Love is priceless… or is it? According to Gary Chapman’s The 5 Love Languages, everyone has their own preferred way of giving and receiving love: Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch. But here’s the real question—how much does each one cost?
1. Words of affirmation: free
This love language is all about kind words, compliments, and verbal appreciation. The best part? They say talk is cheap, but… it’s free! A heartfelt ‘You’re the best thing that ever happened to me,’ or a sweet note tucked into your partner’s lunch bag costs nothing.
But if you’re the type to get creative with professional calligraphy classes for handwritten love letters or commissioning a poet for personalized sonnets, the costs can creep up. That’s a whole different article. But for most people, Words of Affirmation is the most budget-friendly love language.
Verdict: Affordable and charmingly low-maintenance.
2. Acts of service: budget-friendly but effort-intensive
Acts of Service means doing things to make your partner’s life easier—think cooking dinner, folding laundry, or running errands. Financially, this love language is a bargain.
But if you start outsourcing those acts of service (like hiring a cleaning service or DoorDashing their favorite meals every night), the expenses can add up. If you stick with DIY you can keep this love language fairly low-cost.
Verdict: Minimal cost, maximum effort.
3. Receiving gifts: cha-ching!
Ah, Receiving Gifts—the love language that basically screams ‘open your wallet.’ From flowers and jewelry to surprise ‘just because’ treats, this one can easily put a dent in your budget if you’re not careful.
But remember that gifts don’t always have to be expensive. A thoughtful, handmade card, a small bouquet, or a favorite snack can mean just as much as a big-ticket item. But let’s face it—if your partner’s love language is gifts, you’ll probably feel pressure to splurge now and then.
Verdict: The bougiest of the love languages. Handle with financial caution!
4. Quality time: priceless (but sometimes pricey)
Spending meaningful time together doesn’t have to cost anything. A simple walk in the park, a cozy night binge-watching your favorite show, or a heartfelt conversation over coffee will do it.
That said, Quality Time can get expensive if you get into fancy date nights, concert tickets, or jetting off to exotic destinations. If your partner equates ‘quality’ with ‘lavish,’ this love language can quickly go neck and neck with Receiving Gifts in terms of cost.
Verdict: Can range from free to fabulously expensive, depending on your vibe.
5. Physical touch: surprisingly budget-friendly
Physical Touch might sound high-maintenance, but it’s one of the easiest and least expensive love languages to accommodate. Cuddling on the couch, holding hands, or giving your partner a back rub costs nothing.
Sure, there are ways to spend money—massages, spa days, or luxury bedding for those snuggle sessions—but the basics of this love language are refreshingly affordable.
Verdict: Wallet-friendly and emotionally rich.
And the winner (or loser) is…
When it comes to which love language is the most expensive, Receiving Gifts takes the crown. That one has a high risk of turning into a financial minefield if you’re not careful. On the flip side, Words of Affirmation and Physical Touch are very budget-friendly, proving that love doesn’t have to carry a hefty price tag.
