The Top 11 Austin Dating Apps & Sites (What Works in 2023)

According to Sperling’s Best Places, Austin ranks No. 1 in the United States for dating. Thanks to its booming tech economy, relatively young population, and the city’s reputation as a musical hotspot on 6th Street there’s plenty of opportunities to find women online.  That being said, dating in Austin has always been a little bit daunting. With so many people roaming the city, how do you know who’s a good match? 

Here’s a bit of a spoiler for which Austin dating apps we think perform the best:

Site	Our Experience	Our Rating	Free Trial Link
Best For Relationships	Experience Highlights Easily the best option for long-term relationships 75% of all online marriages start here 70% of users meet their spouse within a year In-depth signup and matching process	9	Try eHarmony
Best For Casual Fun	Experience Highlights The best way to meet women for casual relationships Best results for regular guys Over 60 million active members Not good for long-term relationships	9	Try AFF For Free

Now that the pandemic permanently changed how people engage with each other, meeting singles in person is trickier than ever. Luckily, the best dating apps in Austin let us make connections from the safety and comfort of our own homes (and anywhere else, for that matter). So finding the best one to use is pretty much a necessity these days!

To be single in Austin is often to feel like you’re in a two-seater rowboat all alone. You look out, and everyone else seems to be coupled up, and it can be deeply frustrating. Your friends and family have probably told you to try online dating. But how do you know which are the best dating apps in Austin?

You keep reading, that’s how. With our own research (and that of local experts) we’ve assembled this list of our favorite dating apps and sites. Whether you’re a UT Longhorn or someone entering the second half of life, there will be something here for you. From outstanding live music to some of the best food in Texas, there’s so much to do in Austin. So why go at it alone?

Give some of these a try, and we’re sure your love life will be in tip-top shape very soon.

Methodology: How We Recommend the Best Places in Austin for Hookups

To bring our readers a comprehensive list of the best places for hookups in Austin, every BeyondAges writer follows the strict and comprehensive guidelines below. Unlike other dating sites, our reviews are always up-to-date and sourced by local experts–not rehashes of stuff you can find elsewhere (or just inaccurate info). 

Methodology	Description
Rigorous Testing	Conducting thorough reviews of dating apps and websites through extensive use over weeks/months.
Anecdotal Experience	Utilizing the practical experiences of a large team of dating and relationship coaches.
Expertise	Leveraging decades of practice in the dating scene to provide up-to-date and impactful advice. We balance subjectivity in an objective framework to give our readers a more wholistic frame of reference for modern dating.
Continuous Learning	Exploring new approaches to dating success to ensure advice remains relevant and effective. This includes out-of-the-box thinking to discover new trends and hacks.
Online Focus	We place a significant focus on how online dating and virtual communication affect modern dating dynamics. From apps, sites, chat rooms, video calls - we delve deep into the pros and cons.
User Engagement	Engaging with readers to comment and share their experiences to build a vibrant community, enhance trust, and ultimately createa better dating experience.

Affiliate Disclaimer:

At Beyond Ages, we believe in honest and transparent communication with our readers. This includes disclosing that we use affiliate links on our site. If you click on these links and make a purchase, Beyond Ages may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. Our editorial integrity is crucial to us, and these affiliate relationships do not influence the content we create. Our recommendations are always based on thorough research and genuine belief in the products or services we mention.

Your support through these affiliate links enables Beyond Ages to continue delivering quality content and insightful advice. We value the trust you place in us and are committed to upholding that trust by guiding you towards valuable resources. Thank you for supporting Beyond Ages and being a part of our community.

#1 – Christian Mingle (Android; iOS) is for marriage-minded Christians

Over half of the population in Austin is religious, so it’s no wonder why so many of them use Christian Mingle to find a partner who shares their values. With over 60,000 new users signing up each month, there’s no shortage of singles to mingle with on this faith-based site.

Most people on the site join with marriage in mind. Couples ranging from their late 20s to early 50s have found each other using Christian Mingle, with thousands of happy marriages resulting from successful unions.

We love how easy it is to sign up, all you need is an email address! Of course, you’ll have to answer some questions as you complete your profile, but don’t worry about committing to an answer right away since you can make changes at any time. With such a stress-free, streamlined process, you can sit back and let Christian Mingle go to work finding your soulmate right away!

Why Christian Mingle is worth using:

Why you might not like it:

 

Love BBWs? Here’s some advice to find them in Austin:

Everything’s big in Texas! Author and dating expert  Marea Mendel has a great guide for finding bigger women in Austin: Our 9 Favorite Locations to Meet a Single Austin BBW in 2023 (Solid)

Here is a list of the 5 of the 9 places recommended for meeting single BBWs in Austin in the article:

• Javelina Bar - A friendly bar with a good atmosphere for mingling.
• The Franklin BBQ - A popular BBQ joint that opens early on Saturday mornings.
• Skylark Lounge - A lounge known for live music and a great night out.
• The Roosevelt Room - An upscale venue with a cozy atmosphere. 
• ATXcursions - Offers group activities like river floating and brewery tours. 

#2 - eHarmony (Android; iOS) is the best dating site in Austin for real relationships

eHarmony has solidified itself as the best dating site in Austin for those who want a real relationship. There is a lot of competition out there, but nothing has caught up to the success locals have seen on eHarmony.

A few things make eHarmony such a great option in Austin: tons of users, great success rates, and a process that makes it easy for you. So it isn't surprising that it works so well when you have a combination like that.

With tens of millions of users (a ton of them in Austin), it should be surprising that 75% of all marriages that start online begin with eHarmony. That means they are at least 4 times more successful than any other site out there! That's pretty crazy.

A big reason why we like it so much is that it does most of the work for you. They find out what you're looking for and then match you up with people like that looking for singles like you. It doesn't get any easier.

Need more info on how eHarmony works for a regular guy? We’ve created an eHarmony review where you can see how the site works, how you can meet people, and how you might one day find love online!

If you want something real and not just another fling, this is the first option you need to try.

Why eHarmony really works:

Why you might want to give it a pass:

 

Need a Quick Comparison between Christian Mingle and eHarmony?

Feature	eHarmony	Christian Mingle
Target Audience	Broad, open to all, irrespective of religious beliefs	Exclusively for Christians
User Base	Diverse, includes non-religious people and various faiths	Over 15 million globally, primarily Christians
Relationship Focus	Serious relationships, emphasizes compatibility	Serious relationships, friendships, long-term, marriage
Matching System	Extensive personality test, compatibility score	User preference-based
Marketing Focus	Love and relationships, not focused on casual hook-ups	Faith-based, relationship-oriented
Usage Recommendation	Individuals serious about finding a compatible partner	Christians seeking serious relationships

#3 - Loosid (Android; iOS) lets you skip the bar scene

Austin is a drinking city, which is a big part of the draw for many people. If you’re sober or not a drinker in general, though, it makes dating a challenge. Almost everyone suggests meeting up at a bar for the first date. This means you either drink Coke at the bar or you have an awkward conversation right off the bat. Loosid is here to help.

The first dating app designed for sober connections, Loosid knows there’s more to do at night than just drink. Whether you’re newly sober or have been so for years, this app helps you connect with like-minded individuals. Additionally, the app has excellent features that can help you with your sobriety. So if you’re living that dry life, this will be one of the best dating apps in Austin.

Why Loosid is worth trying:

Why you should skip it:

 

 

#4 - AFF is the best hookup app in Austin

AFF should be the first hookup app in Austin that you try if you actually want to meet up. We've tried out a lot of other options, and nothing else has worked consistently, particularly for single guys. When you're just looking for something casual, nothing compares.

Tinder is the only other Austin hookup app that is worth mentioning but it's morphing into more of a dating app. When you just want something physical AFF has it beat. With 60 million active users that are certainly a lot of options to prove that.

One of the things we've really liked about this app is that they do a really good job of helping you find EXACTLY what you're looking for. Everyone on this site is looking for the same thing so you can save a LOT of time that you would waste on other sites.

To give you a more detailed look at how AFF works and how it performs for regular guys, you can also have a look at our Adult FriendFinder review.

Give their free trial a shot below and see how good it is.

Why AFF is Austin's best hookup app:

What we don’t like about it:

What people think of AFF

No Good - TrustPilot

"I thought it was probably a scam

I thought it was probably a scam. I was pretty sure they posted pics of pretty girls and Just collect money.
I was talking to this lady on the site and she acted interested but they don’t pass on contact info, even if you pay the gold.
She passed on to join google chat and bam, there she was. She is kind and gorgeous! The site worked for me."

Justin T - SiteJabber

"Some fake profiles, just weed through them and don't waste your time. With a little bit of patience you will sure find some real members. Adultfriendfinder still pretty much kicks $#*!. In my honest opinion adult sites like Adultfriendfinder still work better than any popular dating app. At least everyone on here is pretty much forward and gets straight to the point"

Need Pointers for Casual Hookups in Austin?

Austin is a vibrant city bustling with opportunities for exciting casual encounters. If you're navigating the Austin dating scene, knowing the right spots to visit is crucial for a successful experience. Read this article in its entirety to jumpstart your sex life. Here’s a great except from author dating coach Scott Mahoney about strategy at the live music venue Maggie Mae’s:

“Certain nights attract an older crowd, with gorgeous older women hanging out by the bars. Other nights there’s a nice mix of older and younger single women. Your best bet is to take advantage of the rooftop deck. The view from up top is great and it’ll be the best spot for you to actually strike up a conversation. Check this spot out during a weeknight to really get to know the locals”

#5 - Tinder (Android; iOS) is full of beautiful people

‘We have a hard time believing anyone in this city hasn’t tried Tinder. If you are one of those unicorns, though, you are in for a bit of an adventure. There’s no question, in terms of sheer popularity, this is one of the best dating apps in Austin. You’ll seemingly find half the city on Tinder, and they’ll be some of the most gorgeous people you’ve ever seen.

There’s no question that one of the selling points of Tinder is the attractiveness of the users. While you can certainly make an impression with a funny or charming profile, good looks are a big advantage. Tinder is all about first impressions, so make sure your photos make good ones. If they do, you'll have a lot of fun on this app.

What we love about Tinder:

What we don’t like:

What people think of Tinder

Porter J. - SiteJabber

“A Game-Changer for Love Connections!

 July 18th, 2023

Tinder has revolutionized the way we find love! This incredible app has made dating exciting and accessible like never before. With its user-friendly interface and innovative matching algorithm, Tinder brings people together effortlessly. I love the variety it offers, allowing me to meet amazing individuals from diverse backgrounds. It's a delightful experience, filled with countless possibilities and genuine connections. Thanks to Tinder, my social life has blossomed, and I'm grateful for the endless opportunities it presents. Highly recommended!”

 

 

#6 - Zoosk (Android; iOS) is for younger Austin singles looking for something real

Zoosk is the go-to app for younger singles in Austin who want a real relationship. It’s the #1 dating app in the Apple App Store for a reason, after all. With 35 million members and its intuitive, app-based interface, it’s the ideal alternative for singles looking to avoid Tinder.

When Zoosk got its start as a Facebook app in 2007, its goal was to integrate social networking and online dating. Now, this lead dating app prides itself on using social media integration to keep young singles connected in a way that feels genuine and familiar.

Dating can be stressful, especially if you’re looking for a long-term relationship in your early 20s. While some dating apps leave you to fend for yourself, Zoosk uses its unique matchmaking engine to take the guesswork out for you!

Why you’ll love Zoosk:

Why you might want to skip it:

What people think of Zoosk

Sheryl - TrustPilot

“Still looking for Mr, Right

Although I have not met Mr. Right, Zoosk has had my back, through carefully ensuring the safety of it's members, I have been protected from possible flagrant actions that at my age is certainly something to be concerned with.. Thank you, Zoosk!

 

Zoosk or Match - Which is better for your love life?

Looking for an in-depth guide from BeyondAges? If so, Zoosk vs Match: Which App Has Been Performing Best For Singles by Joe Elvin is the article for you. 

Joe Elvin, a dating expert and writer with extensive experience in reviewing dating apps, provides an insightful comparison between Zoosk and Match. 

Here are some notable quotes and observations, but we encourage you to read the full guide:

• “We’d say Match is the slightly better option for finding serious relationships, mostly because its users tend to be on the older side. However, despite having a slightly younger userbase, Zoosk also has users who are looking for relationships. After all, not all young people prefer hookups to relationships.”
• For deciding which app is better for men to use, Elvin offers a simple comparison based on your dating need. He says, “These apps offer incredibly similar user experiences. It’s difficult to separate them. Both work on iOS, Android or desktop… The key difference is the target demographic, so we’d recommend men (Zoosk for younger women, ideally in Europe and Match for older singles in the US) choose the app that best serves the demographic of women they’re looking for.”

#7 – Facebook Dating (Android; iOS) is for everyone

If you’re one of the 10 quadrillion people who have a Facebook profile, Facebook Dating could be for you. It’s actually a pretty obvious extension of the social media platform. After all, Facebook was created as a way for college students to find out if other college students were single. Of course, the platform is so much more than that these days, but online dating is still a vital field.

If you already have a Facebook profile, signing up for this app will be simple. Simply use the information you’ve already supplied. And don’t worry, your dating profile won’t be public. None of your Facebook friends will be able to see you’re using the dating app. Facebook has its issues, but their free (completely free) dating app is definitely a success.

Why Facebook Dating is among the best dating apps in Austin:

What we don’t like about it:

What people think of Facebook Dating

Amelia Flores - Quora

“One advantage of the app is that it is integrated with Facebook, which means that users can easily create a dating profile using their existing Facebook profile information. This can save time and make the profile creation process more convenient. Additionally, the app allows users to connect with potential matches based on mutual interests and Facebook groups they belong to.

However, some users have reported issues with the app's privacy and security features. Since the app is linked to Facebook, some users have expressed concerns about their personal information being shared with potential matches or being visible to their Facebook friends. While Facebook has stated that the app has privacy features to protect users' information, some users may still feel uncomfortable with the level of integration with their existing Facebook account…”

 

 

#8 – East Meet East Hive (Android, iOS) is great for Asian singles and women in particular

The Asian population in Texas has been steadily growing for the last decade. That probably explains why Hive East Meet East Hive has grown in popularity steadily over these last few years. An app built for Asian Americans and people of Asian heritage, EME fills a needed niche. It’s certainly not as well-populated as many of the other dating sites, but that’s not the point.

One interesting aspect of the app is that women can use the entire app for free. Men will have to pay to get full functionality, but female users of EME can enjoy the benefits without putting down a penny. We still think it’s worth it for Asian guys committed to meeting a woman who shares their cultural background.

Why East Meets East Hive is a great app:

What we would change about EME Hive:

What people think of EME Hive

nobodynobodybutme - App Store

”What a fun app !

The app is cool. It’s fun getting to interact and meeting different people. People are very supportive in my stream. Met some cool people through this app! I LOVE to sing! They have a live streaming feature on this app that allows me to do just that! It’s such a rewarding experience when I see people come into my stream and show their support (thank you everyone!). People from other countries all over the world use this app too, so it’s awesome getting the chance to learn new words from different languages. I haven’t tried this yet, but another cool thing about this app is that they sponsor meetups every now and then. Streamers and non-streamers get the chance to meet and hangout together in real life. Overall, I’ve really enjoyed being a streamer on this app. I get to share my talent, meet new people, learn about different cultures, and even create my own custom gifts. This app has been really fun and I would definitely recommend it!”

 

Looking for Other Great Apps like EME Hive?

EME Hive is great for finding Asian singles in Austin, but are there other options? 

According to BeyondAges’ dating expert coaches, there are five great options - all contained in the popular article, Top 5 Asian Dating Apps that Dating Coaches Recommend by Rob Chan.

We encourage you to check it out and read the full thing, but here’s a teaser:

“If you’re after, educated, Asian singles, Elite Singles is the best dating site for you. 85% of users on the site have above-average education, so if you’re an intellectual yourself, you shouldn’t struggle with meeting interesting people. Not everyone on the site is Asian, but you can set your search preferences to only find other Asian singles of a specific race, such as Chinese or Korean.

Elite Singles is a global platform, so you could even meet singles from various countries in Asia if you’ve ever wanted to travel or settle there. The site is advertised as a place to find something serious, so it may not be the best option for people looking for something casual.”

#9 - Hinge (Android; iOS) helps you find what you’re looking for

Of all the best dating apps in Austin, few get guys as well as Hinge does. Plenty of guys are sincerely looking for romance but don’t have Hollywood screenwriters to make them sound like Hugh Grant. Hinge understands that sometimes you need a little help. That’s why their icebreaker feature is so important. By giving you prompts, it helps you think of fun and witty opening lines.

Hinge goes even further, though, by being truly invested in your dating life. With its algorithms, it helps determine your type, so matches fit what you like. They even follow up after you’ve had a date to find out how it went. That’s dedication. If you’re a guy who’s been wary of joining an online dating app, Hinge is for you.

Why Hinge is worth your time:

What we didn’t like:

What people think of Hinge

Erik Tork - TrustPilot

“This is an exceptional App!

Your experience will be unbelievably incredible if you:

- Are a 6'10" rich and white male that is looking for an extremely shallow jerk that is only dating you for your height.

- Are a 6'10" rich and white male that is looking for an obese, entitled, single mom.

- Are any male that has dreamed of losing your money to a scammer.

Just an incredible platform, in how it works so well for the above scenarios!

 

 

#10 – Silver Singles (Android, iOS) has become one of the best dating sites in Austin for anyone 50+

Online dating is not just for kids. Silver Singles is making sure of that by creating one of the best dating sites for the over-50 crowd. If you’ve used other dating apps and sites, you know most are geared toward 20- and 30-somethings. This app is designed for people who’ve matured like fine wine and are looking for meaningful companionship.

The sign-up process involves a personality test that helps provide you better matches. Once your profile is completed, you’ll receive matches based on your career, interests, lifestyle, and other factors. If you’re over 50 and looking to get back on the scene, you want to give Silver Singles a shot. You might be surprised just how rewarding online dating can be.

Why Silver Singles is worth using:

Why you might not like it:

What people think of SilverSingles

Anna O. - TrustPilot

“This is an honorable and professional dating site

It is said that a business is as good as it's customer service. Meredith at customer service was very serious about the professional way she handle the customers. Prompt to answer, courteous and showing care about a member. 5 good stars from me."

 

Need some tips for finding cougars in Austin?

Start here: Where and How to Meet Older Women (Where We Had Success)

Here’s a list of the top three recommendations from Emily Brooks, Dating Expert:

Upscale coffee shops are one of the easiest places to meet older women

“If you have a Starbucks in your area get yourself there super early in the morning. Keep in mind that you are probably not the only one looking! It's pretty well known that coffee shops are some of the best places to find and meet a single cougar without much effort.”

Meeting older women can be a lot easier online

“When you're a busy guy that needs the easiest and most efficient way to meet a lot of single older ladies it's best to try online dating, and more specifically older women dating sites. A lot of women have changed how they're dating and have basically given up meeting guys the old fashioned way are ONLY looking to meet men using the dating sites below.”

Mid to high-end grocery stores attract a lot of more mature women

“A girls gotta eat and that means going to the grocery store. Making a regular habit of regularly walking around your local grocery store without any headphones is a great way to expand your options. Most women are going to be at the grocery store once a week and there are few other places they will be at so frequently.”

#11 - Raya (iOS) is a great way to network in Austin

For the well-heeled of Austin, Raya will not only be your favorite dating app; it’ll be your go-to networking tool. Famously, Raya is the dating app that celebrities have been known to use. That’s because it’s a membership-based app that requires being approved by Raya’s committee. To be permitted on Raya is to be bestowed serious cred.

As a dating app, Raya’s most redeeming feature is its exclusivity. This is one of those quality over quantity apps, and its members are all the happier for it. That said, don’t be surprised if not everyone you meet on the app is looking for something serious. Raya is even more popular for building up personal networks, so a connection may be more business than romance.

3 reasons to use Raya:

What we don’t like about it:

What people think of Raya

iL_Meduse - App Store

“Why all the suits?

Anyone dating and (actually) working in the creative industry know how hard it can be to find people that match with your schedule. Though to a lot of people, Raya was seen as a space for the “famous” I always felt it served a great purpose in allowing others in film, TV, music and media to find others in the field that understood the intense lifestyle, extreme hours, and constant travel it demanded. However lately I’ve feel like I’ve seen an influx of “suits” people with know actual creative output, resting on their wealth and attractiveness to exist on the app. Just like soho house started as a refuge for professional artists (notice the word artist not content creator) and became a club for the pseudo artistic tech and finance bros that continue to profit off the back of creative work. Raya has had an influx of people who’s only worthwhile quality is their ability to vacation in Santorini. It be nice if artists could still have a space, one where we can meet other people who actually understand our field, who actually work in the industries we say we do. Cause I’m getting a bit annoyed by the onsets of suits. If your looking for your “hustle” partner please just go to The League and leave the artists alone.

How To Stay Safe In Dating Apps

We didn’t find any red flags as far as scams or dangerous users on Down, but that doesn’t mean that a scammer won’t be able to slip through the net. So, it’s worth reading up on these quick tips to keep yourself safe.

• Be careful with your personal information. “Never give someone you haven’t met with in person your personal information, including your: social security number, credit card details, bank information, or work or home address,” a RAINN spokesperson advises.
• Don’t be too vulnerable too quickly. “When we are making decisions that make us vulnerable, we need to also be thinking about safety,” explains psychotherapist Kelly Scott, LMHC. “There’s a lot of physical and emotional vulnerability in dating.” So, make sure to keep a logical head on your shoulders when deciding who’s safe to date and who seems suspicious.
• Ask for verified profiles. Down and most other mainstream dating apps give users the option to verify their profiles. If you’re suspicious about another dating app user, ask them to verify their profile. It’s usually a low-effort process, so legitimate users should have no reason to not want to do it.
• Swap social media details with your matches. Viewing the social media profiles of your matches will allow you to learn more about them, including how accurately they were representing themselves on the dating app.
• Arrange a video call before meeting anyone. Catfishing is regarded as “very common” among 71% of dating app users, according to Pew Research data. Arranging a video call with your matches will stop you from being catfished and help you test for real-life chemistry.
• Never send money to strangers from the internet. Some $3.3 billion was lost to online romance scams in 2022, according to FBI data. You might think that’ll never happen to you, but many of these scammers are smarter than you realize.  “These people are very good at recognising opportunities,” says detective chief insepector Gary Miles, who specialises in cybercrime. “The social engineering is quite remarkable,” he adds. Better Business Bureau data suggests that 18 to 24-year-olds are just as likely to be scammed as older users. FBI data suggests that these scams have increased by 25% since 2019. So, no matter how much you think you can trust an online stranger, don’t send them money.
• Trust your gut. As many tips as we’ve shared, your gut feeling is usually your best tool. “When it comes to online dating, your instincts are your best friend,” explains experienced NYC matchmaker Vince Ricco.  “If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your gut and proceed with caution.”

The Best Dating Sites in Austin for Long-Term Relationships

Now that we’ve covered our list of the very best dating sites, we want to share a few specific recommendations. For those of you looking for a long-term relationship, these are the top apps for you:

eHarmony has a proven track record of successful relationships

We covered eHarmony in detail above, but it truly is the best dating site in Austin for real relationships. Not only does eHarmony boast tons of users, but it’s also four times more successful than any other dating app out there.

Their sign-up process is lengthy for a reason: with all that in-depth information, they can find out what you’re really looking for and eliminate the people who just aren’t going to give you what you need. What more could you ask for from a dating site?

If you’re looking for something long-term, eHarmony should be the first site you try.

Zoosk is ideal for younger singles who want more than a fling

Not every younger single in Austin is looking for a hookup. But, with 35 million members and a user-friendly interface, Zoosk is the perfect app for anyone between 18 and their early 20s looking for a long-term relationship.

By integrating your existing social media accounts, using Zoosk is as intuitive as scrolling through your feeds. And with its unique Behavior Matchmaking technology, it does so much of the work for you! For younger singles, Zoosk is the way to go.

 

The Best Hookup Sites in Austin

If you’re more interested in some short-term action, we’ve got you covered too! While some hookup sites can feel like you’re wasting your time, these are the best casual dating sites in Austin for real results:

AFF is the best hookup site in Austin

We talked about AFF and everything that makes it great above, but we really can’t stress enough how perfect this site is for hookups. It’s super popular in Austin right now, and 100% focused on casual dating, so there’s no chance of confusion.

We’ve also found that regular dudes get better results on AFF than other hookup sites. Women spend more time looking at a guy’s profile instead of swiping, so there’s more opportunity to really catch a match’s attention.

For normal guys looking for something casual, AFF is for you. Don’t believe us? Check out their free trial to see for yourself!

Tinder is great if you look like a model

Tinder is one of the best Austin hookup sites since it’s insanely popular and has a huge userbase. But there’s a major downside: this app is all about looks. Lots of research has been done on Tinder over the past few years, and it turns out that the top 10% of men on the app get more than 80% of the responses from women. What about the rest of the guys?

Unless you’re male model hot, you’re probably not going to get much action on Tinder. Save yourself the disappointment and try AFF first.

 

The Best Free Dating Sites in Austin

You might be wondering why you should use a paid site when there are plenty of free options out there, and you wouldn’t be alone in thinking that. But believe us, after trying out over 100 different dating sites, you really do get what you pay for.

In our experience, singles get better results, whether they’re pursuing a long-term relationship or a hookup, from paid sites. This is because people on paid sites tend to be more upfront about what they’re looking for without playing games, which means more legitimate opportunities to match. Unless you’re really attractive, like model-status attractive, most real people just don’t tend to get real results from the free sites.

If you absolutely can’t afford a paid site, these are the best free dating sites in Austin to try:

Free sites can be great if you’re trying online dating for the first time. Just keep in mind that when it comes to free dating sites, you get what you pay for (or don’t pay for, in this case). So if you want more bang for your buck, opt for a paid site instead.

Safety & Precautions for Online Dating in Austin

Austin is a relatively safe city for most people, but it helps to be aware of the dangers for online dating. Use this table a reference and a starting point:

Safety Tips	Guidance and Expert Insights
Meeting in Public Places	Opt for public spaces like coffee shops and bars for initial meetups. Brandon Wood, a Men's Dating Coach at Beyond Ages, advocates for public venues as they offer safer and neutral environments for first encounters. More insights from Brandon Wood can be found at Beyond Ages - Brandon Wood.
Informing Someone About Your Plans	Always inform a friend or family member about your plans when meeting someone new. This measure is essential for ensuring your safety and keeping someone informed about your whereabouts.
Cautious Sharing of Personal Information	Be mindful of the personal information you share, especially on online platforms. Rob Chan, a Dating Coach at Beyond Ages, highlights the importance of protecting personal details in the digital dating realm. Further advice from Rob Chan is available at Beyond Ages - Rob Chan.
Choosing Reliable Dating Platforms	Use well-known and credible dating apps and websites. Ensure the platform's safety and credibility through reviews and user feedback.
Trusting Your Instincts	If you feel uneasy, trust your instincts and don't hesitate to leave a situation that makes you uncomfortable.
Moderating Alcohol Consumption	Maintain control and awareness, especially during initial meetings, by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption.
Having a Transportation Plan	Make sure you have a dependable way to return home, and avoid relying on new acquaintances for transportation.
Practicing Safe Sex	In case of sexual encounters, prioritize safe sex practices and consent to protect your and your partner's health.

Frequently Asked Questions on Dating Sites in Austin

What dating apps do people use in Austin?

The most commonly used dating apps in Austin are Tinder and Bumble. But that should be no surprise, right? They are the most popular in the country. However, if you're looking for something more effective for both dating and hookups, then AFF and eHarmony are great alternatives.

Is Bumble popular in Austin?

According to Bumble itself, it had more than 12 million users in 2020, during the peak of the pandemic. It is sure to have increased now that places are open and people can go out on dates much easier.

Is Austin a good city for singles?

Definitely! Austin is a cheaper place to live in Texas compared to other cities, so it attracts a lot more young workers, many of them single and looking to settle down or maybe just have a hookup.

What's the best dating app for serious relationships in Austin?

eHarmony is renowned for its success in long-term relationships.

Which dating app is recommended for casual relationships in Austin?

AFF (Adult Friend Finder) is widely regarded as the best for casual encounters and hookups.

Are there dating apps in Austin that focus on specific demographics?

Yes, for example, Christian Mingle caters to Christian singles, and EME Hive is popular among the Asian community.

How do I choose the right dating app?

Consider your goals (casual vs. serious relationships), demographics, and any specific interests or values you want to share with potential matches.

Is it safe to use dating apps?

Generally, yes, but always take precautions, like meeting in public places and not sharing too much personal information upfront.

How can I improve my profile on dating apps?

Use clear, honest photos, write a bio that reflects your personality and interests, and be upfront about what you're looking for.

Can I use multiple dating apps at once?

Yes, many people use multiple apps to increase their chances of finding a suitable match.

What makes eHarmony and AFF stand out in Austin?

eHarmony has a high success rate for long-term relationships, while AFF is best for casual relationships and hookups.

Are there dating apps for specific age groups in Austin?

Yes, Silver Singles, for example, is tailored for those over 50.

How do I stay safe while dating online in Austin?

Meet in public places, inform someone about your meeting plans, and trust your instincts.

Can I find a partner in Austin who shares my religious beliefs?

Yes, apps like Christian Mingle cater to religious singles.

Is it worth paying for premium features on dating apps?

It depends on your specific needs and how much you're willing to invest in your dating journey.

How has the dating scene in Austin changed recently?

The pandemic has shifted more dating to online platforms, making dating apps more crucial than ever.

Are there any niche dating apps popular in Austin?

Yes, apart from mainstream apps, niche apps like Loosid for sober singles and Hinge for meaningful connections are popular.

What's the best approach to start a conversation on a dating app?

Use their profile to make personalized, engaging comments or questions.

How do I deal with rejection on dating apps?

Remember that rejection is a normal part of online dating and doesn't reflect your worth as a person.

Can I find international matches on dating apps in Austin?

Some apps, like Elite Singles, have a broader, international user base, making this possible.

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References:

Best Place (n.d.) America’s best (and worst) cities for dating.

Better Business Bureau (2022) 2021 BBB scam tracker risk report.

Brooks, E. (2024) How to find and meet single cougars in 2024 - What you’re doing wrong. Beyond Ages.

Chan, R. (2024) Top 5 Asian dating apps in 2024 that dating coaches recommend. Beyond Ages.

Elvin, J. (2024) Zoosk vs Match: Which app has been performing best in 2024 for singles? Beyond Ages.

Fletcher, E. (2023) Romance scammers’ favorite lies exposed. Federal Trade Commission.

King, K. (2024) 2024’s best hookup apps & hookup sites we’ve tried personally. Beyond Ages.

Mendel, M. (2024) Our 9 favorite locations to meet single Austin BBW in 2024. Beyond Ages.

RAINN (n.d.) Online dating and dating app safety tips.

Ricco, V. (2023) 12 essential dating safety tips for online daters. Tawkify.

Senkus, T. (2024) Adult FriendFinder review 2024. Beyond Ages.

Senkus, T. (2024) 2024 eHarmony review. Beyond Ages.

Tandon, N. and Battle, M., M. S. (2023). A dating expert & psychotherapist’s dating app safety tips + common scams to avoid. MindBodGreen.

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Contributing Authors:

Tom Senkus

For more than two decades, Tom has dated extensively and studied behavioral psychology as a way of understanding the complexities of human nature until he became an expert. After traveling as a touring musician and living in more than 15 countries, Tom has cross-referenced his experience in seduction, dating, and interpersonal dynamics with the ever-changing landscape of 21st-century dating. His work as a writer has appeared in 500+ publications (digital and print). Tom is also the author of several books (available on Amazon). In his free time, you can find Tom recording music and cooking the best Cincinnati-style chili you’ve ever had.

Joe Elvin

Joe Elvin is an internationally known confidence and dating coach with nearly a decade of experience. He is the successful author of several dating and confidence books that have helped thousands of men find success. While traveling the world Joe consistently finds new and valuable ways to meet and attract women. Joe has a Bachelor’s Degree in Multimedia Journalism from Bournemouth University and he has been featured in many large publications including AskMen, TSB Magazine and The Good Men Project.

As one of the most prolific writers on Beyond Ages, Joe has reviewed over a hundred dating apps. He is the site’s foremost authority when it comes to selecting what dating app works for whom. From an app’s mechanics to its algorithm to telltale signs that a dating app is a scam, Joe’s is able to expertly discern between dating apps that provide value and those that don’t.