Is the cost of a night out keeping young people at home?

The stereotype of a young person has changed beyond recognition in the last few years.

These days, they’re more likely to be found in the gym than the pub and scrolling through TikTok than lining up shots.

And for many, there’s one simple reason: money.

New research from Lamb Weston shows that nearly two-thirds (64%) of 18 to 24-year-olds would rather stay in than go out for the night.

By contrast, just 57% of over-65s prefer staying in.

A night out can be expensive

Richard Whitaker, a 65-year-old from Leeds, meets up with his friends several times a week.

“It’s about socialising with friends,” he said.

“Once you start cutting yourself off, you could end up being a bit of a recluse.”

Nevertheless, he understands why so many young people are staying at home rather than going to the pub.

“It’s an expensive night out these days,” he commented.

“If you want to go into Leeds, it can be £100 by the time you’ve had a few drinks and something to eat and added your taxis in.”

Hattie Dogus, a 21-year-old from Warrington, agrees that money is a big factor.

“A night out can cost anything from £40 per person if you’re going out in a city or in nicer areas,” she stated.

“Prices of drinks are ridiculous.”

Hattie added that she only has a night out once every couple of months and instead prefers to get up early and go for a walk and a coffee.

Young people ‘being priced out of nightlife’

This isn’t just anecdotal - wider research backs it up.

A survey of 18 to 30-year-olds by the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), carried out last year, found that 61% are going out less often.

More than two-thirds (68%) say the economic climate has led to them going on fewer nights out.

And when they do go out, more than half (53%) are spending less.

Michael Kill, chief executive of the NTIA, said: “The results of this research confirm what we in the industry have been warning about for years - young people are being priced out of nightlife.”

Spend time with friends for less

Catching up with friends is one of the great joys in life, but it can often be expensive.

But if you’re worried about what you’re spending, there are cheaper ways to stay connected. 

We’ve put together five ideas so you can socialise without breaking the bank.