Many people making suggestions to you are in or have been in serious relationships. Real advice.
You are making too much out of this. If the first date goes well, a normal girl would probably let you know she is interested in getting to know you better. Maybe the second date will be one you both plan, and maybe she will even chip in or feel it's her turn to pay. How about you get past the first date that is going somewhere and then worry about how much "work" you will have to continue to do. The job may be shared as i have found it to be in my past relationships. In fact, i like to be included in deciding what we do on a date. I also think the financial burden should be shared most of the time. As for your above examples, i don't see what you are talking about as being work. That is why i question your desire to find someone in the first place
Okay a bit off the wall, but has been done many times. Ask her out (work for you), pay for the date (more work) and then run off and elope! No need to plan a second date, lol. Seriously...if the two people are right for each other it won't feel like work. For my last "date" which was also a first date, i had to drive to the airport (1hr), wait for the flight (2hrs), fly to my destination (2hrs.) and drive some more (1hr). Was entirely worth every minute!