Your Valentine's Budget
$183
vs Average
-$17
Categories
4
Biggest
Dinner
Enter $0 for categories you're skipping.
Roses, bouquets, plants
Restaurant, takeout, cooking at home
Necklaces, rings, watches
Chocolate boxes, sweets, treats
Clothing, perfume, tech, books
Shows, spa, cooking class, trip
Greeting cards, wrapping, decor
Pet treats, toys, outfits
According to the National Retail Federation, the average American will spend $199.78 on Valentine's Day in 2026 — a record high. Total US spending is projected at $29.1 billion. Men spend nearly twice as much as women on average. Consumers aged 35-54 with household incomes above $100K spend the most, often exceeding $220 per person.
| Demographic | Average Spend | Share of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Men | $291 | 58% |
| Women | $106 | 42% |
| Ages 25-34 | $207 | 22% |
| Ages 35-44 | $259 | 28% |
| Ages 45-54 | $221 | 20% |
| Income $100K+ | $283 | 35% |
For a new relationship (under 6 months): $25-60 is appropriate — something thoughtful without pressure. Dating 6-12 months: $50-100. In a committed relationship or married: $100-250 is typical. The key is matching your gift to the relationship stage. Overspending early can create awkward expectations, while underspending in a long relationship may disappoint.
| Relationship Stage | Suggested Budget | Gift Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| First date / <3 months | $15-30 | Card, chocolate, single flower |
| Dating 3-6 months | $25-60 | Small bouquet, nice dinner |
| Dating 6-12 months | $50-100 | Dinner out, experience, gift |
| Committed / 1-3 years | $100-200 | Jewelry, weekend trip, spa |
| Married / Long-term | $100-250+ | Meaningful experience or lasting gift |
The top categories by spending are: jewelry ($6.5 billion total), dining out ($6.3 billion), flowers ($2.9 billion), clothing ($2.7 billion), candy and chocolate ($2.5 billion), gift cards ($2.3 billion), and greeting cards ($1.5 billion). 32% of people also buy gifts for friends, 19% for coworkers, and 32% for pets.
| Category | Total US Spending | Average Per Buyer | % Buying |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jewelry | $6.5 billion | $54 | 22% |
| Dining Out | $6.3 billion | $85 | 55% |
| Flowers | $2.9 billion | $48 | 37% |
| Clothing | $2.7 billion | $42 | 21% |
| Candy/Chocolate | $2.5 billion | $30 | 57% |
| Gift Cards | $2.3 billion | $35 | 19% |
| Greeting Cards | $1.5 billion | $7 | 40% |
The average person spends $48.49 on flowers for Valentine's Day. A dozen red roses typically costs $50-80 at a florist or $25-40 at a grocery store. Prices spike 30-50% the week of February 14th. Ordering 1-2 weeks early or choosing alternative flowers (tulips, lilies) saves 20-40%. The average bouquet ordered online costs $65-85 with delivery.
A Valentine's Day dinner for two averages $100-150 at a mid-range restaurant, $200-400 at upscale restaurants, and $30-60 cooking at home. Restaurant prices increase 15-25% on February 14th due to prix fixe menus and special pricing. Dining out on February 13th or 15th can save 20-30%. The average person budgets $75-100 for a special evening out.
| Dinner Option | Cost for Two | Savings vs Fine Dining |
|---|---|---|
| Cook at home (steak + wine) | $30-60 | $140-340 saved |
| Casual restaurant | $60-90 | $110-310 saved |
| Mid-range restaurant | $100-150 | $100-250 saved |
| Fine dining | $200-400 | Baseline |
| Dine Feb 13 or 15 (mid-range) | $75-115 | $25-35 saved vs Feb 14 |
Smart strategies: 1) Order flowers 1-2 weeks early (save 30-50%), 2) Dine out on Feb 13 or 15 instead (save 20-30%), 3) Cook a special dinner at home ($30-60 vs $100-150+), 4) Choose experiences over things (picnic, stargazing, couples cooking), 5) Buy chocolate after Valentine's Day at 50-75% off for a delayed gift, 6) Set a mutual budget with your partner to avoid overspending.
Inputs
Result
A classic Valentine's date: roses ($50), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($100 for two), and a box of chocolates ($30). This is 10% below the $200 national average. Cooking at home instead of dining out could save $60-70.
Inputs
Result
A luxury Valentine's: jewelry ($200), upscale dinner ($150 for two), premium flower delivery ($65), and a couples activity ($35). At $450, this is 2.25x the national average. Ordering flowers 2 weeks early saves $20+, and dining on Feb 13 saves $30+.
Inputs
Result
A thoughtful Valentine's on a budget: cook a special dinner at home ($30), nice chocolate ($15), handmade card ($5), single rose or wildflowers ($5). Saves $145 compared to the national average while still being romantic.
Total = Σ (Amount per Category) for All RecipientsSum up planned spending across all categories (flowers, dinner, gifts, etc.) for each person you're buying for to get your total Valentine's Day budget.
Where:
Category Amount= Planned spending in each category (flowers, dinner, jewelry, etc.)Recipients= Number of people you're buying for (partner, friends, family, pets)Difference % = ((Your Budget - $200) ÷ $200) × 100Shows how your Valentine's Day spending compares to the 2026 national average of $199.78 per person.
Where:
Your Budget= Your total planned Valentine's Day spending ($)$200= 2026 national average per person (NRF data)Americans will spend a record $29.1 billion on Valentine's Day 2026 — an average of $199.78 per person. That's up from $188.81 in 2025 and nearly double what was spent a decade ago. This calculator helps you plan a thoughtful Valentine's Day that fits your budget, whether you're spending $50 or $500.
The biggest spending categories are jewelry ($6.5B), dining out ($6.3B), and flowers ($2.9B). But Valentine's Day isn't just for romantic partners anymore — 32% of consumers buy gifts for friends, 19% for coworkers, and 32% even buy something for their pets. This calculator lets you budget for everyone on your Valentine's list.
The smartest Valentine's Day spending isn't about the total — it's about allocation. Research shows experiences (a special dinner, a trip, an activity) create more lasting happiness than material gifts. This calculator helps you balance tangible gifts with experiences to maximize the impact of every dollar.
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Last Updated: Feb 13, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.