Picking the best dating apps in San Francisco is no easy task. First, the latest census data for San Francisco County (as well as the Bay Area) shows an unbalanced gender ratio, with 104 men to 100 women.
And while it seems that every new app is getting developed and launched in SF, the sad reality is that most of them make modern dating MORE difficult. After all, the gender ˇratio is even more skewed on dating apps - yet these apps comprise a major way that singles come together - especially after the long-term societal effects of the pandemic. Thankfully, we have created a shortlist of San Francisco dating apps and sites that have consistently worked for us over the years:
With more and more dating apps and sites being developed on a near-daily basis, how can you pick the ones that will suit your needs? According to Martin Zwilling, founder and CEO of Startup Professionals, “In the U.S. alone, the target demographic for these services is 90 million singles that are between 19 and 45.” So you can see the appeal of startups creating niche app after niche app until the market is saturated.
If you’re overwhelmed with the number of San Francisco dating apps coming out each year, let us help you narrow down the list. We’ve created the ultimate list of the best dating apps in the city that will help you find exactly what you’re looking for–whether it’s a long-term relationship or something more casual.
Methodology: How We Recommend the Best Dating Apps in San Francisco
To bring our readers a comprehensive list of the Best Dating Apps in San Francisco, every BeyondAges writer follows strict and verifiable guidelines. Unlike other dating sites, our in-depth reviews are always up-to-date and sourced by local experts familiar with the realities of modern dating. Here’s our criteria:
| Methodology | Description |
| Rigorous Testing | Conducting thorough reviews of dating apps and websites through extensive use over weeks/months. Each writer explores all of the app’s available features to form a complete picture of how useful it is for modern dating. |
| Anecdotal Experience | Accumulated real-world experience of online dating is tested against the practical usage of each app. The large editorial team of dating and relationship coaches contributes their thoughts to provide an unbiased look at an app’s efficacy. |
| Continuous Learning | Due to the evolving nature of online dating, writers explore 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. |
Author Credentials:
Hi, my name is Rob Chan. As a Dating Coach for BeyondAges.com and San Francisco resident, I have personally tested all of the apps in this guide. Whether looking for hookups or serious relationships, you’ll find great success by following my reviews and giving each app an honest shot. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below - I’m happy to chat with men looking to improve their lives. Best of luck!
Affiliate Disclaimer:
When you purchase a subscription through our links, BeyondAges might earn a small commission, and it won't cost you extra. Don’t worry, our advice stays unbiased and honest, as our team's priority is always to provide you with reliable and well-researched content, no matter what.
#1 - eHarmony (Android; iOS) is the best dating site in San Francisco for long-term relationships
eHarmony might not be the shiny new option but it's undoubtedly San Francisco's best dating site for real relationships. There are tons of new apps popping up every year but nothing has come along yet that can compete.
What makes eHarmony stand out is how effective it's been and how much it actually does for you. In terms of results, eHarmony has quite a track record. 75% of all marriages that begin online start with eHarmony and nearly 70% of users find their long-term partner within a year. Those are crazy numbers.
We really like that it also does most of the work. Most apps have you scrolling through hundreds of profiles to find one good match. Here, they send you matches every day that fit exactly what you tell them you're looking for. It doesn't get easier than that.
If you want a real partner this is the best game in town. 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!
Why eHarmony is great
- The best dating sites in San Francisco for long-term relationships
- 70% of users find their future spouse within a year
- Makes it pretty easy to form connections
What we don’t like about it
- It definitely takes more time than most to get started
- Not super popular with those 18-22
What people think of eHarmony
Roland R. - SiteJabber
“I found my harmony in life
I'm totally grateful to this site because it helped me to find my sweetheart, my harmony with the world.”
Betty F. - SiteJabber
“EHarmony is a fantastic option
Millions of people search for love on one of the most well-known dating services in the world, eHarmony. Users find it appealing because of a variety of features, such as personality assessments and compatibility matching, which can help you locate the right partner.”
Jaime M. - SiteJabber
“They feel at ease discussing anything and anything on the website!
February 18th, 2023
My experience with eHarmony dates back around two months. I've been using the website for a little more than a month, and I've been dating someone there for approximately three weeks. As a result of all the unfavourable reviews, I initially had some doubts about this dating website. Although I was likewise concerned that it wouldn't work out, I decided to give it a shot after reading all the encouraging reviews.
The majority of users, in my experience, are trying to connect with like-minded individuals, which is precisely what we were both looking for. It's good to be able to meet someone who understands how difficult it is to juggle work and school because we are both quite busy. The main drawback to this service, in my opinion, is that when users first start corresponding via email or chat, there isn't much conversation between them. Until people understand that they genuinely like one another, it takes some time. Nevertheless, once they do, things go more quickly since they feel at ease discussing anything and anything on the website!”
What’s your experience like using eHarmony in San Francisco? Share your experience with the BeyondAges community by leaving a comment below.
eHarmony’s Success Ratio
eHarmony is renowned in the online dating sphere due to its success for finding lasting relationships. To this point, Forbes has an interesting interview with two noted relationship professionals that points to not only the continual success of eHarmony, but the success of its users since its inception in
First, psychologist and author Carla Manly, Ph.D. remarked on her own observations about eHarmony in her practice. Dr. Manly says, “From client feedback, eharmony is one of the best dating sites out there, particularly for people who are interested in a long-term, committed relationship.” Compatibility and shared values, according to Manly, are the main keys for a successful partnership - and eHarmony’s focus on these aspects accounts for the app’s positive reputation.
Conversely, Chanel Dokun, a relationship expert and author, notes in the Forbes article that the abundance of choices on platforms like eHarmony can be confusing, but acknowledges how eHarmony led to her clients to success - and in her own life. In fact, Dokun met her husband through the platform, a relationship that has carried on until this day. Dokun’s advice: Try eHarmony with an open mind and always be yourself, flaws and all.
#2 - AFF is the best hookup app in San Francisco
AFF has got to be the first hookup app in San Francisco you try if you actually want to get some results, especially for men. Tinder is legit competition here but it's become more of a dating app these days. If you want a REAL hookup app AFF is where it's at.
For an app to work, you need a lot of people using it and a clear focus. That's where AFF really delivers. They have a ton of locals using it and over 60 million total users. That's a lot of options!
The biggest reason AFF seems to work so well though is that it's purely focused on being the best hookup site in town. Everyone who uses it is looking for the same thing and there are very few attention seekers that seem to flock to Tinder. People here actually want to meet up. 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. Check out their free trial below and see.
Why you should try AFF
- Probably the most popular hookup app in San Francisco
- 60 million users means that you get a lot of locals AND a lot of tourists on it
- Easy to use
What we don’t like about it
- Many users can only access via web app
- Needs a design update
- Fair amount of ads
What people think of Adult Friend Finder
No good - TrustPilot
“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.”
Alison B. - Sitejabber
Been on there off and on 10 or so Years. Been to SEVERAL meets and parties! I've made tons of fun friends and have more fun clubbing and swinging with them then any other peer genre! Too many nasty old, fat, desperate mean with high expectations. True sex addicts and swingers love this site and it works well for them.
What’s your experience like using AFF in San Francisco? Share your experience with the BeyondAges community by leaving a comment below.
Beyond this guide with BeyondAges: More articles about AFF
Need some more reading material before signing up for AFF? No problem, BeyondAges has you covered. Be sure to explore the following articles that show why AFF is a solid choice for starting casual relationships:
- Fling vs AFF Comparison: Our Experience Using Both
- The Best Hookup Apps & Sites We've Tried Personally
- Adult Friend Finder Review - Is This App Worth It?
- Adult Friend Finder vs Ashley Madison: Which Wins?
#3 - Kippo is the dating app for gamers (Android; iOS)
If you love video games and want to find a partner who does too, Kippo is the app for you. Everyone on the app loves games and can share the games they play on their profile. This helps you find matches you actually have something in common with, improving your chances of finding love or a fun hookup.
Kippo has plenty of great features, like the Kippo Arcade, a game you can play to meet other users virtually. This allows you to meet a variety of people in a low-pressure environment. Online dating can sometimes feel like a drag, but Kippo makes it fun again!
Why Kippo is worth trying
- You’ll automatically have shared interests with your matches
- Users are more active on Kippo compared to other dating apps
- Plenty of fun features, like Kippo Arcade
What we don’t like about it
- Limited free swipes
- Not a lot of users
What people think of Kippo
u/frostedshake - Reddit
“I first started using Kippo early on its release in 2021 when they were doing a lot of advertising, and I first downloaded it after seeing it on snapchat ads. Now I had just gotten out of a rough long-term relationship at this point, and I wasn't interested in anything serious so I was really looking for casual chatting or finding gaming friends. I also didn't want to see anyone local as I lived in a smaller city, so I was paranoid about seeing anyone I knew on other dating apps and spreading gossip about me, so I actually was drawn to the fact that it was matching me with people who were longer distance due to a smaller user base. It's sad to hear that the 'friends only' feature was removed because I did shortly chat with a few really nice people without first flirty dm's and the friends only feature was what attracted my current partner in messaging me at all.”
Addicted to Video Games? Expert Solutions to Reclaim Your Life
Looking for a way to get away from gaming? In the WebMD article “Is Video Game Addiction Real?” by Smitha Bhandari, MD and other WebMD Editorial Contributors, offer some great advice and insights into the nature of video game addiction.
According to Bhandari, she encourages reflecting on some questions to determine whether you’re addicted. "It may help to start by asking yourself a few questions,” says Bhandari. “Does your video gaming get in the way of other important things in your life, like your relationships, your job, or going to school?"
Furthermore, she explains that the nature of addiction has several warning signs: "You need to have five or more of these signs in 1 year to have a problem, according to criteria that were proposed in the DSM-5."
Last, she offers some advice for dealing with video game addiction:
- Set Time Limits: Establish and adhere to specific time limits for gaming.
- Bedroom Free of Gadgets: Keep phones and other gaming devices out of the bedroom to avoid playing late into the night.
- Engage in Other Activities: Ensure participation in different activities daily, including exercise, to mitigate health risks associated with prolonged gaming.
#4 - Hinge is perfect for getting the conversation started (Android; iOS)
Hinge seamlessly mixes getting to know someone based on their appearance and their profile. Many dating apps focus too heavily either on pictures or bios, and Hinge has the perfect combination of both. That makes it one of the best San Francisco dating sites.
Users upload six pictures and answer a couple of conversation prompts to set their profile up. To match with someone, you either like or comment on another user’s pictures of conversation prompts. This is a great way of ensuring users actually look at the profiles, and prompts help get the conversation started.
Why Hinge is one of our favorite apps
- The free version of Hinge is easy to use and you can add additional paid features
- Short conversation prompts are a great, quick way of getting to know someone
- Hinge sends a most compatible recommendation every day
What we don’t like about it
- You are limited to ten likes a day with the free version
- The free version only lets you see one person that liked you at a time
What people think of Hinge
Eric 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!”
#5 - Match is one of the oldest, most reliable dating sites in San Francisco (Android; iOS)
Match.com is the oldest online dating site as it has been around since 1993. Despite their age, Match has not become outdated as they are constantly improving. The best feature Match offers is its outstanding matching algorithm.
Match.com lets users fill in a quiz about their personality, education and expectations when they sign up. Your answers will then be used to find you the perfect matches. You can also search for matches on your own. Match.com is also unique as it hosts events for users to help them meet each other in a safe and less intimidating environment
Why we recommend Match
- Local events like parties are available to members
- Match.com has been around for decades, so they are reliable
- Detailed matching algorithm to help you find compatible partners
Why Match might not be the best dating site in San Francisco
- You must have a paid membership to send and reply to messages
- Membership can be expensive
What people think ofMatch.com
Cemile M. - SiteJabber
“I've been using Match for about two years and I must say I'm very pleased with their service. They have a large user base, and the website is simple to navigate. I was looking for a relationship but didn't want to get hurt again, so I tried online dating sites. In my opinion, Match Online Dating Sites is by far the best online dating site. They have many users from all over the world who are very friendly and easygoing!”
Need More SF Dating Guides from BeyondAges?
At BeyondAges.com, we can help you find what you’re looking for in San Francisco. From hookups, cougars, BBWs, and just decent advice tailored to the city, the following are some guides and excerpts that will lead you to success:
Rob Chan: “Music festivals are a great way to meet cute single girls looking for a fun time. The Outside Land Music and Arts Festival is an annual event held in the city at Golden Gate Park. It is one of the best music festivals as it features tons of musical acts, amazing food, drinks and more. We’ve met lots of cool girls at this festival. It's also easier to find girls here than hook up in Sacramento when there isn't an event.”
Rob Chan: “You still can meet hot San Francisco cougars even if you don’t have so much time in the city, or you don’t like noisy bars. All you gotta do is stroll down the city and hit women up during the day. Sounds terrifying? Maybe. But that’s the biggest gift you can ever give to yourself…”
Jack Hughes: “Tired of going to the same bar, night after night, chasing after San Francisco casual encounters that never happen? Truth be told, you’re not alone. In such a populated city, you could make the mistake of assuming that every bar or lounge has a huge one-nighter culture. However, that really isn’t the case and knowing where to could really make all the difference.”
Mike Rhodes: “If there's one form of exercise that many BBW love, it's yoga. Yoga studios are body-positive places where nobody gets judged for the way they look. Everyone's just looking for good vibes and relaxation at yoga studios.”
#6 – Zoosk is one of our favorite dating apps in San Francisco(Android; iOS)
Zoosk is the perfect dating app for young singles that are ready for a relationship. It’s a great alternative to hookup apps like Tinder as users care more about what people have to say than what they look like. This helps you find genuine connections if that’s what you’re after.
There are over 35 million users on the app, so chances are high that you’ll find your ideal match. The main focus of people’s profiles on Zoosk is their bios as they can be 1500 characters long compared to Tinder’s 500 character limit. This helps you get to know someone better so you can easily get a conversation started.
Why Zoosk is worth trying
- Easy to access Zoosk via their website or mobile app
- Large dating pool of over 35 million members
- Good balance between men and women on the app
What we don’t like about it
- Limited free features as you need to pay to send messages
- No compatibility quiz or features for match recommendations
What people think of Zoosk
Natalie g. - SiteJabber
“So many matches
Love the fact that I had so many matches and options right away. It keeps you engaged not boring. Love the features and ease of use.”
#7 - Tinder is great for young, hot singles (Android; iOS)
Tinder continues to be one of the best dating apps in San Francisco for young people. This is thanks to its reputation for being an app for casual flings. Many young people are not ready for long-term relationships, so Tinder helps them find like-minded matches.
Once you set up a profile by adding your best pictures and a short bio, you can start swiping on users. All you need to do is swipe right to like them or left if you don’t. If you both like each other, you will match and can start talking. As Tinder is so easy to use, it’s a great place to find casual flings, but we wouldn’t say it's the best dating app in San Francisco for finding a committed relationship.
Why Tinder is great
- Tinder has over 50 million active users
- Signing up to Tinder and using it are super easy
- Tinder is extremely popular among people in their 20s and 30s
What we don’t like about it
- Tinder is very appearance-based so matches can be shallow
- People are less likely to meet matches from Tinder compared to other dating apps
What people think of Tinder
S B. - SiteJabber
“Getting scammed on Tinder was a frustrating and eye-opening experience. Initially, I was excited about the prospect of meeting new people and potentially finding a genuine connection. However, I encountered a scammer who posed as someone they weren't. Their charming persona quickly won me over, but red flags appeared when they asked for money under various pretenses. I reluctantly sent funds, only to realize I had fallen victim to a romance scam.
I've gotten my money back and that was the only way I could go about it. I got help from (I USED THEIR WEBSITE URL AS MY DISPLAY NAME ON THIS REVIEW INCASE YOU NEED HELP AND WANT TO REACH OUT TO THEM).
Note: I did this because of the strict policy over here and honestly i just want to help as many people as possible to get their money back.”
The Pitfalls of Tinder?
Everyone loves and hates Tinder, right? While easy hookups and potential relationships are the norm on Tinder, you should be aware of the app’s potential downsides when dating in SF.
In an article by Kate O'Flaherty for The Guardian, the pitfalls of using dating apps like Tinder are explored, focusing on privacy and security concerns. Here’s some of the most notable insights about the negatives aspects Tinder users need to be aware of:
- Privacy Challenges with Personal Data: Tinder and similar apps require users to share personal information, raising privacy issues. O’Flaherty warns about the risks of sharing details such as sexual orientation, age, and social media profiles. She notes, "It’s difficult to maintain privacy when apps such as Hinge, Tinder and Bumble need to collect data to match you with potential dates."
- Verification and Authenticity Issues: The article points out the limitations of photo verification systems used by dating apps. It references the "Tinder Swindler" case, highlighting that while photos may be verified, other profile details can still be falsified.
- Scams and Security Concerns: The potential for scams is a significant risk when using dating apps. Hannah Shimko from the Online Dating Association emphasizes that most romance fraud occurs when conversations move off the app. The lack of end-to-end encryption on Tinder and similar platforms makes this a pertinent issue.
- Recommendations for Safer Use: The article advises users to be cautious with the information shared on their profiles. It also suggests staying within the app for messaging, as it offers a degree of monitoring for harmful behavior.
Overall, the article underscores the importance of being aware of privacy and security risks when using dating apps like Tinder, and it offers practical advice for users to protect themselves.
#8 - Pure is for casual flings (Android; iOS)
You’ll find these words when you visit the dating app Pure’s homepage:
“GIVE INTO YOUR DESIRES. Pure – dating with no shame.”
As you can see, Pure may have a confusing name - as the app’s intentions are lean towards finding relationships that are anything but “pure.” Users use Pure to find quick and easy flings. Many people are not looking for relationships but still want to fuel their sex drive, and Pure can help.
Pure values anonymity and privacy, so profiles only display a selfie to attract matches. Similarly, once you match with someone, you need to make plans right away because the conversation and your profile will self-destruct. This is a quick and easy way to make plans without a constant back and forth. As everyone on Pure knows what it’s used for, you won’t need to have any awkward conversations about expectations.
Why Pure is one of the best San Francisco dating apps for casual flings
- It’s one of the best dating apps in San Francisco for casual flings, so everyone on the app wants the same thing
- Setting up a profile is easy as you only need to upload one photo
- Women get free access to Pure
What we don’t like about it
- The one-hour time limit may be too limiting for some users
- Pure is location-based, so if there aren’t many users in your area, you’re out of luck
What people think of Pure
Purple Planet - Google Play
“Allow basic features such as match within 20-mile radius and chatting, and only then will you guys have a chance to beat the other apps. Hiding behind a paywall for basic features is literally handicapping yourselves.
#9 - MeetMe is one of the best San Francisco dating apps if you like social media (Android; iOS)
MeetMe is less of a dating app and more of a place to meet new people. MeetMe is a social media platform, unlike any other, as you are meeting new friends rather than keeping in touch with old or current ones. You can, however, also use MeetMe for dating.
MeetMe is a great way to date, as there is less pressure compared to traditional dating apps. You can message members and become friends or go on a date if both parties agree to it. It’s easy to get to know someone on MeetMe as profiles have a live feed, relationship status and sections for about you, basic stuff, what you’re up to and “a little something more.” Users can then send friend requests to interact with each other.
Why we enjoy MeetMe
- Interactive features like games and live video streams are great ways to get to know someone
- Any member, free or paid, can send or receive messages to other members
- MeetMe is available via their website or mobile apps
What we don’t like about it
- Most features are only available for paid memberships
- The search features are limited
What people think of MeetMe
Bud C. - SiteJabber
“I found my match on Meet Me
I'm really grateful to Meet Me. I owe to them for my happiness. I found my match on this site and we are happy now.”
#10 - Raya (iOS) is one of the best dating apps in San Francisco for the "elites"
Raya is one of the best apps for high-profile singles to meet one another. Celebrities and top-level executives may have a hard time using regular dating apps, so Raya is a great alternative.
Raya is an exclusive dating and networking app where approval is tight. You typically need over 5,000 Instagram followers to be approved, but that doesn’t guarantee you a spot on Raya. If you do pass the rigorous application stages, you will be able to interact with other high-profile singles in San Francisco.
Why Raya is one of the best dating apps in San Francisco
- Acceptance is tough so only other elite members will be on the app
- Raya can be used for networking or dating
- Being catfished is near impossible thanks to extensive screening
What we don’t like about it
- Raya is not available for Android
- No one knows what exact standards you need to meet to get approved as 5,000 Instagram followers is not always enough
What people think of Raya
u/ReferenceWeary9493 - Reddit
“Raya pros/cons
Just Venting 😮💨
Hi, I’ve been on raya for a bit so I can speak to the pros and cons to demystify it a bit
Pros:
-
- People are very attractive and interesting
- I have made great and genuine long-lasting friendships through it
- All high quality photos and profiles
- every date I have gone on is extremely high quality (experience and person)
Cons:
-
- expensive (MINIMUM is $20/month, $50/month recommended)
- can’t pause membership without being kicked out
- shown profiles from all over the world which is very inconvenient… not looking for an LDR
- only shown like 10 profiles a day, and again, probably ~2 from your city
- even if you get tons of matches on other apps you will get few on this app (unless you’re a blue check)
- celeb status > compatibility, attractiveness, location, etc
- no filtering
- very high effort to get a match
Also sorry friends, unable to provide referrals at this time bc it negatively impacts algorithm. But if you’re not a celeb or successful founder, EVEN if you have other forms of social capital (conventionally attractive, have €£$, went to an Ivy etc), this app is not designed with your experience in mind.”
Think You Can Date a Celebrity? Advice for Dating Famous People
Just met a beautiful stranger that you already may know? If so, the following advice in the guide “What It's REALLY Like To Date A Celebrity, According To A Beverly Hills Matchmaker” by Alessandra Conti, a renowned matchmaker, will help you successfully navigate these unique relationships:
Celebrity Dating Challenges
- Unique Challenges in Celebrity Dating: There are distinct challenges celebrities face in dating. According to Conti, "when it comes to dating, celebrities are not actually 'just like us'," emphasizing the unique dynamics of dating in the limelight.
- Understanding the LA Celebrity Culture: Conti stresses the importance of understanding LA's celebrity culture for comprehending their dating behaviors. She quotes Eileen Davidson, saying, "Pay attention to me… don’t pay attention to me," to describe the delicate balance celebrities must maintain between public image and personal life.
- Navigating Paparazzi Intrusion: Conti notes the significant role of paparazzi in celebrity dating. While top-tier celebrities constantly deal with media attention, others have more control over their public exposure. This aspect is a critical consideration in how celebrities approach dating.
Reality Behind Celebrity Dating Stereotypes, as Seen by Alessandra Conti
- Challenging Stereotypes: Conti confronts the stereotypes about celebrity infidelity, acknowledging, "I cannot tell you how many stories I hear... of infidelity among celebs." This highlights the dichotomy between public perception and private behaviors in the celebrity world.
- Breaking Down Misconceptions: Despite prevailing stereotypes, Conti's experiences show that not all celebrities fit these molds. She recalls working with a client who was surprisingly different from her media portrayal, emphasizing the diverse nature of celebrity personalities and dating preferences.
Matchmaking for Celebrities
- The Art of Matchmaking for Celebrities: Conti describes the intricate process of matchmaking for celebrities, noting, "Our company also plans all of the dates for our Clients." This level of detail highlights the bespoke nature of matchmaking in the celebrity world.
- Overcoming Challenges in Love: Conti shares insights into the unique obstacles celebrities face in finding true love. She recounts a situation where a potential match for a famous client backed out due to her controversial public image, illustrating the impact of media portrayal on personal relationships.
- Prioritizing Confidentiality and Privacy: In her role, Conti emphasizes the paramount importance of confidentiality in celebrity dating. She discusses the lengths to which celebrities go to protect their privacy, such as using pseudonyms and being cautious about personal information sharing.
The Best Dating Sites in San Francisco for Long-Term Relationships
Since there are so many dating apps and sites on the market, some better than others, choosing the right one can be hard. If you know what you’re looking for, narrowing down your choices is easier. Here are two of our favorite dating apps for people looking for long-term relationships:
eHarmony is the best San Francisco dating site to find a relationship
eHarmony is one of the most well-known dating sites on the market because it has been around since 2000. It’s a popular dating site amongst people who want to find love. In fact, 3 out of 4 marriages that start online started on eHarmony.
Its success is partly due to the in-depth questionnaire that all users complete when they sign up. It asks you questions about your interests, lifestyle, and preferences in a partner to match you with someone you may actually be compatible with. This is a great time saver and an amazing way to find a potential partner.
Coffee Meets Bagel is a great place to find serious connections
Coffee Meets Bagel is a unique dating app as it eliminates the need for constant swiping. Instead, users receive a daily match recommendation at noon. This allows you to focus on talking to one person at a time so you can really get to know them and start planning a date. Coffee Meets Bagel remains a pretty popular dating app choice, especially for those who want to take things a step at a time.
The Best Hookup Sites in San Francisco
Not everyone is after a long-term relationship when they sign up for dating apps and websites, but finding a hookup or casual relationship can be tough if you’re not looking in the right places. Here are two of of the best San Francisco hookup sites:
AFF is one of the best casual dating sites in San Francisco
Another dating site that has been on the market forever is Adult Friend Finder or AFF. But instead of helping people find love, it helps them find hookups. The site is clearly advertised as such, so there’s no confusion about what anyone’s intentions are.
It’s a paid dating site, which can put some people off, but we think it’s a great investment. Membership gives you access to plenty of fun features and it allows you to find higher-quality matches. When you’re ready, you can match with people based on distance, so you shouldn’t struggle to find a hottie near you.
OkCupid is turning into a popular hookup app
Although OkCupid started as a dating app to help people find long-term relationships, it’s now used mostly as a hookup app. In fact, we think it’s the best free hookup site in San Francisco as people still care about compatibility, so you’re bound to find a hookup you can actually connect with. The free features are limited, but it’s enough to find local hookups.
The Best Free Dating Sites in San Francisco
If you know what you’re looking for on these dating apps, deciding between free and paid ones is your next big decision. Free dating apps can be tempting, but it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for.
We know plenty of singles, ourselves included, who have had way more success on paid dating apps. This is because they offer better features and people who pay for memberships tend to be more serious about the experience.
If you’re hesitant to pay for a membership right off the bat, take advantage of a free trial or use a free dating app first. This allows you to test the waters so you can get to know the online dating world before investing in a membership.
Here are three of the best free dating sites in San Francisco:
- Hinge
- Bumble
- Tinder
All three are free to download and use with the option to pay for additional features when you’re ready so you get the best of both worlds.
Safety & Precautions for Online Dating Apps
Ready to start exploring the apps in this guide? To be cautious, the following best-practices will help you navigate the potentially dangerous world of online dating and avoid common pitfalls:
| Best Practice | Description |
| Use Strong Passwords | Create unique, strong passwords for your dating app accounts to prevent unauthorized access. |
| Avoid Oversharing Personal Info | Limit the amount of personal information you share in your profile or with matches, especially sensitive data like your address, workplace, or financial details. |
| Verify Profiles When Possible | Use available features on apps for photo or identity verification to ensure authenticity of profiles you interact with. |
| Keep Conversations Within the App | Initially keep conversations within the app to take advantage of the app’s security measures and avoid sharing your personal contact information too soon. |
| Be Cautious with Links and Attachments | Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unfamiliar sources to protect against malware or phishing attacks. |
| Meet in Public Spaces | For initial meetings, choose public and well-populated areas. Inform a friend or family member about your plans and location. |
| Use the App's Safety Features | Familiarize yourself with and utilize any safety features offered by the dating app, such as blocking and reporting suspicious users. |
| Be Wary of Money Requests | Be suspicious of requests for money or donations, no matter how convincing the reason may seem. |
| Check for Secure Communications | Ensure the app uses secure communication channels (look for HTTPS in the web address for web-based platforms). |
| Regularly Update the App | Keep the app updated to ensure you have the latest security patches and features. |
| Research Potential Matches | Conduct a basic online search or check social media to validate the authenticity of someone’s profile and claims. |
| Trust Your Instincts | If something feels off about a match or conversation, trust your instincts and discontinue communication. |
Remember, while following these best practices can enhance your safety, they cannot guarantee complete protection. Always use your judgment and proceed cautiously when interacting with new people on dating apps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dating Apps in San Francisco
What is the most popular dating app in San Francisco?
- eHarmony
- AFF
- Kippo
- Ship
- Hinge
What is the most used dating app in California?
eHarmony is one of the most reliable dating apps in California for relationships.
How do I meet singles in San Francisco?
The best way to meet singles in San Francisco is by using reliable dating apps like eHarmony and AFF.
How do you find love in San Francisco?
eHarmony consistently helps singles in San Francisco find long-term relationships.
Is San Francisco good for singles?
Yes! With a thriving social scene and lots of singles, San Francisco is one of the best cities for singles looking for love or some casual fun.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Online Dating Apps?
Online dating apps provide convenience, a wider pool of potential matches, and the ability to filter and find people with specific interests or characteristics.
How Can I Create an Effective Online Dating Profile?
To create an effective profile, use clear and honest information, include recent photographs, and highlight unique aspects of your personality and interests.
Is It Safe to Meet People Through Online Dating Apps?
While online dating can be safe, it's important to take precautions such as meeting in public places, informing friends about your plans, and trusting your instincts about potential matches.
How Can I Identify and Avoid Scams on Dating Apps?
Be cautious of profiles that seem too good to be true, never send money or personal information, and report any suspicious behavior to the app's customer service.
What Should I Do on a First Date with Someone I Met Online?
Choose a public and comfortable meeting place, keep the conversation light and positive, and be yourself to assess compatibility.
How Can I Manage Rejections on Online Dating Platforms?
Understand that rejection is a normal part of the dating process, don't take it personally, and use it as an opportunity to learn and improve your approach.
What Are the Best Practices for Communicating on Dating Apps?
Start with light and engaging conversations, avoid overly personal or sensitive topics initially, and be respectful and attentive to the other person's responses.
How Long Should I Chat with Someone Before Meeting in Person?
The duration varies, but it's generally recommended to meet sooner rather than later to determine real-life chemistry and avoid building unrealistic expectations.
Can Long-Distance Relationships Work Through Online Dating?
Yes, they can work with effective communication, mutual effort, and regular visits, but they require more patience and understanding.
How Do I Choose the Right Dating App for My Needs?
Consider factors like your dating goals (casual vs. serious), lifestyle, interests, age group, and the app's reputation and features.
Are Paid Dating Apps Better Than Free Ones?
Paid apps can offer more serious and committed users, advanced features, and better privacy controls, but free apps can still be effective.
How Can I Stay Positive if I’m Not Having Success on Dating Apps?
Take breaks if needed, adjust your strategy, seek feedback, and remember that finding a compatible match often takes time and patience.
Should I Be Honest About My Intentions on a Dating App?
Yes, being clear and honest about your intentions, whether looking for a casual relationship or something serious, helps attract compatible matches.
How Do I Deal with Ghosting on Dating Apps?
Accept that ghosting is part of online dating, don't blame yourself, and focus on matches who are more communicative and interested.
What Are the Signs of a Healthy Relationship Formed Online?
A healthy online relationship includes mutual respect, consistent communication, honesty, and both parties feeling comfortable and valued.
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States101 (n.d.) San Francisco County, California.
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.
