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Gen Z Says We’re in a ‘Crush Recession.’ Here’s Why Nobody Wants to Date Anymore.

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08.06.2026

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Gen Z Says We’re in a ‘Crush Recession.’ Here’s Why Nobody Wants to Date Anymore.

Dating app fatigue, financial stress, fear of rejection, and modern hookup culture are making many singles feel disconnected from romance.

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The economy has gotten so bad that many modern daters feel like they can’t even afford to have a crush. Gen Z is calling this a “crush recession.”

Due to a variety of factors, from pricy first dates to swiping fatigue to risk aversion, many singles now view romance as either a luxury or an inconvenience. One perspective makes it seem appealing yet unattainable, while the other leaves a bad taste in our mouths. Either way, dating doesn’t have the same positive connotation it once had.

I spoke with a therapist about the troubling phenomenon of a dating recession—and the factors that are driving it. 

What Is a Crush Recession?

According to  Dr. Alexandra Foglia, DMFT, Director of Family Programs at All in Solutions, “[A] ‘crush recession’........

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