Deciding to start dating again can be nerve-wracking at any age. But when you’re in your 40s, the stakes may be a little higher.
You might assume that people in your demographic are either uninterested in dating or already in a committed relationship. However, according to a recent Pew Research Center analysis of Census Bureau data, nearly 25 percent of 40-year-olds in the U.S. had never been married in 2021. Furthermore, only 22 percent of unmarried adults ages 40 to 44 were 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, according to Pew Research analysis, about one in four 40-year-olds who were unmarried in 2001 had tied the knot by age 60. But unlike people in their 20s and 30s, singles over 40 know what they want and aren’t afraid to wait a little longer to find the right person.
How to start dating again at 40
After that speech and the barrage of statistics, you’re probably wondering what our big plan is to get you on the dance floor. The answer? Online dating. Hear us out before you scoff.
Online dating is a great way to meet new people in a relaxed environment. The best dating sites for people over 40 make it so easy to connect with potential partners. You can filter profiles and find matches that share your interests and values. Imagine being able to do that when you scan the room at a party – it would save a lot of time and effort.
But before you download a ton of apps, Kiana Reeves, sex educator, intimacy coach and director of education at Foria, recommends taking a moment for self-reflection: “We sign up to dating sites because we’re looking for a 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 figure out what kind of connection you’re looking for before signing up to dating sites, apps, etc.”
Tired of casual dates? Try the best dating apps for serious relationships
Next, rethink your attitude toward online dating, says Reeves. “Are you looking for a casual swipe-through site to meet people in a new city? Are you someone who likes to make the first move? Are you looking for someone who is only interested in a serious relationship? Are you looking for someone who shares the same beliefs as you? How much time are you willing to spend making a connection?”
Once you’ve clarified your dating goals, Reeves recommends “trying out a few (apps) first so you can figure out what kind of user experience makes the most sense for you.” She adds, “Of course, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s totally fine to just sign up for one to start with.”
Ready to find love after 40? Or maybe you’re looking for a no-pressure friend with benefits? Then you’ve come to the right place. As daters, we’ve done the research, sought expert advice, and conducted 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 will help you do just that.
