Although there are plenty of eligible singles in Washington, DC, finding the one for you can be tough. Online dating, however, has made things easier! This is why you should be aware of the best dating apps and sites in Washington DC. For those of you who want quick answers, here’s a list of the dating apps that have always worked for us:
eHarmony, AFF, Tinder
Site Our Experience Our Rating Free Trial Link 
Experience Highlights Try eHarmony 
Experience Highlights Try AFF For Free 
Tinder Highlights Try Tinder
And despite the long-lasting effects of COVID-19, online dating offers the best opportunity to find so many incredible people in one place - online! Dating sites and apps are now the go-to place to find your soulmate (or your next fling).
Here’s some good news: With 72.2% of women and 64.3% of men in DC being single, and 80% of households having internet access, the potential for online dating is immense.
Of course, how do you find the right apps for dating in DC? That’s right, rely on Heart Insider to show you the way!
At HeartInsider, our team of experts has tested over 150 dating apps so you don’t have to. Whether you live near the president in Capitol Hill or in Kalorama near Jeff Bezos, we know which ones you should try!
Editor’s Note: If you know of an app or site that you think should be on our list, let us know in the comments below!
Methodology: How We Evaluate the Best Dating Apps in Washington D.C.
To ensure our readers get a thorough guide to the most effective dating apps in Washington D.C., each HeartInsider writer follows a rigorous and detailed methodology. Our reviews stand out from other dating sites by being current, thoroughly researched, and informed by local insights specific to the dating dynamics of Washington D.C.
| Methodology | Description | Key Focus |
| Rigorous Testing | Detailed evaluation of dating apps through extensive use, focusing on their effectiveness within the unique context of Washington D.C.'s dating scene. | App functionality, local relevance in Washington D.C. |
| Anecdotal Experience | Drawing from the experiences of a diverse team of dating and relationship coaches, with a special focus on their experiences in Washington D.C. | Real-life dating scenarios in Washington D.C. |
| Expertise | Leveraging years of experience in the dating scene to provide relevant and impactful advice, tailored to the specific needs and trends of Washington D.C. | Dating trends, strategy specific to Washington D.C. |
| Continuous Learning | Constantly exploring new trends and approaches in dating, especially those emerging in Washington D.C., to ensure the advice remains current and effective. | Emerging local trends, innovative dating tactics in Washington D.C. |
| Local Focus | A strong emphasis on how online dating and virtual communication are shaping dating in Washington D.C., including analysis of local apps, sites, and communication trends. | Online platforms, virtual communication in Washington D.C. |
| Community Engagement | Encouraging engagement from Washington D.C. readers to share their experiences, thereby fostering a local community and enhancing the overall dating experience. | Reader feedback, community interaction in Washington D.C. |
Author Credentials:
Hey there, Washington DC singles! It's John Clarke here, your dedicated Dating Coach at Heart Insider. Navigating the online dating scene in DC can be a bit of a rollercoaster, right? With so many apps and sites out there, finding the right one that fits your needs and lifestyle can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But don't worry, I've got your back!
As someone who's been in the dating coaching game for nearly a decade, I've seen it all when it comes to online dating. I've witnessed firsthand how different apps work for different people, and I've gathered a wealth of insights and techniques to help you succeed in this digital love arena.
Let's dive into some of the best dating apps and sites in Washington D.C. These platforms cater to a wide range of preferences, whether you're looking for a serious relationship, a casual fling, or something in between.
Affiliate Disclaimer:
When you buy through links on Heart Insider, we may earn a commission. This doesn't affect our review or comparison integrity. We strive for impartiality in guiding your decisions. The views expressed on Heart Insider are our own. It's important to verify product claims with the manufacturer. We have financial relationships with some companies mentioned and prioritize providing accurate information.
#1 - Hily makes dating fun (Android; iOS)
All you need is a good laugh with the right person to know they’re the one. Without a relaxed, lighthearted interaction - without having fun - that just isn’t possible. With Hily, you can have those conversations; you can have the conversations that give you butterflies - the ones that make you laugh until you cry. The ones that make you fall in love.
Find someone who makes you happy with Hily.
Why Hily is a great dating app
- Hily is meant for people who want a fun dating experience
- There are options to match with people internationally
- Video chat with amazing people through the app
What we don’t like about it
- With some phones, the app doesn’t perform well
- Plenty of features are trapped behind paywalls
What people think of Hily
J “Deep Freq” Drizzle - TrustPilot
“Needs work but is still legit.
The app is pretty good, but it still needs some work. The algorithm it uses to find potential matches seems to be off quite a bit and every time I get more than one unblur they all disappear after use one of them. That being said, the support team is quick to respond and fix any issues. I haven't seen any OF ads in the form of people's profiles like other apps typically would have. The amount of money that it costs to really utilize the app is a bit much but everything aside I'd say the app works pretty well.”
#2 - eHarmony (Android; iOS) is one of the best dating sites in Washington DC for long-term relationships
eHarmony is extremely popular here and has an amazing track record of helping Washington DC locals find long-term partners by using matching algorithms. This app does the best job of matching you up with compatible potential mates that we've seen.
You don't have to scroll for hours. The app does all of the tough work for you. Of course, you might not make a perfect connection outside of the algorithms. Usually, it works like magic. The toughest part is answering all of the questions. It's important because this is how they match you with other single people. You can build chemistry before you even meet.
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're serious about finding long-term partners this is the site for you.
Why eHarmony is one of the best dating sites in Washington DC
- The best success rate out there 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
Mark Broderick - Google Play
“much better than other apps I've used, this sounds strange but it's better because it's expensive and you have to pay to get anything out of it, so there's none of this ' can't see likes' rubbish and because you have to pay I think it makes people more invested and geniune”
Emory Sims - TrustPilot
“I am very happy that eHarmony has been patient with me because I need time to make some personal adjustments before I decide to date. I am very happy and living the best days of my life. eharmony will help me find the right person. Thank you eharmony.”
What’s your experience been like using eHarmony in Washington D.C.? Comment below and share your story with the HeartInsider community.
#3 - TanTan makes conversations genuine (Android; iOS)
TanTan: a brilliant dating app that helps you (a brilliant person) with other equally brilliant people. Their goal is to connect genuine people in a genuine way.
So, if you’re tired of conversations that lack substance - conversations that make you want to pull your hair out of your head - then join TanTan today. Find someone genuine, rekindle lively conversations, and feel what it means to be connected once again.
Here’s why you’ll love TanTan
- TanTan focuses on connecting you with genuine people who value honest and profound conversations
- You can match with people from all around the world
- You don’t need to spend money to have a good experience
What we don’t like about it
- The app can be quite finicky
- There are more users in Asia than in the United States
What people think of TanTan
James P - Google Play
“Honestly 3 stars is the most I can give this app. The biggest two problems with the app is there is absolutely no effort in trying to keep scammers, spammers, and promotional commercial sexual services down and honestly that's just it. So the two problems are lack of moderation(the user is the better moderator here) and there are just so many fake profiles on here. The best thing about the app is the functionality and the freedom. It let's you send pictures, voice messages, videos, etc.”
#4 - AFF is the easiest way to find a fling
AFF should be your first choice when you're not looking for a relationship but still want some fun in the bedroom. We've tried a lot of different apps for this (most are awful) and only a couple have proven to work over and over. Tinder is great if you're under 25 but once you get beyond that AFF has shown the best results out of any dating site in Washington DC we've tried, especially for guys.
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. If you're 25+ and want to take someone home this is your app.
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.
Why you should try AFF
- They have a massive number of users on their app (over 50 million)
- We’ve seen guys have the best success using it, especially those who aren’t super good looking and didn’t do well on Tinder
- It’s very straightforward and easy to use
What we don’t like about it
- Many users can only access it via web app
- The app is a little dated and not as polished as some others
- Sometimes people are a little TOO upfront with what they want
What people think of AFF
1 1 - Google Play
“this is gonna sound crazy but this site changed my life and motivated me to finally reach my weight loss goal. i created an account in early 2021. long story but some that i met here, and also some that i met THRU the people that were on here, were life changing. although it didnt work out the way i wanted, it inspired me to put my account to the side, lose 50 lbs, and then in other places (not aff), i found what was meant for me. so i thank you aff- you were the rocket i needed for lift off.”
u/Changeusername5 - Reddit
“I think it partially comes down to the area you live in. I live within 30 minutes of a large city and have had decent success with the website. Yes, there are bots but they’re pretty easy to spot. Assume that any girl who has model looks or professional photos is likely fake. I find it humorous that a guy who is, say a 5 on a scale of 1 through 10, falls for messages from a gal who’s clearly way out of his league. When I message women on there I typically focus on those that are 7 or 8’s, as most bots use very attractive photos of themselves to reel in suckers.”
What’s your experience been like using AFF in Washington D.C.? Comment below and share your story with the HeartInsider community.
#5 - Hinge is great for getting to know someone (Android; iOS)
Hinge is the perfect dating app for people who want to get to know their matches. Hinge seamlessly integrates pictures and conversation prompts, so users can learn more about their matches beyond just their looks.
Users must upload six pictures and answer some conversation prompts. To match with someone, you must like or comment on a specific aspect of someone’s profile. This is a great way of ensuring people are actually looking at others’ profiles and not just blindly matching with anyone.
Why Hinge is one of our favorite apps
- Hinge is free to use and users can pay for additional features
- You receive a daily match recommendation
- Profiles include both pictures and fun conversation prompts
What we don’t like about it
- You may not be compatible with your daily match because Hinge doesn’t have personality tests
- There is a limit of ten likes per day with the free version
What people think of Hinge
Ariadne Baxter - Google Play
“Hard to delete this app. Wish there was simply a canel button. Hard to get a hold of customer service as well. I've had to do this twice now where I do a stop payment at my bank to end the subscription. I do enjoy certain features of the app particularly where people can leave a voice clip on their profile. You can tell a lot about a person from their voice. I also like paying for the platform because men tend to be a lot more respectful.”
#6 - Plenty of Fish is one of the most successful dating apps (Android; iOS)
Plenty of Fish was inspired by the saying “there’s plenty of fish in the sea” when referring to dating. Plenty of Fish is thus a dating app to help you find the perfect fish. When you sign up, you must answer a detailed personality test. You will then receive match recommendations based on your answers, so you are more likely to actually have something in common. You can also search for matches yourself if you prefer.
Why Plenty of Fish is consistently one of the best Washington DC dating apps
- There are over 4 million active users on Plenty of Fish daily
- You will receive daily match recommendations you should be compatible with
- Users don’t need to match to message one another
What we don’t like about it
- There are many fake or outdated profiles on Plenty of Fish
- Finding your own matches can be time-consuming as there are limited search criteria
What people think of Plenty of Fish
Pamela Cooper - Google Play
“I have met some nice men on this app. It takes time though.”
#7 - The Inner Circle offers a selective dating experience (Android; iOS)
The Inner Circle is one of the best dating apps in Washington DC for people who prefer quality over quantity. Many dating apps emphasize a huge dating pool so you can get tons of matches. The Inner Circle only allows young professionals so people can actually make an authentic connection.
To sign up, you must have an active Linkedin or Facebook account and The Inner Circle will decide whether you make the cut or not. This helps keep the dating pool exclusive so users can make quality connections. Once you’re approved, you can search for matches with detailed search criteria to find the perfect person.
Why The Inner Circle is such a great dating app
- Detailed search criteria help users find the perfect match
- There is an extensive vetting process to sign up so everyone is a good fit
- One of the best Washington DC dating apps if you want to attend exclusive events for members
What we don’t like about it
- You can’t send or receive messages with the free version
- Location is based on the nearest city, making it harder for people in the suburbs to meet people
What people think of The Inner Circle
Thijs Hermes - Google Play
“Best dating app ever used (so far)”
#8 - Bumble is one of the best Washington DC dating apps for women who like to be in control (Android; iOS)
Bumble is one of the best dating apps for women who want control over their dating life. Most dating apps have more men than women, so women can be overwhelmed by constant messages. On Bumble, this won’t happen as the woman has to make the first move. Once both users like each other, the woman has to message first or the match will disappear within 24 hours. This gives them a say on who can message them so they won’t be bombarded by unwanted advances. It’s a great way to keep women on the app!
Why Bumble has made our list
- It’s one of the best dating apps in Washington DC for singles in their 20s and 30s
- Women can choose who can message them
- Bumble is very user friendly
What we don’t like about it
- Some women get cold feet and unmatch before sending a message
- Not many women are used to having to make the first move
What people think of Bumble
lihmarra Og - TrustPilot
“sooooooooo keeping it short and sweet. My bestie told me to join Bumble, November 24ish I adhered, as I am boring go work go home sod. I started to speaking to The Love of my life,Friday 25th we exchanged numbers that friday afternoon and arranged a date for Saturday 26th. We planned to watched Wakanda /Black panther, I collected him from his home I choose to drive for my safety to a local London Cinema for us both. We Shared Sushi and Egg fried Rice we watched the film. I dropped him home around 1am ,we held hands througout the film and had a small kiss before he left. He flew out on holiday the sunday after our date. We are now married after only 7 weeks what an unexpected beautiful experience. So much has happened in between hasn’t been perfect met each others families we got married 16/1/2023. ME A WHOLE WIFE 😅Thank you GOD , My bestie ,My husband and Bumble”
#9 - Our Time is perfect for seniors (Android; iOS)
Our Time is one of the best dating apps in Washington DC for singles over 50 to find their match. Using popular dating apps like Tinder and Bumble when you’re older can be tough. The dating pool is mostly younger people looking for flings. On Our Time, you won’t have that issue as everyone will be over 50.
Using Our Time is super easy even if you aren’t tech-savvy as you will receive ten-match recommendations every day. If you prefer, you can also look for matches on your own. On your profile, you can include whether you’re looking for a casual relationship, marriage, or even penpals to attract people looking for the same thing.
Why Our Time is our favorite dating app for the older crowd
- Everyone on the app will be around your age
- You receive ten curated matches daily
- Members can send emails, chats, texts, gifts, flirts, or even talk on the phone through Our Time
What we don’t like about it
- Having so many features may overwhelm some users
- You need a paid membership to send messages
What people think of Our Time
Michael L. - SiteJabber
“This site is all it says it is and more. Theres real people on this site and they contact you and if they like you they meet you and not make you waste money. I found the love of my life in 3 weeks and were both so happy. The women on here are 100% real and if they contact you its not fake. I hope more people use this site. I have tryed 9 sites and this was the only site thats amazing. Please use this site if your smart.”
The Best Dating Sites in DC for Long-Term Relationships
Are you looking for something long-term? For someone to be by your side forever? Do you want to snuggle up next to your dream guy/girl for the rest of your life? Maybe you’re just tired of partners entering your life, then leaving the next minute. Well, if any of those rings true, then this is the section for you.
Here are our top-2 picks for the best long-term dating apps in DC.
eHarmony is the go-to app for relationships
eHarmony is a dating site bound to find you, love. These guys have been in the business for 20 years already, and have made countless people’s lives better (people just like you). They make finding the love of your life, not a journey rife with pain and struggle, but instead something relaxing, enjoyable, and certain.
So, if you’re looking for a long-term dating site that’s reliable, then this is the option for you. Find who you were meant to be with… find your soulmate. Make your dreams come true with eHarmony today. Live the life you’ve always wanted to.
Hinge has lots of singles looking for love
Hinge, whether you believe it or not, actually works great for finding long-term love. No, it doesn't work quite as well as eHarmony under most circumstances, but it still can work great. You might have to do some more searching, some more “dating around” if you will, but if you can make it through that, you’ll be certain to find the one meant for you.
The Best Hookup Sites in DC
Looking to get freaky in the sheets tonight? Want someone to make your night - just tonight - filled with ecstasy and bliss? We’ve been there - we get you. Sometimes you don’t want something serious… sometimes you just want to have fun. Sometimes you don’t want to worry about what comes next, you just want to focus on what is happening right here, right now.
Here are our top picks for the best DC hookup sites.
AFF is one of the best dating sites for casual flings
If you want a fling, and you want one fast, then AFF is where you’ll find it. For years now AFF has been finding hookups for people just like you at unprecedented rates. This dating site was literally created to bring people together that want to have some fun and nothing more. It has worked for hundreds of thousands of individuals, and it’ll work for you too.
The first thing that’s going to come to mind when you go to their website is how hideous the design of it looks. But, remember: looks aren’t everything (at least when it comes to websites). Their service still works better than any other option out there. So, that’s why we’ve picked it as the best free hookup site in DC… because that’s exactly what you’re going to get - a hookup.
If you’re hot, Tinder works wonders
What makes Tinder great is its versatility. What we mean by that is the fact that you’ll be able to find someone to hook up with, date casually, have a long-term relationship with, and everything in between - it just matters what you’re looking for. With that, though, comes the issue of finding the right person for you; with such a large pool of singles, it’ll take some searching before you find a hookup because not everyone wants what you do. For that reason, we think Tinder is one of the best casual dating sites in DC.
Navigating Online Dating in Washington, D.C.: Experts Weigh In
Finding love in Washington, D.C., can be challenging for busy young professionals, leading many to turn to online dating. However, the reality often falls short of expectations. According to Sharon Rosenblatt in an article by The Washington Post, who used online dating for seven years, it can be time-consuming and discouraging. She stated, "Sometimes it was fun, but it was also very time-consuming and exhausting. It’s easy to get discouraged."
Research indicates that online dating doesn't always result in meaningful relationships. Clinical psychologist Adele D'Ari emphasizes the importance of understanding your motives for online dating and being honest about them. D'Ari stated, "Once you are clear about what you want and what your expectations are, and you are brave enough to communicate them, you will have a much better chance of finding a partner."
Being clear about your intentions not only helps you find a compatible partner but also saves time and energy. Sharon Rosenblatt found success in online dating when she decided to be completely authentic about her wants and values. Research supports this notion, indicating that highlighting unique interests can lead to better outcomes in online dating.
It's essential to set limits on your online dating activities and focus on quality rather than quantity. Finally, meeting your online matches in person as soon as you feel comfortable can reduce the risk of disappointment.
In Washington, D.C., finding love online can be challenging, but by understanding your motives, being authentic, setting limits, and meeting in person, you can improve your chances of finding a meaningful connection in the digital dating world.
The Best Free Dating Sites in DC
Free is AWESOME! These three apps will help you get a date, find a long-term partner, or hook up without you having to drop a single dollar. But, don’t forget: free options are free for a reason. They’ll work eventually, but that’s just it - you might have to do some searching, waiting, and withstand a few disappointments before finding who you’re looking for.
Here are our picks for the best free dating sites in DC.
- Coffee Meets Bagel
- Bumble
- Hinge
FAQ on Best Dating Apps in Washington DC with Expert Insights
How important is political affiliation in Washington DC's Dating Scene?
The impact of political affiliations on dating apps is a topic that has garnered attention in recent years, especially given the increasing polarization in political views.
Experts in the field have noted that political labels on dating app profiles have become more than just a statement of one’s political leanings; they often serve as a litmus test for potential compatibility. According to Pamela Rutledge, Ph.D., M.B.A., Director of the Media Psychology Research Center and a professor of media psychology at Fielding Graduate University, “Political labels become litmus tests to screen and judge others, especially on dating app profiles where political beliefs are broadcast more prominently than ever before." (Full article available at Psychology Today)
Plenty of studies confirm that Washington D.C.’s biggest obstacle to dating is political affiliation:
A study from Pew Internet reported that a significant number of Democrats wouldn't consider having a relationship with a Trump voter. "Among Democrats and those who lean toward the Democratic Party who are single but looking for a relationship, about seven-in-ten (71%) say they probably or definitely would not consider being in a committed relationship with someone who voted for Donald Trump. In fact, 45% say they definitely would not consider seriously dating a Trump voter." Anna Brown, research associate at Pew Research Center
Similarly, Dating.com found that a large majority of singles surveyed were not interested in dating someone with opposing political views, with OkCupid noting that a significant portion of female users felt the same way. "Singles turn to online dating to find a distraction from what is going on in the world and don't want it being polluted with politics. However, one of the most important aspects of a relationship is the alignment of political views. In many cases, we see relationships not lasting because a difference in beliefs.” Maria Sullivan, Dating Expert and Vice President of Dating.com
This trend has led to the inclusion of political filters on major dating platforms like OkCupid, Hinge, and Bumble, allowing users to eliminate matches with incompatible political views.
What should I include in my dating bio for dating in Washington DC?
In an article for The Independent, dating expert James Preece emphasizes that while it's crucial to focus on what interests you in a dating app bio, placing too much emphasis on political views can limit your chances of finding love. "It’s much better to focus on what does interest you. Don’t write about what you don’t like but keep things positive instead.” Preece adds, “There’s isn’t much space on a dating app bio so make sure it counts. If you write positive things, people will assume you are positive all the time."
He suggests that even if you have strong political views, it's beneficial to remain open to different perspectives, as opposites can attract and differing views can serve as an interesting conversation starter.
How Does the Political Climate in Washington DC Affect Dating?
The political landscape in Washington DC can significantly influence dating dynamics. Many individuals in the city are politically active or work in related fields, making political affiliations and views important factors in dating compatibility.
What Are the Unique Challenges of Dating in Washington DC?
Dating in Washington DC can be challenging due to the city's fast-paced lifestyle, diverse population, and the transient nature of many residents who come for government and political jobs but may not stay long-term.
Are There Specific Dating Trends Unique to Washington DC?
Washington DC's dating scene often reflects its status as a hub for professionals and politicians. This leads to trends such as networking-style dating events, a focus on career-driven or politically-minded partners, and a higher emphasis on intellectual compatibility.
References:
Brown, A. (2020) Most Democrats who are looking for a relationship would not consider dating a Trump voter. Pew Research Center.
Dating.com (2020) Dating.com reveals sharing your political party might be a dating deal-breaker. PR Newswire.
Kecmanovic, J. (2019) Beware ‘rejection mindset’: Tips for a saner, more successful dating-app experience. The Gazette.
Kecmanovic, J. (2019) Five ways to enjoy online dating while improving your chances, according to a psychologist. The Washington Post.
Petter, O. (2018) This is how stating your political views in your dating app bio impacts your chances of success. Independent.
Rutledge, P. B. (2020) Finding a date in a politically polarized world. Psychology Today.
Senkus, T. (2024) 2024 eHarmony review. Heart Insider.
Senkus, T. (2024) Adult FriendFinder review 2024. Heart Insider.
United States Census Bureau (2023) QuickFacts District of Columbia.
Contributing Author:
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.
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