Cheating males in ‘value of loving disaster’ as they’re priced out of affairs

Cheating men are being priced out of affairs by the “cost of loving crisis” with spending on mistresses down by 64%.

Skint lotharios are being forced to cut back on lavish gifts and dirty weekends away because hotels are simply too expensive. Adulterous Casanovas spent an average £6,000-a-year on their secret partners in 2019, according to extra marital affairs dating website Illicit Encounters.

But that has now plunged to just £2,160 in 2024.

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Jessica Leoni, relationship expert at Illicit Encounters, said: “It’s clear from our research the luxuries that used to be associated with extramarital affairs are yet another casualty of today’s financial pressures. Men who once lavished mistresses with luxury breaks and bling are now being forced to cut back, probably to fund increased costs of running their family homes.

“Our members have admitted there has been a massive reduction in the treats and gifts they’re getting from their partners – both male and female. But mistresses especially are definitely taking a hit when it comes to luxuries being lavished on them.”

The unfaithfuls are now focusing on buying essentials such as food and fuel instead of splurging cash on fancy gifts, the firm’s research found.

Ms Leoni added: “It’s not just about the grand gestures anymore. Many men are finding creative, low-cost ways to maintain their relationships.”

Luxury hotel stays were the biggest cost saving for cheats. Spending on plush rooms dropped by 70%, with men now forking out an average £400 per month compared to £1,350 in previous years.

Jewellery has also suffered a 60% reduction. Men who previously spent an average of £1,200 annually on sparkling tokens are now splashing out just £480.

Helen, 45, from London, who has had affairs with more than a dozen married men, said: “I used to get everything – stays at the Ritz, Rolexes, designer handbags, clothes and luxury trips. I’ve noticed a real drop in these treats, which used to go hand-in-hand with affairs, and which were one of the reasons I started having them.

“Even high-flying businessmen are now cutting back. Instead of luxury items like jewellery, fancy lingerie and perfume I now get men offering to help me out with bills and car costs.

“It won’t stop me having affairs as it’s still such a thrill, but mistresses are a forgotten casualty of the cost of living crisis. I hope things pick back up soon.”