Couples might be ditching dinner out this Valentine’s to eat at home
The price of eating out, and other Cupid’s day mainstays like flowers and chocolate, have soared in the past year.
In case you missed all the loosely love-linked marketing promos, it’s Valentine’s Day tomorrow — a commercial holiday with vague third-century origins that 56% of US adults enjoy “about as much as an average day,” per a recent YouGov survey.
Still, for the 37% share of old romantics who do plan on celebrating, the cost of splashing out on swoon-worthy Valentine’s plans and gifts might end up a little more eyebrow-raising this year.
Love don’t cost a thing...
According to analysis from The Century Foundation, the price of Valentine’s staples are up more than 15% on average in 2026 compared to last year, with heart-shaped candies up 8%, rose bouquets rising 16%, and a box of assorted chocolates up a jaw-dropping 27%.
Per the report, those dining out with their dates can expect to spend over $200, as restaurant prices have risen at nearly twice the rate of grocery prices in the past year — maybe that’s why Google search volumes for “valentines recipe” have surged past queries for “romantic restaurant” so far this month.
Cooking up a storm for your sweetheart will still set you back a bit: the price of a ribeye steak is up 25% from last year, and the National Retail Federation has forecast record spending despite growing interest in more affordable rendezvous. But, in any case, it’ll probably be cheaper to remember to do something than fork out for last-minute flowers.
