From Profiles to Partnerships: Understanding Online Dating Trends Through Data

It’s safe to say that the world has entered its digital age—computers, apps, programs, and artificial intelligence have taken over just about every aspect of human functioning, including our work and social lives. When it comes to dating, things are no different. Over the past few years, more and more people have turned to online dating apps and platforms in an attempt to meet their significant other.

In fact, statistics show that digital match-making is slowly becoming the largest driving force behind dating for people of all ages. We’ve compiled a list of some of the key statistics involved with online dating, including what the most successful online dating app is, how many couples have been matched online, and how many people use these platforms every single day.

Match is the Most Successful App with Nearly 40 Million Users

When it comes to popularity, Match is by far the most successful online dating app around. Many people have heard of other popular platforms, such as Tinder or Bumble, but Match is head-and-shoulders above the competition in terms of user experience.

The app was originally launched in 1995 and has been steadily growing its user base ever since. With 39.7 million active users worldwide, it’s no surprise that more and more people are turning to Match.

There are over 8000 Active Dating Apps

There are currently just over 7500 active online dating apps and websites worldwide. This includes a whopping 2500 in the United States of America alone.

On top of your most popular platforms, such as Match and eHarmony, there are also apps specifically designed for redheads, business people, clowns, and even sea captains. In other words, there is a dating app for just about everyone and every preference.

More than 50% of Online Daters Enjoy their Experience

Because of catfishing, online dating has developed somewhat of a bad reputation. However, this is becoming less of an issue, as these dating apps have started using technology and people to properly verify online dating accounts before they can be seen by other users.

Because of this, more online daters are satisfied with their experience when using these platforms. In fact, recent statistics show us that more than 50% of users would recommend online dating to others. Interestingly enough, daters with a Bachelor’s degree or higher tend to enjoy their experience more than people who do not have further education.

It is worth noting that 45% of online daters claim that the experience made them feel frustrated. With that being said, dating, in general, can be frustrating, so take that statistic with a pinch of salt.

66% of Users Date Someone They Met Online

The main reason why online dating has become so popular in recent years is the fact that it can actually work. There are plenty of success stories out there when it comes to couples who met online, started dating, and ended up falling in love.

In fact, statistics show that almost two-thirds of people who use online dating apps end up going on a date with someone that they meet online. Of course, this doesn’t mean that 66% of people find love online, but going on a first date is always a good place to start.

Nearly 22% of Marriages Begin Online

According to a survey done by The Knot, 22% of couples who married last year originally met online. This is a massive jump when compared to the previous year. Additionally, this percentage is higher than the number of people who met in school, at work, or through friends.

The main reason for the success of online dating is the fact that you can get very specific with your needs and wants. For example, if you are looking for a serious relationship, you will only match with people who feel the same way.

One-fifth of Committed Relationships Began Online

According to statistics, online dating is the place to go if you are looking for a committed relationship. Statistic Brain released a survey that indicates roughly 20% of committed couples originally met through an online dating platform.

18-24 Year-Olds Make Up the Majority of Online Daters

PEW claims that young adults (people between the ages of 18 and 24) tend more towards online dating apps than the older demographics. In fact, 27% of current online daters are a part of this age category. In comparison, 22% are 25 to 34; 21% are 35 to 44; 13% are 45 to 54; 12% are 55 to 64, and 3% are 65+.

This may be due to the fact that older generations have already met their significant others through more traditional methods. As technology is generally more popular amongst the youth, it only makes sense that they are more open-minded when it comes to online dating.