middle and quietly building their savings at twice the speed.
But hey, at least we have full control of the TV remote.
What the numbers say
The data found the average single spends $165 per week on groceries, while those with a partner spent $237. While couples reportedly spend more, the cost per person is still cheaper than a single footing the bill entirely.
Taking a closer look at rent, figures from the ABC found the average one bedroom apartment in Bankstown was $510 per week. A two-bedroom apartment in the same area was $555 per week.
If we assume the rent is split in half in the two bedroom unit, each individual would contribute $277.50 each.
Social costs were another area the report looked at, highlighting the hefty financial demand single Aussies face when celebrating another person's milestones.
For example, Finder's research found the average cost of being a wedding guest in 2025 was $2,593, factoring travel, accommodation, outfits and gifts, most of which can be split between two people.
3 ways single Aussies can master their finances
- Make your savings work harder. Singles are saving $435 less per month than couples on average, so every dollar counts. Park your savings in a high-interest account and look for ways to trim your biggest expense. Even small cuts can compound over time.
- Travel smarter, not cheaper. Solo travel doesn't have to mean expensive travel. Opt for hostels or shared accommodation, travel during shoulder season and look into group tours where solo travellers can split costs without compromising on the experience.
- Give your finances an audit. As a single person, there's no second set of eyes on your spending, which makes it even more important to check in on your own. Twice a year, go through your subscriptions, insurance policies, bank accounts and bills to make sure you're still on the best deal. You might be surprised how much you're leaving on the table.
See all of the insights in the full Singles Tax Report.
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