While dating sites and dating apps remain a popular topic of conversation amongst Americans, only 21% of American adults claim to have used one. Of those who have used dating sites and apps, more adults aged 35-54 (76%) have gone on dates with someone they met online than younger users, aged 18-34 (47%). Out of those who have ever used online dating sites or apps, more divorced Americans have gone on dates with someone they met through an online dating site or app (74%) than those respondents who indicated they are currently single (55%) or married (62%).
The majority of Americans think that it’s easier to meet someone online than at a public place (52%). Americans are warming up to online dating sites or apps with 44% stating that it is acceptable for people of all ages to to use online dating sites or apps. Over half of Americans with children under 18 (54%) and Americans who have a household income of more than $80,000 (52%) agreed that nowadays it is easier to meet someone online than in a bar or public space. Over one third of Americans (36%) believe that relationships formed through online dating sites are just as likely to succeed as relationships formed elsewhere.
Online dating site and dating app users are cautious about their fellow users. Out of those respondents who indicated that they have ever used online dating sites or apps 44% have felt that that someone they saw on an online dating site or app was misrepresenting themselves, 33% say they were contacted by someone who made them feel uncomfortable, women (46%) more so than men (22%). However, only 6% of those who use online dating sites claim to have misrepresented themselves online.
Although 18% of Americans believe that online dating sites or apps offer too many options, spelling doom for those intending to create sustaining long-term relationships, 30% of Americans disagree.
Americans are probably right to be wary. 27% of adults admit that they have cheated on a significant other or partner, and 44% been cheated on by a partners at least once in their lifetime.
Have you ever used an online dating service?
