It’s been a loooooong time since I was dating, but it seems to me the guy should pay, at least during the early phase. After a while if the relationship grows then you can be a little more casual about it.
And if money’s tight, why not invite her over and prepare a GREAT meal for her. It’s a lot cheaper and done right, the food is better. AND . . . she’s in your house.
Don’t forget to serve wine.
Damn dude, I bet an elderly comic could really rock that plan... ARF!