A new survey by Northwestern Mutual reveals that single adults in the U.S. expect potential partners to earn an average of $139,000 annually, with Millennials setting the highest bar at $160,000. Gen Z respondents preferred an ideal income of $135,000, while older generations such as Gen X and Boomers set expectations at $123,000 and $125,000 respectively, according to fortune.com.
The survey, which included respondents aged 18 and older, asked participants to state realistic income expectations for potential partners. Millennials, aged 30 to 45, led the group with the highest income aspirations, reflecting their career stage and earning potential. Gen Z, younger and earlier in their careers, set a slightly lower benchmark. Older generations showed more modest expectations, aligning with their median earnings and life stages, as detailed by fortune.com.
These income expectations contrast with median earnings data from the St. Louis Fed analyzed by Investopedia, which shows median annual salaries ranging from $59,800 for ages 25 to 34, to about $72,000 for those aged 35 to 44. The gap between ideal partner earnings and actual median incomes highlights changing economic aspirations and the importance of financial stability in partner selection across generations, per fortune.com.
The survey underscores shifting economic priorities among singles in the U.S., with Millennials notably raising the income bar for potential partners. This data was published on September 2, 2026, by fortune.com, reflecting current attitudes toward income and relationships.