Battles over earning power mean one in five people have ended, or would consider ending a romantic relationship over differences in salary.

The issue of differing finances often comes to a head as a result of couples failing to address their financial differences, research from Nationwide Building Society claims. 

Mismatched incomes can impact lifestyle expectations, compatibility and even dynamics in friendships.

The poll found half say money is too private to discuss and as a result 23 per cent avoid the subject for fear of judgement or criticism.

Psychotherapist Kamalyn Kaur said: 'Money touches on deeper emotional themes like self-worth, security, and power, so differences in income can easily create imbalance if they aren't discussed openly.

'The higher earner may feel pressure to provide, while the lower earner might experience guilt or a sense of dependence, but without clear communication about expectations and respect for each person's realistic financial contributions, these dynamics can quickly lead to tension or shame around money.'

Meanwhile, 19 per cent say their relationships suffer due to different attitudes towards spending and saving money, and a similar number blamed the pressure of their partner relying on them financially.

These misgivings can have real-world implications for relationships, however, with 42 per cent of people saying they have seen negative consequences of discussing money with their partner, including stress, anxiety and feelings of resentment.

My boyfriend earns much more than me - I feel embarassed

Katie, whose name has been changed, says she feels embarrassed by the difference in earnings between her and her boyfriend.

The 24-year-old marketing executive from London, said: 'Although I've been with my boyfriend for a few years, he earns significantly more than me, which has had an impact.

'The salary difference can cause problems because it can create an unspoken expectation that the higher-earning partner should pay for more, which can feel unfair or create tension over time.

'It can also be quite embarrassing to ask for financial help, especially if one person earns significantly less and worries about seeming dependent or like a burden. It just makes it harder to talk openly.'

Katie says having an open conversation with her partner has helped them to address the salary disparity.

She said: 'We've had to have honest conversations about where to live, and he'll have to compromise on size and location because I can't match what he can spend. 

'Although he's very understanding, I do worry about buying a house together and contributing evenly, and I sometimes feel embarrassed about the income difference.

'Setting clear expectations early, like what expenses we're splitting and what we're keeping separate, has helped us avoid hidden pressure or resentment.

'I also try to be upfront if I need support, framing it as teamwork rather than shame, so we both feel safe discussing money and asking for help when needed.'

How you can address money in your relationships

While many say they have suffered after broaching the topic of finances, a third say doing so has improved their relationship.

Doing so can ensure that your money works towards outcomes you both want, even if your finances are in vastly different places.

Kaur said: 'The healthiest approach is to see money as a shared resource, not a scorecard, a tool to help both partners build a future together.

She said: 'When there's a significant income gap, transparency and teamwork become especially important in a relationship. 

'Rather than splitting everything 50/50, dividing expenses proportionally based on income allows both partners to contribute fairly without fostering resentment. 

'Using income-based percentages, like 40/60, can make discussions about money feel more balanced and reflective of each person's financial situation.

'Open communication about money helps normalise the topic and build trust, while planning ahead for larger expenses - such as birthdays or holidays - allows each partner to adjust their spending in advance and stay aligned with shared financial goals.'

To manage your money together, it can be helpful to open a joint account for shared expenses, but also keep personal accounts separate.

Kaur said: 'Before opening a joint account, it's important to agree on the contribution structure and establish clear guidelines. Setting expectations upfront makes the arrangement smoother and helps prevent conflicts later on.'