Looking for a serious relationship in 2025? Here’s a full guide to the best dating apps designed for real love, not just casual hookups.
Swiping endlessly but still not finding real love?
If you're tired of casual hookups and want something serious, you need a dating app that's actually built for real connections — not just flings.
Here’s the full breakdown of the best dating apps for serious relationships in 2024 — and how to pick the right one for you.
1. eHarmony
Best for: Marriage-minded singles
eHarmony is the classic choice if you’re serious about commitment.
- In-depth personality matching system
- Long sign-up process (but that’s the point)
- 60% of matches result in marriage (according to internal stats)
Why it works: It’s not designed for quick dates — it’s built for real compatibility.
2. Match.com
Best for: Professionals looking for long-term relationships
Match.com has been around forever for a reason.
- Detailed profiles and serious users
- Strong focus on relationship goals
- Advanced filters (faith, family plans, education, etc.)
Tip: Match often runs free trial promos — keep an eye out!
3. Hinge
Best for: Millennials serious about love
Hinge’s tagline says it all: “Designed to be deleted.”
- Conversation starters built into profiles
- Focus on real dating, not endless swiping
- Profiles highlight values, humor, and lifestyle
Why people love it: It feels less like a hookup app and more like a matchmaking tool.
4. Bumble
Best for: Empowered women looking for something real
Bumble lets women make the first move — but it’s more than just that.
- Serious relationship filters
- Better quality matches compared to pure hookup apps
- Gives women more control over pace and conversation
Fact: Bumble has a strong reputation for fostering long-term relationships.
5. Coffee Meets Bagel
Best for: People who want quality over quantity
Instead of endless swiping, CMB sends curated matches ("bagels") daily.
- Limited matches each day (forces intentional dating)
- Focus on meaningful conversations
- High success rate for serious connections
Why it stands out: It feels more like matchmaking, less like gaming.
6. Elite Singles
Best for: Career-driven singles
Targeted toward educated professionals seeking serious relationships.
- 85% of users have a university degree
- Highly curated matches
- Higher age range (mostly 30+)
Best for: People tired of immature dating drama.
Honorable Mention: Facebook Dating
Best for: People who prefer familiar setups
Facebook Dating uses your existing Facebook info to match you based on interests, mutual friends, and events.
Bonus: It's free — no premium upgrades needed to match and chat.
Key Features to Look For in a Serious Dating App
- Detailed Profiles: More info = better matches
- Strong Privacy Settings: Control who can see you
- Compatibility Matching: Not just looks, but values and lifestyle too
- Real User Intent: Apps known for serious users filter out time-wasters
Red Flags: Dating Apps to Avoid for Serious Relationships
- Tinder (mostly casual, even today)
- Pure (designed for hookups only)
- Wild (also hookup focused)
Tip: If an app markets itself with "fun, spontaneous connections," it’s probably not geared for marriage seekers.
FAQs About Serious Dating Apps
Q: Should I pay for a dating app?
Yes — paid plans usually give you better filters, more visibility, and access to people who are serious too.
Q: Which dating app leads to the most marriages?
eHarmony and Match.com consistently top the charts for marriage success rates.
Q: Is it better to use more than one app?
Yes. Trying 2–3 serious apps at once (like Hinge + Bumble) can widen your chances without wasting your energy.
Final Thoughts: Which Dating App Is Best for Serious Relationships?
If you want the fastest serious results: Start with Hinge and eHarmony.
If you want to meet educated professionals: Try Elite Singles or Match.com.
If you’re nervous about paid apps: Test Bumble or Facebook Dating first (both have free options).
Dating seriously in 2024 is about being smart — not just swiping harder.
Pick the app that matches your values, not just your vibe.
Also read: Is Aisle a Better Dating App for Serious Relationships?