17 Dating Apps and Websites Tailored for Singles Over 50
These days, online dating has really taken off as a popular way to meet new people. In the last ten years, dating apps and websites have become hugely popular. By 2028, experts think more than 65 million people will be using these apps—up from 40 million in 2018. This trend seems to be growing as more people enjoy the ease and wide reach of digital dating.
Interestingly, it's not just younger folks who are getting into online dating. A growing number of older adults are also joining the digital dating scene. In fact, about one in six Americans over 50 has tried dating apps at some point. Usage varies by age, with around 23% in their 50s, 14% in their 60s, and 12% in their 70s or older. This growing trend highlights that finding love online is not just for the younger crowd.
Dating Platforms for Older Adults
1. OurTime: This platform is designed with older users in mind and is accessible via both app and desktop. When you sign up for OurTime, it prioritizes showing local profiles before long-distance ones. The basic account is free and allows you to browse profiles, send flirts, and use features like the Flirt button to express interest. Upgraded options include sending virtual gifts or boosting your profile's visibility in searches. While the site is aimed at those 50 and older, it does feature profiles of younger users as well. Subscription plans start at $30 for one month and $70 for three months.
2. SilverSingles: Unlike some dating apps that rely on swiping, SilverSingles uses a personality questionnaire to match users. After completing the quiz, you receive five curated matches daily. The site claims that 40% of its users are over 50. A basic membership is free, but if you want more features, premium packages start at $24.95 per month for a 12-month plan.
3. DateMyAge: Targeting individuals over 40, this app provides users with basic profile information like headshots and ages for free. Clicking on a profile reveals details about what that person is looking for and where they live. However, users in the U.S. may find it challenging to pinpoint exact locations due to the lack of state information. The app offers features such as live broadcasts and video chats, with premium packages starting at $22.99 for the first month.
Dating Apps for a General Audience
4. Bumble: This app gives women the power to initiate conversations. It's a swipe-based platform where users swipe right to indicate interest. If a match is made, women have 24 hours to start a chat before the connection expires. Bumble also includes Bumble BFF for making friends and Bumble Biz for professional networking. While basic features are free, premium options like Bumble Boost cost $14.99 per month, and Bumble Premium, which includes additional features, costs $17.99 per month.
5. Coffee Meets Bagel: This app limits users to five likes per day and encourages real-life meetups within seven days of matching. It aims to prevent ghosting and uses an algorithm to suggest potential matches. Basic use is free, but premium features, such as additional matches and profile boosting, start at $9 to $20 depending on the package.
6. eHarmony: Known for its comprehensive matching process, eHarmony is popular among all age groups. It uses an in-depth questionnaire to pair users based on compatibility. If you don't find a serious relationship within six months, eHarmony offers an additional six months free. Plans start at $7.95 per month, depending on the subscription length and current promotions.
7. Facebook Dating: This service operates separately from your main Facebook account, so your friends won't see your dating activity. Facebook Dating uses your existing photos and information to create a dating profile and shows matches with shared interests. It's free to use and doesn't have ads, making it a good option for older users, as Facebook has a significant user base over 45.
8. Hinge: Focused on fostering meaningful connections, Hinge emphasizes interests and personality traits. The app's design encourages users to answer questions about their lives, which helps in finding compatible matches. Hinge offers a subscription called Preferred, which costs $34.99 per month and includes features like unlimited likes and advanced preferences.
9. Match: As one of the oldest dating services, Match continues to be a leading platform. It offers a mix of app and web-based access and provides curated match suggestions based on detailed profiles. Match's premium plan starts at $22.99 per month, and the service includes a satisfaction guarantee.
10. OkCupid: Known for its inclusive options, OkCupid allows users to select from various gender and orientation identities. It features a quick questionnaire to find matches and has recently added a “Pro-choice” badge option. Basic services are free, while upgraded features start at $22.50 per month.
11. Tinder: Once primarily associated with casual dating, Tinder is now widely used by all age groups. Users swipe to connect, and the app allows you to set age ranges to refine your search. While basic features are free, paid plans like Tinder Plus and Tinder Gold offer additional functionalities, starting at $7.99 per month.
12. Zoosk: Zoosk integrates with Facebook, making sign-up easier but sharing some social media information. The app allows users to browse profiles and use features like photo verification. Basic use is free, but messaging requires a subscription starting at $29.95 for one month.
Dating Services Focused on Religion
13. JDate: This site caters specifically to Jewish singles and offers a platform for both browsing and receiving curated matches. Users must indicate their level of Jewish religious identity, and subscriptions start at $19.99 per month.
14. ChristianMingle: Designed for Christians seeking faith-centered relationships, ChristianMingle features extensive profiles and daily match suggestions. Registration is free, but messaging requires a subscription, starting at $33 per month.
Apps for LGBTQ+ Daters
15. HER: Aimed at LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary individuals, HER allows users to swipe through profiles and offers social features beyond dating. Premium memberships, which include ad removal and additional privacy options, start at $11.67 per month.
16. Grindr: Catering to gay men, Grindr facilitates quick matches and in-app photo sharing. The app supports both casual and serious connections. Premium profiles start at $12.99 for one week.
Apps for Specific Communities
17. BLK: Targeting Black singles, BLK focuses on creating meaningful connections within the Black community. It allows users to swipe through profiles and offers an Elite membership for extra features, starting at $17.99 per week.
With such a variety of dating apps and websites available, finding the right one for your needs can make a significant difference in your search for a meaningful connection. Whether you're looking for a general platform or one tailored to your specific interests or age group, these options provide ample opportunities to meet someone special.