The True Cost of Starting Over After Divorce: New Data Shows a $23,880 "Restart Budget" in the First Year - Social Media Explorer
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The True Cost of Starting Over After Divorce: New Data Shows a $23,880 "Restart Budget" in the First Year - Social Media Explorer
"Starting over after a divorce is often framed as an emotional reset - new routines, new homes, and eventually new relationships. But Dellino Family Law Group's new analysis shows that for most Americans, the first year after divorce is also one of the most expensive chapters of their lives. Beyond the average $11,300 legal bill, the study finds that the lifestyle cost of rebuilding amounts to an additional $23,880 in Year One alone."
"One of the biggest surprise costs is re-entering the dating world. Americans spend an average of $213 a month when they begin dating again, which includes everything from drinks to transport to grooming. About a third of singles use dating apps - and many pay for upgrades. Subscriptions such as Hinge+ ($100 for six months) and The League ($400 for three months) quickly add up, especially when used alongside monthly boosts or premium filters."
"There is also a gender gap: men spend about $97 per month on in-person dates, while women spend closer to $40, largely because men more often cover venue and travel costs. Grooming remains nearly equal for both sides. Altogether, dating quietly becomes a recurring budget line while income and routines are still in transition. Another overlooked cost comes from the desire to "refresh" - a wardrobe that feels reflective of a new life stage"
Most Americans face steep expenses during the first year after divorce, including an average $11,300 legal bill plus about $23,880 in lifestyle rebuilding costs. New costs include dating, childcare, therapy, health insurance, housing deposits, moving costs, wardrobe updates, and the slow work of rebuilding credit and stability. Dating alone averages $213 per month and often involves paid app subscriptions and upgrades. Men typically pay more for in-person dates (about $97 vs. $40 for women) while grooming costs are similar. Wardrobe refreshes commonly cost $250–$600 and may repeat seasonally as people rebuild confidence.
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