The Single Tax: Why Solo Living Costs You More (and How to Fight Back)

"The romantic ideal has become the new religion. Singlehood is seen as a transitional phase—something to escape, not embrace.”

Esther Perel's words ring true for many singles navigating a world seemingly designed for couples. While being single isn't the problem, the way society penalizes it certainly is. From everyday expenses to major life milestones, solo individuals often find themselves paying a premium. Let's call it the "single tax."

The High Cost of Being Single

Why does it feel like everything is cheaper when you're coupled up? Because it often is. From apartment rents to grocery runs, couples frequently benefit from inherent "bulk discounts" while singles are left paying full price.

Housing Costs

Need a one-bedroom apartment because you're over roommates and a studio just won't cut it in your 30s? That $3,000 rent hits you solo. Meanwhile, your coupled neighbors split the cost, effectively paying half. Data cited by Scott Galloway highlights this disparity, showing that the average single adult pays 39% more per square foot than their coupled peers.

Travel Expenses

Ever heard of a "single supplement" surcharge? Hotels, cruises, and resorts are almost always priced for "double occupancy." This forces solo travelers to either absorb the full rate or consider awkward bunking situations. Romantic, right?

Dining and Grocery Costs

Delivery minimums, restaurant deals, and even "value" packs at the grocery store are typically geared toward two or more people. This often means singles are stuck buying larger quantities than they need, leading to leftovers (which isn't always a bad thing!) or, worse, food waste.

Beyond the obvious financial hits, the "single tax" extends to social perks. Coupled individuals often receive more invitations, plus-ones, gifts, and even tax breaks. Singles, on the other hand, are sometimes expected to "understand" that their lives are somehow less urgent, less event-worthy, and, frankly, less worthy overall.

Being Single: Awesome, But Pricey

Then there's the pressure to fund someone else's milestone celebrations when your own often don't come with a registry. Think about the destination wedding scenario: you're invited to a four-day "lovefest" in Mexico, expected to spend thousands, and smile through it all. Yet, the last time you threw a birthday party for yourself, your "ride or dies" barely Venmo'd you for their drink tab. It's a stark reminder of the financial and social imbalances.

Building Wealth as a Single: An Intentional Path

Whether you're single for now or forever, you deserve financial stability and peace of mind. But building wealth on your own requires a radically intentional approach.

And if you do decide to partner up, ensure they're not just taking up space in your bed but actively contributing to your balance sheet. As Vivien Tu (@YourRichBFF) wisely states: “Your partner is either your greatest asset—or your biggest liability.”

Choose the Right Partner

Choose a partner who:

• Understands the power of joint wealth-building, not just joint spending.

• Supports your career and savings goals.

• Doesn't expect you to bankroll their lifestyle.

• Is open to talking about money—transparently and early.

• Supports your goals and, crucially, won't leave you stranded without a career or capital if you divorce (and is okay putting that in a prenup—seriously, protect your future self).

  
  

Ready to master your money and thrive as a single individual? It's all about smart tools and intentional planning.

Your Playbook for Financial Freedom as a Single

Being single doesn't have to mean financial struggle. It simply requires a different playbook. Think of yourself as the CEO, CFO, and entire board of your own life. That means full autonomy and full responsibility.

Strategies for Financial Success

Here’s how to thrive financially as a "table for one":

1. Build "F-You" Money—Aggressively: Start your emergency fund yesterday. As JL Collins puts it, "F-You money" gives you the freedom to walk away from toxic jobs, bad relationships, or anything that drains you. Aim for a minimum of 6–12 months of living expenses.

   
   

2. Automate Everything: No partner to remind you the rent's due? Perfect. That's what automation is for. Set up auto-transfers for:

• Rent

• Credit cards (always pay in full!)

• Roth IRA or solo 401(k)

• High-yield savings account

• Brokerage account contributions



As Tori Dunlap notes, "Automation is the Beyoncé of personal finance—flawless and working while you sleep.”



3. Choose Roommates, Not Rent Overload: If rent is consuming more than 30% of your income, it's time to re-evaluate your living situation. Consider finding a roommate to significantly reduce this burden.

   
   

4. Maximize the “Single Saver” Tax Setup: Take advantage of tax-advantaged accounts designed for individuals:

• Solo 401(k) or SEP IRA: If you freelance or have a side hustle, these are powerful tools.

• Roth IRA: Contribute while your income is lower (there's a phase-out above approximately $161,000 in 2025 for singles).

• HSA (Health Savings Account): This account offers triple tax advantages and is often underutilized.




5. Create a Personal Board of Directors: No spouse to brainstorm life decisions with? That's an opportunity to build a robust support system. Appoint a financial "board"—a trusted CPA, a fee-only financial advisor, a therapist, and a few no-BS friends who will help check your impulse purchases and identify blind spots.

   
   

6. Make a Prenup with Yourself: Even if you’re single, you still need a will, a health care proxy, and a clear plan for your money. Write a letter to your future self outlining:

• Your financial goals

• Your non-negotiables (e.g., "no dating broke narcissists again, please")

• What you will and won't give up for love




7. Insure Your Peace: Health insurance, disability insurance, renter’s insurance, and life insurance (if someone depends on you financially) are non-negotiable. Single individuals don't have a spouse's income stream as a backup, so you must create your own robust safety net.

   
   

As Vivien Tu aptly puts it: “Being single isn’t a financial disadvantage. It’s a blank slate—if you’re bold enough to fill it with wealth.”

The Bottom Line

Yes, the cost of being single is real and can be frustrating. But so is your power to change the game.

Set clear boundaries. If you choose to partner up, pick someone who truly builds with you. And most importantly, celebrate your own milestones like they matter—because they absolutely do.

Whether you're solo or partnered, remember this: Wealth isn’t just about money. It’s about choice. And the ability to walk away—from bad deals, bad dates, and bad situations—is the ultimate power move.

What steps are you taking to build your financial autonomy as a single person?