I don't know. I'm a pretty black-and-white kind of guy. Unless you're in a poly or open relationship with your wife, then it sounds to me like you are looking for validation to cheat on her.
I will say this, if you are allowed some kind of hall pass, an escort actually might be better than meeting up with someone you meet via Grindr, A4A, or whatever dating app. To a male escort, this is a job. Once the service and money have been exchanged, you part ways and go back to your respective lives. There's little to no risk of him becoming a part of your circle.
You may say this is a discreet way to indulge, but eventually, someone will find out. You have to be ready to deal with that mess.