So in your pretty face, smug bitch!

Yes but she probably earns far more than the £4794 to cover the annual single person premium.

Given how much another survey recently claimed it cost to er... go from being single to not single, for a man, I don't think I mind too much. I've been both at various points in my life and I can generally say I've had more disposable income when I was on my own. I've never shared a mortgage though, that would be a major saving. However it also means if it all goes pear shaped you've got no roof over your head, so...

Jon

There are definite swings and roundabouts being single as opposed to being in a couple. The real problem is picking someone that you can tolerate and will not drive you mad. Looking at the divorce statistics many have that problem.

Call me old-fashioned but I think I'll pick someone I love. That's a very different thing.

So it costs quarter of a million to be single.

What about the emotional and psychological cost?

Heartless journo bastards.

Hard to quantify, although I do remember seeing something that suggested women who were in relationships for most of their lives tended to live longer, while the reverse was true for men.

Yeah, statistically true. Studies were done on marriage.

Yes but take love as an essential. Though if you love someone but they drive you up the wall do you think that it is a good thing to be together? Hence tolerate supplementary requirement.

Been there. Done that. Buried them under the patio.

Love and passion are wonderful things, but friendship and understanding are pretty critical if it's not all going to end badly. I'm not looking for a "nice boat" ending.

I have had GF's that were adorable, gorgeous, whatever, but Christ, did they drive me up the wall! Friendship is an important requirement. I have had friends who have moved in with GF's who they have very little in common with and regret it.