"There aren’t many things that I consider equally as frustrating and draining as they are exciting and rewarding, but dating is, without a doubt, at the top of that list. Because of this, it’s not surprising that we saw plenty of people take a step back from dating in 2024—both online and IRL. 2024 was the “year of self,” according to Bumble, so singles spent most of the year looking inward to find what they value most. Now, after a year of reflection, they are ready to get back out there and look for people who align with their interests, values, goals, and future.
Looking ahead, Bumble says that 2025 is set to be “a transitional year for dating,” as people are planning on dating more transparently. They are unafraid to be exactly who they are (finally!) and are craving real connections. With a new year mere days away, 2025 dating trends from all of our favorite platforms are here. And because of the shift we are seeing in singles being unapologetic about what they want out of life and a partnership, there is a refreshed sense of hope in the air. Will 2025 be the best year for dating we’ve seen so far? We’re thinking so. Let’s dive in:
Singles are prioritizing long-term compatibility
Dating is fun and all, but the point of it (for most people) is to find someone you want to stay with for the long haul. In 2025, singles are prioritizing long-term compatibility by “Future-Proofing” from the jump, according to Bumble. This means they aren’t waiting to ask personal questions or bring up traditionally taboo topics; conversations about things like budgeting, housing, climate change, politics, and job ambitions are all fair game so you can get a sense of who someone is and what they prioritize.
“Daters are looking for authenticity in 2025, and to find something authentic, daters need to get real about what’s important to them, including understanding their non-starters,” says Laurel House, an eharmony dating and relationship expert. Non-starters, or traits in someone that make a relationship feel impossible, can be identified early by “Future-Proofing.” For example, if you can’t stand people who think climate change is a hoax (a non-starter), you better bring up the fact that you’re passionate about it on the first date.
The way I see it, the sooner you get to know someone, the better. The last thing you want to do is waste each other’s time. While it’s not realistic to be on the same page about everything, tackling important topics early on can help you gain a better understanding of someone and test your long-term connection.
More people are being open about what they want
I’m excited to finally say that mixed signals are a thing of the past. In 2025, more people will be “Loud Looking,” according to Tinder, meaning they plan to honestly communicate about what they want. So whether you’re dating to find an after-hours partner only or a long-term commitment, finding the right person is all about “knowing exactly what you want and not being shy about saying it,” says Devyn Simone, Tinder’s Resident Dating Expert. “Loud looking is about being intentional and confident in pursuing the type of connection you want,” Simone adds. Obviously, you’re way more likely to find what you’re looking for when you’re upfront. Not to mention, you’re less likely to hurt someone’s feelings who isn’t on the same page.
So, if you’re on the apps, make sure you write whether you’re looking for something casual or serious in your profile. If you’re not sure what someone else wants, don’t be afraid to ask so you don’t waste your time. There is no more pretending or stringing people along in 2025, which, if you ask me, is a long overdue change.
Singles are looking for partners who share niche interests
We saw a rise in micro-communities (looking at you, run club!) and fandoms (anyone else obsessed with Chappell Roan?) in 2024, and that is directly reflected in how singles plan to date in 2025. “On The Same (Fan) Page” and “Freak Matching” are both said to be top trends for the year ahead, as singles are looking for someone who shares the same interests. Basically, they are ready to geek out unapologetically with someone who gets it. “Not only does this help identify partners, start conversations, and build compatibility, but half (49 percent) of Gen Z singles agree that geeking out on something together is a form of intimacy,” says Bumble.
So, my advice here is obvious: Don’t be afraid to let your freak flag fly in 2025. Whether you’re a die-hard cold plunger or a crochet queen, leaning into your passions and interests, no matter how niche or weird they are, can help you find a partner. If you prefer the apps to IRL dating, add your interests to your profile or filter your search by interests. If you prefer IRL interactions, strike up a conversation with someone who is in the same bookstore as you or someone who is taking the same pottery class. Odds are, you’re more likely to hit it off.
Singles are no longer running away from someone’s icks
Getting the “ick” is so 2024. In 2025, Plenty of Fish says that singles are “StICKing,” which means they are “looking past an initial ‘ick’ and pursuing someone romantically despite any superficial oddities.” Because yes, going on a date with someone who is practically perfect for you is a good idea, even if they have a man bun. Now, this doesn’t mean that you should sacrifice attraction. However, it does mean that if you’re getting turned off by something as simple as the shoes someone wears, you might need to get a grip.
Tinder says that singles are craving a relationship that thrives on natural magnetism, wit, and chemistry, so stop sweating the small stuff. Take the time to really get to know someone before writing them off. In your search for a partner, be more open-minded and willing to date outside of your typical type. If you want to find someone who accepts you for exactly who you are, it’s time to do the same.
More people are embracing romance in a new way
According to Bumble, romance is making a comeback in 2025, which is music to my ears as someone who loves love. But instead of grand gestures, expect to see “Micro-mance.” This term describes expressing your feelings through smaller gestures that have a big impact. Think: sharing inside jokes, going on morning coffee walks, and sharing a playlist. Because sometimes it’s the little things that prove someone cares about you.
While I love swoon-worthy TV moments just as much as the next person, don’t wait for someone to hold a boombox over their head. It’s not that chivalry is dead, but our idea of what it should look like is changing. Bringing someone their favorite coffee order, picking up their favorite snack from the grocery store, and saying things like, “This song reminds me of you,” are small, meaningful, romantic moments that you shouldn’t ignore in 2025.
Fewer people are relying solely on apps
With more and more happening online these days, it’s surprising to hear that fewer people are interested in online dating. But in the age of AI, meeting someone online feels like leaving the future of your love life up to an algorithm. Not to mention, the sheer number of fake profiles is alarming. In 2025, we are seeing a shift in how and where people date. This means that you can expect to see more speed-dating events pop up in your area, hear more stories about people being set up on a blind date, and even overhear two people chatting it up in line at the grocery store. This doesn’t mean that the apps are about to become a dead zone (quite the opposite); it just means that more people are open to other avenues of finding a partner.
So, whether you are feeling burnt out from the apps or you’re curious about what opportunities are out there, you’re definitely not alone. Try something new this year, be exactly who you are, shoot your shot IRL, ask your friends to set you up, and look up from your phone every now and then—you never know what kind of meet-cute will await.
Hailey Bouche, Associate Editor
As an Associate Editor for The Everygirl, Hailey Bouche oversees, writes, and edits content across various categories on the site. From the pitching stage through publishing, she works alongside the team to ensure that the content that our readers see every day is inspiring, relatable, and timely.