The Growing Cost of Independence

For 39-year-old Marni Trevena, the dream of a traditional path—marriage, children, and a shared mortgage—didn't materialize. Instead, she is navigating the financial realities of adulthood solo. While managing a household on a single income is tough enough, Trevena is also grappling with what economists and social advocates call the "singles tax"—the substantial premium individuals pay when they cannot split everyday expenses like rent, utilities, and insurance.

“Having to pay for everything on your own with only one income is incredibly difficult,” Trevena says. “The economic pressure is relentless. Sometimes it feels like we are living in a society completely designed for couples.”

What is the 'Singles Tax'?

The term does not refer to an official government levy, but rather the structural financial disadvantage of living alone. With single-person households projected to represent up to 28 percent of all Australian homes within the next two decades, the issue is becoming impossible to ignore. Crucially, more than half of those living alone are women, with roughly 50 percent of that group aged 65 or older.

Social scientist Dr. Bella DePaulo, author of Single At Heart, coined the term "singleism" to describe the systemic marginalisation of unpartnered people. “Most places around the world view couples and families as the default norm, treating single people as outliers,” DePaulo explains. She notes that this bias influences everything from social circles to government policy, leaving single people historically ignored by decision-makers.

By the Numbers: The Cost of Going Solo

The financial disparity between couples and singles is stark. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) indicates that the average single-person household spends approximately $2,835 per month on living costs. In comparison, couples spend a combined average of $4,118—which breaks down to just $2,059 per person. That leaves single people paying an extra $776 every month just to keep a roof over their heads.

The disadvantage compounds over time. According to the 2026 Finder Singles Tax Report, the average partnered Australian has $50,192 in savings, whereas the average single person has saved just $30,932—a gap of nearly $19,260. Academic research from RMIT also suggests singles pay around 3.5 percent more on everyday goods and services than partnered consumers.

Strategies to Beat the Single Premium

Financial educator Lacey Filipich, founder of Money School, says the premium is most visible in fixed costs and travel, where solo travelers are often penalized. However, she warns against partnering up purely for financial stability. “Choosing the wrong partner is one of the most expensive mistakes a person can make,” Filipich notes. “Paying the singles tax is far better than rushing into an incompatible relationship.”

Instead, Filipich advises singles to focus on strategies within their control:

• Build a Larger Cash Buffer: Without a partner’s income to fall back on during job loss or emergencies, singles should aim for a more robust safety net than double-income households.
• Aggressively Review Fixed Costs: Regularly compare utility providers, insurance policies, and subscriptions. Filipich’s golden rule is simple: "Don't ask? Don't get."
• Optimize Tax Planning: Take advantage of legitimate tax deductions, voluntary super contributions, and consult a qualified accountant to structure financial affairs efficiently.
• Utilize Free Support: For those feeling overwhelmed by debt or rising costs, national financial counsellors offer free, confidential support to help regain control.

A Call for Representation

For advocates like Trevena, the conversation is about fairness and recognition. She argues that cost-of-living relief programs are routinely tailored for families, leaving single people out in the cold. While she acknowledges her own relative security as a homeowner with family support, she feels compelled to speak up for those who are struggling in silence.

“Single people without traditional partners and children are a rapidly growing segment of the population,” Trevena says. “We shouldn’t be ignored by policymakers anymore. We deserve to be factored into the equation.”