Best San Diego Dating Sites For Singles (From the Experts)

So, can the best San Diego dating apps finally lead you to "The One?" For starters, San Diego is saturated with singles searching for their soulmate or someone to satisfy an itch at least. According to the latest census data, San Diego County has a somewhat-competitive gender ratio, with 101 men to 100 women, but nearly 54% of all individuals in SD are single. What gives?

While these are promising stats, the lasting effects of the pandemic means meeting someone new typically involves starting online via dating apps. And because there are plenty of dating apps to choose from, men want to know which one is the best dating site for San Diego. Well, here’s a sneak peek:

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
Great If You're Handsome	Tinder Highlights Great if you're pretty good looking Very popular, especially if you're 18-22 Really focused on photos Becoming more of a dating than hookup app	8	Try Tinder

At HeartInsider, we get it: Your time is valuable and definitely limited, and you don’t want to waste money on useless apps. That’s why this guide is your ticket to success, where we’ll help you separate the sucky from the spectacular. From north to south, whether you’re in Del Mar or San Ysidro, there are singles like you who are seeking someone special. Who knows? Maybe your other half is basking in the Brawley sunshine.

The following is a list of dating apps that we’ve tried and found to be most successful. Give our list a gander and then give one of these apps a shot. Once you’re done, send us some love with a comment about your experience. We hope it will be incredible. 

Methodology: How We Review the Best Dating Apps in San Diego 

To bring our readers a comprehensive list of the Best Dating Apps in San Diego, our team of HeartInsider writers and editors follows strict and verifiable guidelines (see below). Unlike other men’s dating sites, our reviews are frequently updated, sourced by local experts, and as objective as possible–not rehashes of stuff you can find elsewhere. 

Author Credentials

Hello, dear readers! My name is John Clarke, long-time Dating Coach and contributor to dozens of guides on HeartInsider.com. As a San Diego resident and coach for over a decade, I’ve made it my life’s mission to help men maximize their dating success. Feel free to drop me a comment to share your personal experience with the apps and methods in this article. I wish you the best!

#1 - Christian Mingle (Android; iOS) is the best San Diego dating site for religious singles

Christian Mingle is the perfect dating site for single Christians looking to settle down. Everyone on the site is Christian, so it takes away the need for any awkward questions about religion. Having this shared belief helps you connect with your matches much easier.

It’s a niche site, but there are over 9 million users on it so you shouldn’t struggle to find a match. If you like someone and they like you back, you can start messaging each other. You can easily find matches by using the site’s search filter to narrow down your choices.

Why Christian Mingle is a great dating site in San Diego

What we don’t like about it

What people think of Christian Mingle

Joe Bennett - Google Play

“I am now a happily married man thanks to this app 😁❤️😁❤️😁 No but really, I met the most incredible young woman on here just over a year ago, and two days ago made her mine forever 🥰❤️ So blessed to have found each other on here. Thank you to everyone who has a part in making this service possible ❤️”

Is Christian Dating different than other forms of dating?

According to Pew Research Center’s recent stats on the religious demographics of San Diego, the city has a substantial Christian-identifying population at 68%. In light of these spiritual beliefs, you may be looking for a partner with similar values and religion.

In the modern era, Christian dating can be particularly challenging due to the changing cultural norms and the proliferation of dating apps and platforms. Noted author Billy Hallowell, in an article on Pure Flix Insider, shares insights and advice for Christians navigating the dating scene. This advice is rooted in biblical teachings and focuses on maintaining purity, setting an example, and aligning with Christian values in the pursuit of romantic relationships. Here are some highlights:

• One key aspect of Christian dating is the emphasis on loving God first. As Hallowell points out, this involves putting God at the center of one’s life and allowing Him to guide decisions, including those related to dating and marriage. This foundational principle sets Christian dating apart from other forms, as it prioritizes spiritual alignment and devotion above all else.
• Hallowell also stresses the importance of trusting in God's plan, especially in the context of finding a Christian partner. This trust is reflected in daily prayer and seeking God's guidance amid challenges. Additionally, the article encourages Christians to be confident in who they are, quoting 1 John 2:16 to caution against succumbing to worldly desires and pressures. 
• Author Kristin Fry, in her book "Beyond the Swipe," advises Christians to have a clear understanding of themselves and their standards before entering the dating world. This self-awareness and clarity are crucial in finding a partner who aligns with one’s Christian values and expectations.
• Fry emphasizes the need for Christians to be firm in their boundaries and not compromise their beliefs, even in the face of societal pressures. By focusing on these core principles and aligning dating practices with biblical teachings, Christian singles can navigate the complex dating landscape with greater clarity and purpose.

#2 - eHarmony (Android; iOS) is easily your best option for a real relationship

eHarmony has continued to impress us as the top option for most singles who really want a relationship. They aren't the newest dating site on this list but they certainly know what they're doing and it's made them one of the best dating sites in San Diego.

You need to keep the number 75% in mind when thinking about eHarmony. That's the percentage of marriages that started on this site. Seriously. 75% of all online dating marriages start here. Out of EVERY site and app. That is a crazy success rate.

A big reason why they have been so successful is they actually help you figure out what you want, and they have enough users to find you someone who matches those qualities. When you have ten's of millions of users and a great matching system you're going to have a lot of success. 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!

Check out their trial offer at the links above and below and check them out.

Why eHarmony is the best dating site in San Diego

What we don’t like about it

User Testimonial for eHarmony

Timothy Graham - TrustPilot

“So far so good. Scheduling coffee meetup. We shall see how it goes.”

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.

EHarmony is a fantastic option if you're looking for an online dating site that provides a wide range of alternatives for finding love.”

Have you used eHarmony? Leave a comment below and share your experience with the HeartInsider community.

Need More San Diego Dating Guides? HeartInsider has plenty…

If you’re loving this article and want to more about dating in San Diego, we’ve got you covered. Check out these great guides and listicles for San Diego dating:

The Best Spots For San Diego Hookups

Rob Chan, Dating Coach: “Bay Park Coffee is one of our favorite coffee shops in the city. The ambiance of this place is snug and comforting. And you know how that attracts a lot of the local girls. In fact, this is the best place to pick up girls in San Diego outside of the nightlife. Girls are immediately attracted to this place because of the natural lighting and plant decor.”

25 Great Places To Meet & Date Cougars In San Diego

Paul Cooper, Dating Expert: “San Diego, and the towns around it, are known for having some of the hottest cougars in America. Del Mar, for instance, which is 20 minutes outside San Diego, is called a cougar den despite how small it is. This means that almost every San Diego bar you'll step in will have cougars. However, some are far better than others. And that's what we're here for.”

The Best Places to Meet San Diego MILFs For Single Guys

Scott Mahoney, Dating Coach: “Looking for a fun hipster hangout to find a sassy and sophisticated MILF in San Diego? Try Bar Pink where you can meet an eclectic crowd while listening to a diverse, funky set of live bands. You’ll also get the chance to experience the “Sneaky Tiki,” a signature drink that you and your lady can fall in love with together.”

#3 - Hily (Android; iOS) is for the Youtube addicts

Hily is the dating app that takes things from text to video. While most dating apps are just pictures and text, Hily incorporates a ton of videos into your profile. We were a bit skeptical about it at first but it's actually kind of cool.

If you've ever looked at someone's profile and had serious doubts that it's legit then Hily is a godsend. It's so much more difficult to hide what you really look like in a video compared to an image that anyone can edit on their phone. Catfishers are going to hate this app!

We found that there were far fewer first-date "surprises" using this app than other options. Since you already know what someone looks and sounds like, you’ll know what you're getting yourself into, unless it's a super old video.

If you've been tricked before, give this app a shot.

Why Hily is worth downloading

What we don’t like about it

User Testimonial for Hily

Chris - TrustPilot

“Better than Tinder

I've gotten more dates here than Tinder, Bumble or Hinge. Almost every dating app is a scam now. At first look, Hily looks like a sketchy generic dating app, but it gets the job done. I've hooked up with multiple people from here.”

Using Hily Safely: Important Tips from Hily’s Privacy Policy

When using Hily, it's important to follow certain safety precautions to protect your personal information and ensure a safe online dating experience. Here are some safety tips based on Hily's privacy policy and general best practices:

• Be Cautious with Personal Information: Limit the amount of personal information you share in your profile or through messaging. Avoid posting sensitive details like your full name, address, phone numbers, and financial information.
• Think Before You Post: Carefully consider the information you share in your profile and posts. Remember that information you share can be seen by other users and potentially by people outside the app.
• Use Hily Tags Wisely: Use Hily tags to express your interests and preferences rather than sharing sensitive information directly in your profile text.
• Be Mindful of Photos You Share: Inspect your photos for any personal data or objects that you wouldn’t want to be public before uploading them to Hily.
• Secure Your Account: Make sure to log out of your profile when not using it, especially when accessing the app on a shared or public device.
• Keep Your Access Credentials Private: Do not share your login details with anyone and regularly change your passwords for added security.
• Monitor Your Account for Unauthorized Access: If you suspect someone else has accessed your account, change your password immediately and contact Hily support if necessary.
• Use Location Services Cautiously: Be aware that enabling location services can reveal your whereabouts. Manage these settings according to your comfort level.
• Be Wary of Third-Party Links: Hily may contain links to third-party websites; always be cautious when navigating to these as their privacy policies may differ.
• Use In-App Reporting Features: If you encounter suspicious or inappropriate behavior, use Hily’s reporting features to alert the moderators.

Remember, your safety and privacy on Hily are largely controlled by the decisions you make while using the service. Stay vigilant and practice good judgement in your interactions on the app.

#4 - AFF is the best hookup app in San Diego

AFF has been around for a while but in that time it's consistently been the best hookup app in San Diego (especially for guys). There are plenty of dating sites out there that claim to be good at this. In our experience, AFF and Tinder have been the only ones that can actually back it up.

Tinder is great, and we'll talk about it more later on, but it's mostly the top 10-15% of the most handsome guys competing for the attention of 70% of the women. It's great for them but awful for the rest of us.

AFF is different in a way that makes it the best hookup site in San Diego. Instead of being totally focused on a single profile photo, it allows guys to demonstrate their value and get attention from women even if they're not the most photogenic. Everyone on this site is looking to skip the small talk anyway so it's a very unique experience. If you're just looking for something physical, it's hard to beat and you can try it for free at the link below.

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 AFF is the best dating site in San Diego

What we don’t like about it

User Testimonial for AFF

The Adult Space - Quora

“Is the Adult FriendFinder site, and app worth it?

For many it is, but for everyone it isn’t.

These are the FACTS in my experience:

Their APP is not good, I wouldn’t use it.

Use the AFF site directly on phone, tablet without the app; it seems to be better updated/easier to use on mobile.

DON’T pay money upfront.

Get free access FIRST, “see this signup page”.

Spend time filling out your profile, browsing through local profiles, explore the possibilities before you commit financially. Adult Friend Finder is not for everyone.”

Mike T. - SiteJabber

“I enjoy my membership with AFF as much as I do it with couple other sites I use to have a guaranteed success. But guys, stop complaining that there are so many fake members on the site! Yes, dating industry is suffering from Nigerian scam and cam girls. Keep your mind clear and don't send any money to the members of the site. None of real members would ask money from you. And if hot looking girls inviting your to another site to have a private chat - report them straight away!”

Have you tried AFF? Leave a comment below and share your experience with the HeartInsider community.

AFF and AI: The Future of Casual Online Dating

Who knew that artificial intelligence and Adult Friend Finder went together like peanut butter and jelly? A recent article from Yahoo! Finance titled “Why AdultFriendFinder Leads the AI Wave in Adult Dating Sites” offers some keen insights into what you can expect in the very-near future when it comes to what dating will look like. 

In all honesty, the article is worth a read but it’s a big one… To help you get to the nitty-gritty and save time, we’ve narrowed down the most key points you’ll find throughout the article:

• Introduction of AI Technology: AdultFriendFinder is revolutionizing the adult dating scene by incorporating AI. This technology is not just a futuristic concept but a practical tool that significantly improves user interactions on the platform.
• Enhanced Matchmaking with AI: AI algorithms on Adult Friend Finder analyze extensive user data, including personal preferences and behavior patterns, leading to more compatible and satisfying connections.
• User Experience Personalization: Beyond matchmaking, AI also personalizes user interactions and streamlines site navigation, making the platform more intuitive and user-friendly.
• Setting Industry Standards: AdultFriendFinder's adoption of AI sets a new benchmark in the adult dating site industry, prompting other platforms to follow suit and enhance their services.
• Safety and Ethical Considerations: With the integration of AI, AdultFriendFinder addresses crucial ethical and privacy concerns. The platform ensures robust data protection measures to maintain user privacy and security.
• Future Predictions and Possibilities: The article speculates on the future impact of AI technology in AdultFriendFinder and the adult dating industry. It predicts more nuanced AI algorithms, improved user experiences, and a commitment to ethical practices.

#5 - Hinge (Android; iOS) is solid if you have a good network

Hinge started off as an app that connects you with friends-of-friends on Facebook. It's not solely based on that these days but it still plays an important part. In fact, we kind of like to describe it as a more mature Tinder. A lot of the experience is the same but more geared toward relationships rather than something for one night.

One of the best things about Hinge is that there’s more focus on personality compatibility compared to just initial attraction. Photos are still prominent, but most users tend to read each other’s bios to figure out if they’ll be compatible or not. So unlike Tinder (and in some cases Bumble), Hinge is more of a real dating app than a casual hookup app.

We actually liked Hinge quite a bit when we used it and had some good success. It's pretty popular and does a decent job of matching you up with other users. There’s just isn't a ton that sets it apart from the best dating apps in San Diego, since they aren't the best at anything in particular.

Why Hinge is a San Diego dating site worth downloading

What we don’t like about it

What people think of Hinge

Millan Woodhouse - TrustPilot

“Amazing I was on it for a while and it found me a girl I haven't talked to in 20 years🥲 I sent 1 Rose and boom let's just say fireworks we met and we remembered eachother when we were 10 amazing really happy, thank you hinge I'm now dateing her ❤️ 😊 all the memories came flooding back can't believe it since I was a kid 😪🥲 Fate!!! It dose work and you might find a friend when u was a kid 😯 Thank you hinge without you i would of never found her 😊”

#6 - MeetMe (Android; iOS) works for the 50+ crowd

MeetMe is another app that is pushing for connecting via video instead of the more traditional methods. In times like these, that can be a great thing for the 50+ crowd. They help create some real chemistry before you even risk something in person. Aside from this, there’s less of a chance you’ll encounter a catfish since video call features tend to be a strong deterrent.

MeetMe is also a lot more popular than you would expect. They claim to have 20 million active members, which is a lot, and have many of the usual features you expect from a top dating site.

They are also one of the few free dating apps on our list but you will have to deal with a bunch of ads. Overall, a good option for the older crowd which they tend to attract.

Why MeetMe is a good dating app

What we don’t like about it

What people think of MeetMe

Ace Williams - TrustPilot

“I actually met my gf on here. Been together for 3 years now.

Ty meetme for providing a place for people to find love , friendship, or even help people get out of their comfort zone and their shell.

The app has provided myself my soul mate and great friends and good times and fun.

Can go live , can battle , can support others it’s such a great app.”

#7 – Zoosk is one of our favorite dating apps in San Diego (Android; iOS)

Many young people use Tinder, and it’s become known for finding hookups. If that’s not what you’re after, Zoosk may be a good alternative to try. The app is full of young people looking for serious connections, and with over 35 million users, it may be the best place to find love.

The app is super easy to use, all you do is swipe right on a profile if it catches your eye or left if the person isn’t your type. The main focus is the bios as you can include 1500 characters to discuss yourself, your interests and what you’re looking for in a partner.

Why Zoosk is worth trying

What we don’t like about it

What people think of Zoosk

Bertha M. - SiteJabber

“Glad To Finally Find My Mr. Right

The site is Great, wasn't on only 24 to 36 hrs. When I met James. It is exhilarating and a Breath Of Fresh Air to finally met someone on the same page Wanting liking And Having the same interests in life. Thank you Zoosk.”

Zoosk vs. Match: What’s the Difference?

Have you considered using Zoosk and Match.com? To help you figure out which one best fits your dating style and demographics, internationally known confidence and dating coach Joe Elvin guides you through the nuances of each dating site in his article “Zoosk vs Match: Which App Has Been Performing Best in 2023 For Singles”. Here are some notable quotes from Elvin to help you make an informed decision:

• Zoosk: “Zoosk has a younger user base than Match. So, if you’re looking for someone in their late teens or early twenties, it’s probably a better bet for you. The website has invested a lot of effort into eliminating spammers and phishers from its platform. You’ll have to verify all your photos in order to message people. Still, if safety and security are important to you, Zoosk has you covered.”

• Match: “Match.com has been around since 1995. It is owned by The Match Group, which went on to create dating websites like Tinder, Hinge, OKCupid and Plenty Of Fish. While most younger singles flocked to these newer websites, there is plenty of action going on at Match.com too. It has an older user base than Zoosk, with 35-44 being the most popular age bracket, and it’s far more popular than Zoosk in many parts of the United States.”

• Which one should you choose? “It’s difficult to crown one of Zoosk and Match as the champion of online dating. They are far too similar in terms of the user experience they offer. However, due to its cheaper monthly subscription fee, we’d recommend you opt for Zoosk, especially if you’re based in Europe and searching for younger lovers. With that said, if you’re based in the United States and searching for older companions, Match is likely to be more fruitful for you.”

#8 - Tinder (Android; iOS) has to be on any list of the best dating sites in San Diego

Tinder is the app that everyone knows about and is one of the most tried San Diego dating apps. Sadly, most of us have not had a good experience using it (why else would you be here?). While it might be the best San Diego dating app for a small percentage of people it tends to fall flat for most.

When you're dealing with a free app that’s this popular, especially with those in their early 20's, there is going to be a TON of competition. As we mentioned before, the most attractive guys end up getting the vast majority of the attention leaving most guys empty-handed.

It's a great dating app to practice on and learn what works but don't expect to get great results unless you have great photos and a really good text game.

Why Tinder is an app you need to download

What we don’t like about it

What people think of Tinder

Adela - TrustPilot

“i found my parner!

and never been happier. i havent been active on tinder for years, but anytime i made a real connection with someone, it turned out to be a great date and i am still friends with those people.

tinder helped me figure out my sexuality and find people of similar interests, as we are often shy and wouldnt talk to each other otherwise.

even though im bad at texting, my partner had patience with me and we have been in a relationship for months and are getting engaged soon. i would recommend everyone to at least try. not just hook up. theres more.

Tinder! if you would like to get an article or longer review about how you have helped me, i would love to share!

Adela, CZ”

Don’t Be a “Tinder Swinder”

Want to avoid an uncomfortable Netflix and chill date? If so, you probably don’t want to put on the controversial Netflix documentary "The Tinder Swindler”. 

The documentary delves into the risks and realities of online dating, focusing on the story of a man named Simon Leviev who used the Tinder app to defraud women. The documentary has been widely watched and became the first documentary to top Netflix's global most-watched list. 

The film highlights the vulnerabilities of online dating, especially for women in their early 30s, who were the primary victims of Leviev's scams.The story unfolds like a real-life thriller, with Leviev posing as a billionaire's son and leveraging this fake persona to swindle women he met on Tinder. His convincing portrayal and the victims' belief in his lies point to the broader issues of deception and trust in online dating platforms. 

One of the key themes of the film is the difference in dating dynamics as women age, particularly in the context of online dating. The documentary suggests that older women may face more challenges and vulnerabilities in the digital dating world, a reality that can lead to desperation and compromised judgment.

In response to the film's popularity, Tinder banned Leviev from its platform, a small measure of justice for the women he deceived. The documentary concludes with the implication that, while online dating can be a tool for connection, it also harbors significant risks, especially for women seeking genuine relationships.

#9 - Luxy (Android; iOS) is one of the best dating sites in San Diego for 1%'ers

Luxy is the dating site that is 100% focused on becoming the best San Diego dating app for the "1%". They want to create a community of super successful people who only want to date people in their same tax bracket. If you're thinking "that's exactly what I want too" this is the app for you.

With a decent background checking system, Luxy is able to ensure that most of its users are actually from the “upper crust”. This draws in more users and makes it easier for you to find a date – if you’re in the right tax bracket, that is.

Naturally, this is going to be a fairly small user base, even in an expensive place like SD. However, they have a surprisingly decent number of people using the app. They're fairly new but seem to be growing pretty fast.

The app itself isn't anything special. It's decent but this app is mostly about who uses it.

Why Luxy is worth checking out

What we don’t like about it

What people think of Luxy

Reyes Maddison - TrustPilot

“I had an alright experience with Onluxy.com - nothing to really elavate it above almost good. The website was set up well and was pretty self explanatory, no probs with navigation. The prices were avg - bit of a bargain or two, but not anything spectacular. On the whole, it iss ok - could be better. Wouldn't realy recomment - it does the job, but there are better out there, definitly. A couple of small spelling mistaeks I noticed, but it was okay otherwise. Much to be desired on the quiality of the items though.”

Income Disparaties and Dating: What You Need to Know

According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data, San Diego has some of the most wealthy AND impoverished individuals in the USA - and everyone in between. 

With this in mind, do you earn more than your date? Or, vice versa? If so, the Upwise article “How do you handle income or debt disparity with your partner?” features a number of notable experts that offer ways to make managing your finances together less troublesome. The following are some pointers:

From Dr. Carla Manly, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist:

• “The simple acts of acknowledging, naming, and sharing emotions can be extremely connective. Plus, when partners share their feelings and fears openly, conversations are far less likely to be hijacked by suppressed emotions. Honesty builds a sense of teamwork by increasing trust and safety in the relationship.”

• “Couples who use ‘we’ language are far more likely to feel strongly bonded than those who use ‘I’ or ‘you’ language. It’s better to say ‘We can create a healthy financial future by mapping out a solid plan’ than ‘I can see that you need to get your finances in order.’”

• “Partners who have specific, team-oriented goals tend to feel more invested in the relationship overall. And when finance-oriented goals are created by both partners, there’s a natural desire to create a successful outcome.”
• “Conversations about finances can feel lighter when partners know that an uplifting reward is waiting.”

From Dulce Orozco, LMHC, Therapist:

• “We have been conditioned to give more value to things according to their monetary connection. Nevertheless, there are other ways to look at what each person offers, such as time and energy. I am constantly encouraging stay-at-home moms and dads to stop saying they don't work. In reality, they are continually working—they’re just not getting paid for it.”

• “Navigating an income or debt gap isn’t always easy, but giving each partner a turn to put their needs first can help stave off guilt or resentment. After paying one partner's student loan or working on improving one partner's credit for a year, the following year may be a time to invest in the other partner's career by hiring a business coach, for example.”

#10 - Jdate (Android; iOS) is for SD's 3%

Jdate is an app that I'd be surprised if any of San Diego's Jewish singles haven't heard about (3% of the population here). It's become such a part of the Jewish singles scene that pretty much everyone knows about it.

If you're Jewish and looking to meet other single Jews, you need to give it a shot. The app itself isn't amazing but it's going to be difficult to find more people who match the criteria you have.

Do yourself a favor and give in to any resistance you might have of trying it. It might be cliche but it's also one of the best dating sites in San Diego for this particular purpose.

Why Jdate is worth downloading

What we don’t like about it

What people think of Jdate

Elisheva Kendall - Google Play

“It has great potential, but MAJOR downside, you can't read any messages you receive if you don't pay for a subscription. I understand charging to send, but to receive, the people sending the message already paid, you want double!”

The Best Dating Sites in San Diego for Long-Term Relationships

To make your search for finding the best dating app easier, we want to narrow down our recommendations. If you’re looking for something serious, sticking to apps with like-minded users can be helpful. Here are two of our favorite dating apps for people looking for a long-term relationship:

eHarmony is the best San Diego dating site to find a relationship

One dating site that has been on the market for ages is eHarmony. Since its inception in 2000, it has helped over 600,000 couples find love and get married. This success is likely due to the in-depth questionnaire every user must take when they sign up. It weeds out the people who aren’t looking for something serious.

The site then uses your answers to match you with people you may be compatible with based on your shared interests or values. This makes it much easier to connect with someone so you can get straight to planning a date.

Plenty of Fish is a free and reliable option for serious connections

You’ve probably heard the saying, “There’s plenty of fish in the sea,” before and they are all on the dating app Plenty of Fish. It’s a great app for finding long-term relationships as it also uses a personality quiz to match users based on compatibility. Because it’s free and has been around for a while, you may come across some inactive profiles, but don’t let that stop you from finding real connections.

The Best Hookup Sites in San Diego

If a long-term relationship isn’t what you’re after, don’t worry, there are still plenty of apps you can try to have a little fun. Here are two of the best San Diego hookup sites:

AFF is one of the best casual dating sites in San Diego

Another dating site that has been on the market forever is AFF. This site is targeted directly to people looking for casual relationships or hookups, so there’s no confusion about what the other users’ intentions are. This saves you from the awkward small talk about what you’re looking for so you can get straight to planning a hookup.

It’s a paid dating site that can put some people off, but we think the membership is worth it. It gives you access to plenty of fun features and can help improve your chances of finding the right matches. You match with people based on distance, so you shouldn’t even have to travel far to have a little fun.

Tinder is the best free hookup site in San Diego

One of the most popular dating apps on the market today is Tinder. Its popularity is likely due to how easy it is to use the app. All you do is swipe through some pictures, read a short bio, and swipe right if you like the profile or left if you don’t. Because Tinder is so easy to use and is heavily focused on looks, it’s the perfect place to find a hookup even though it may not be advertised as a hookup site.

The Best Free Dating Sites in San Diego

Choosing the best dating app means you have to decide between paid and free ones. Free dating apps and sites can be fun, but they typically don’t offer the same results that paid ones do.

Think of the saying, “You get what you pay for,” because it definitely applies here. People who pay for dating memberships tend to be more serious about the experience, so they’ll put effort into actually connecting and meeting with you.

If you’re not ready to buy a membership just yet, don’t worry. You can take advantage of a free trial or use a free app to test the waters and get to know what type of features you like. Just don’t expect too much out of the free experience.

Here are three of the best free dating sites in San Diego:

Each of these dating apps is free with the option to pay for additional features when you’re ready.

Which Safety and Security Features Should I Look for in Dating Apps?

It's crucial for users to remain vigilant and take personal precautions when interacting with others online, even with these safety features in place. Use the following table to guide your decision making when choosing dating apps in San Diego:

Frequently Asked Questions on San Diego Dating Sites

What is the best dating site for San Diego?

The best dating site in San Diego would have to be eHarmony. It's quite popular in the city and shows you only compatible matches based on the information you provide. It may not be the absolute best site for hookups, but if you're looking to date seriously, then eHarmony is there to help you out.

How do I meet singles in San Diego?

There are a lot of places you can go to meet singles in San Diego, but the best way to do it is via dating sites. Think about it, you don't have to guess if they're single before approaching them, if they're on a dating site, they're very likely to be single and looking for what you're looking for.

Is San Diego good for dating?

San Diego has been placed in the top 10 best cities to date in the United States. The city is bustling with nightlife and tons of young single people looking to form relationships or have something casual.

Is Tinder used in San Diego?

Of course! Just like anywhere else in the US, Tinder is quite popular in San Diego. It doesn't mean it's the most useful dating site though, but it does have the most users.

What are some good dating sites for hookups in San Diego?

AFF (Adult Friend Finder) is often recommended for those looking for casual hookups in San Diego.

Are there any free dating sites in San Diego?

Yes, apps like Hinge, Bumble, and OkCupid offer free services with options for paid features.

What is the best dating site for older singles in San Diego?

MeetMe is popular among the 50+ crowd, offering video features to enhance connections.

Are there any niche dating sites for specific communities in San Diego?

Yes, Christian Mingle for Christian singles, Jdate for Jewish singles, and Luxy for high-income individuals are some examples.

How do I choose the right dating site for me in San Diego? 

Consider your relationship goals, preferred type of interaction (text or video), and whether you're seeking a specific community or a general audience.

What safety precautions should I take when using dating apps in San Diego?

Always meet in public places for first dates, inform someone about your plans, and trust your instincts. Avoid sharing too much personal information initially.

References:

Chan, R. (2024) The best spots for San Diego hookups in 2024. Heart Insider.

Cooper, P. (2024) The expert’s guide to meeting cougars in San Diego in 2024. Heart Insider.

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

Hallowell, B. (n.d.) 7 pieces of Christian dating advice: tips for relationships. PureFlix.

Mahoney, S. (2024) The best places to meet San Diego MILFs for single guys. Heart Insider.

Pew Research Center (n.d.) Adults in the San Diego metro area.

Poonia, G. (2023) ‘The Tinder Swindler’ victims continue coming forward. Where is Simon Leviev now? Deseret News.

Senkus, T. (2024) Adult FriendFinder review 2024. Heart Insider.

Senkus, T. (2024) 2024 eHarmony review. Heart Insider.

States101 (n.d.) San Diego County, California.

Tremblay, S. (n.d.) How do you handle income or debt disparity with your partner? UpWise.

United States Census Bureau (2023) QuickFacts San Diego city, California.

Yahoo! Finance (2023) Why AdultFriendFinder leads the AI wave in adult dating sites.  

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 Heart Insider, 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.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.