Hinge CEO: The Cost of Living Crunch Is Changing How We Date

Hinge CEO: The Cost of Living Crunch Is Changing How We Date

From Big Boss Interview by BBC News

June 3, 2026 · 58 min

About this episode

Jackie Jantos discusses how the cost of living is reshaping dating habits and the role of AI in online dating.

(Episode 42) Jackie Jantos, CEO of Hinge, says the cost of living is reshaping dating habits, with daytime meet-ups becoming more common and traditional drinks dates becoming less popular as younger people look for cheaper ways to meet in person. She argues that AI should help users express themselves rather than speak on their behalf, rejecting suggestions that AI is making online dating less authentic. Hinge has introduced a range of AI-powered tools, including features that help users improve profiles, start conversations and reconsider potentially offensive messages before sending them. Jantos defends these interventions, saying they encourage reflection rather than creating a filtered version of users online. Jantos says it "breaks her heart" that some young people are turning to AI chatbots for emotional support instead of confiding in friends, arguing that difficult conversations and human connection remain essential parts of building relationships. She points to research showing high levels of loneliness among Gen Z and says younger generations are spending significantly less time together in person than previous cohorts. Jantos also discusses the wider dating-app…

People in this episode

Host: Sean Farrington

Guest: Jackie Jantos

Topics covered

  • cost of living
  • dating habits
  • AI in dating
  • Gen Z loneliness
  • dating apps
  • human connection

Keywords

  • Hinge
  • dating
  • AI tools
  • Gen Z
  • loneliness
  • dating apps
  • cost of living

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Hinge, BBC News

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