Deciding to re-enter the dating world can be a nerve-wracking experience at any age, but if you’re in your 40s, the risks may be even greater.
You might think that people in your age group aren’t interested in dating or are already in long-term relationships, but a recent Pew Research Center analysis of Census Bureau data found that as of 2021, about 25% of people in their 40s in the U.S. are unmarried. Additionally, only 22% of unmarried adults ages 40 to 44 are in cohabiting couples.
Dating predictions for the rest of 2024
So have people in their 40s given up on finding love? Not at all. In fact, an analysis by the Pew Research Center found that about one in four 40-year-olds who weren’t married in 2001 are married by age 60. But unlike those in their 20s and 30s, single people over 40 know what they want, and they’re not afraid to wait a little longer to find the right match.
How to start dating again at 40
Now, after this speech and statistic, you’re probably wondering what our grand plan is to get you on the dance floor. The answer? Online dating. Before you scoff, hear us out.
Online dating is a great way to meet new people in a low-pressure environment. The best dating sites for over 40 make it easy to connect with potential partners. You can filter profiles to find people who share your interests and values. Imagine if you could do that while scanning the room at a party. It saves you a lot of time and effort.
But before you download a ton of apps, Kiana Reeves, somatic sex educator, intimacy coach, and chief education officer at Foria , suggests taking a moment to reflect: “You join a dating site because you’re looking for connection, whether that’s in the form of a serious relationship, a casual fling, or something in between. With that in mind, it’s important to identify what type of connection you’re looking for before joining a dating site, app, or anything like that.”
Bored with casual dating? Try out the best dating apps for serious relationships
Next, think about your approach to online dating, says Reeves: “Are you looking for a casual swipe site to meet people in a new city? Are you the type who likes to take the initiative? Are you looking for someone who is only interested in a serious relationship? Are you looking for someone who shares your faith? How much time are you willing to devote to a relationship?”
Once you’ve nailed down your dating goals, Reeves recommends “joining a few apps to see what kind of user experience works best for you,” and, of course, if you’re not sure, it’s totally fine to just join one,” she adds.
Are you ready to find love after 40? Or are you looking for a no-pressure sex partner? We’re here to help. As data nerds, we’ve done the research, gathered expert advice, and done lots of hands-on testing to find the best options for singles in their 40s. Our comprehensive guide to the best dating apps for singles over 40 can help.