Few things can make you question your faith in love like a breakup — especially when you’ve separated from someone you once thought you’d spend forever with. The truth, though, is that you will move on, and when you’re ready, you may just find that you want to include another person in your new life. Jumping back into the dating game can seem overwhelming (especially if it’s been years since you’ve been a part of it), but dating apps are making it easier than ever to find a date online in your area with someone who may be perfect for you!
There aren’t many dating apps that are solely dedicated to playing matchmaker for divorcees. However, many of the most popular online dating apps have helped people find love again after a divorce, no matter their age, interests, or family size. Whether you’re looking for an app for a serious relationship or a dating site for meaningless hookups, here are the most popular recommendations from your fellow divorcees for finding new romance when you’re ready for a fresh start.
DivorcedPeopleMeet
Price: Free for basic features; premium subscriptions start at $6.49 per month
You may feel more comfortable re-entering the dating scene knowing you’re in the company of other survivors of divorce. That’s the founding principle behind DivorcedPeopleMeet, an online dating site devoted to helping new singles ease back into dating. Its setup is similar to Facebook, where users can browse profiles, “like” photos, and send private messages and “flirts” to anyone who catches their eye.
DatingForParents
Price: Free for basic features; premium subscriptions start at $9.99 per month
If you’re flying solo as a parent and looking for some support, DatingForParents wants to pair you with your perfect partner. While its membership is open to all single parents, not just those who have gone through a divorce, the site promises that it’s full of compassionate members looking for meaningful connections with folks who embrace the idea of a blended family.
FirstMet
Price: Free for basic features; premium subscriptions start at $12.50 per month
While FirstMet doesn’t limit its membership to divorcees, it’s become increasingly popular with this group thanks to its unique approach to online dating. It encourages users to rely on their pals to connect them with mutual friends, “bringing the offline dating experience … online,” according to the online dating company’s Facebook page. It’s a great way to wade back into the dating pool for anyone feeling a little gun shy post-divorce.
EliteSingles
Price: Free for basic features; premium subscriptions start at $17.95 per month
EliteSingles tops just about every best-of apps list, because it’s one of a handful of online dating apps that actually work. It uses a matchmaking algorithm to help users find love, and it’s especially appealing to those looking for someone with a college education who shares their passions. While it offers premium features for a price, its free membership provides ample perks that a lot of other sites don’t, including unlimited communication with your crushes.
Match
Price: Free for basic features; premium subscriptions start at $17.99 per month
Match is another constant contender on lists of the most popular dating apps, because it has a huge user base (nearly 40 million!) and has helped people find love for more than 20 years. It also allows you to go into very specific detail about what you’re looking for in a partner, so you’ve got great odds of finding a special someone for this new chapter in your life.
Try Match.comeHarmony
Price: Free for basic features; premium subscriptions start at $19.95 per month
Even those who have never used an online dating app are probably familiar with eHarmony. It boasts a high success rate for helping its members find long-term love thanks to its highly-scientific (and highly-secretive!) matchmaking formula. Although it’s one of the priciest options, it has a great reputation. It’s worth checking out if you’re looking for a serious relationship.
Try eHarmony!OkCupid
Price: Free for basic features; premium subscriptions start at $9.95 per month
OkCupid is one of the most highly-customizable dating site options, allowing you to add nitty-gritty details in both your profile and searches. You’re able to specify exactly the type of person you’re looking for as well as the type of relationship you want. If you’re certain about what you’re after, this site is worth trying — and it’s got rave user reviews to back it up!
Plenty of Fish
Price: Free for basic features; premium subscriptions start at $6.78 per month
Another member of the most popular dating sites, Plenty of Fish has a giant user base of people looking for the real deal and those in search of some casual fun. It’s a reliable and budget-friendly option for those who are interested in meeting new people who share their hobbies, but aren’t sure how serious they’re ready to get with a romantic partner.
Taking a leap of faith and searching for a new relationship in your post-divorce life takes courage. It’s a big transition, and it’s up to you when you’re ready to take the plunge. Online dating apps are a great way to get back in the game and find someone who will make your fresh start an even more exciting chapter of your new beginning.