There are specific issues in looking for a relationship once you are no longer a young man or woman. Users of general-purpose dating apps in this age group complain that the algorithms start discriminating against them, and they get fewer potential matches their own age. This is particularly unpleasant for women to experience because it reinforces the dreary social narrative that men only like younger women. Youth tends to be viewed as a depreciating asset when it comes to dating, and many women in their 40s are worried about not having found the right person, some even reaching the point of settling for the wrong one.
Not being young is actually an asset in dating. People are less experienced in their twenties and can behave unwisely. Many women aren’t aware of their own needs in a romantic partnership. They become more mature, aware, and discerning with age, and this naturally results in meeting promising partners more rarely. Age is not the direct cause of this. Exercising choices in more informed ways is always a positive thing.
Finding desired relationships on dating apps
Around 40% of couples meet on dating apps, the largest share of all possible ways. However, they take more effort for older users. People in their 40s can be less patient and busier than younger people. They are less inclined to make time for interactions with strangers, which can be meaningless. This is not an issue with luxury dating apps, which match people of similar social and financial status and with similar goals and interests more effectively. These platforms offer lots of relationship niche options, such as sugar dating after 40, as part of a customized approach with far better prospects than general-purpose dating apps.
Seeking out unconventional relationships
Another option is an age-gap relationship: just because you’re over 40 doesn’t mean your partner has to be. According to a recent survey, most Americans accept large age gaps in romantic relationships, with 71% believing it’s acceptable for a man to date a younger woman and 60% approving of women dating younger men. Unmarried people aged 35 and older are more likely to date someone a decade younger than those under 35. What’s more, older Americans tend to be more accepting of such age gaps, with three-quarters of those over 35 approving of big differences in age.
Embracing the dating trends of 2025
Regardless of age, users should embrace the dating trends of 2025, such as “loud looking.” In 2024, phrases like “Looking for…” were very popular. Situationships are being replaced by more meaningful connections where transparency and trust are key. Around 20% of single Tinder users used the app’s Year in Swipe Vision Board to focus on shared values, trust, and physical attraction when looking for a relationship.
When you feel more balanced, you can accept that you might meet someone in one or two years, and going with the wrong person now may lead you to miss the right one later—singles over 40 need to contradict the gamified form of modern dating.
FAQ
Is 40 too late to find a relationship?
No, many people in this age group tend to be more secure in their personal lives and more established in their careers, leading potential partners to perceive them as a safe haven and a source of stability.
How do singles over 40 meet?
You could ask friends if they know anyone who might be a good fit. Additionally, many online dating sites offer numerous ways of matching with other singles over 40.
What is the 37% dating rule?
If you want to marry the right person, you must date 37% of the candidates without commitment. After collecting that information and experience, you can choose whoever seems good enough.