Too many choices, too many deal-breakers? Singaporeans say dating apps are making love harder

Singaporeans are expressing concerns that dating apps and social media are making it increasingly difficult to find a romantic partner. One Reddit user observed what he believes is a mismatch in expectations between men and women. Women reportedly have lowered their expectations, seeking men who are respectful, emotionally mature, hygienic, communicative and have direction in life.

Meanwhile, men claim women expect them to have a perfect combination of attractiveness, confidence, personality, financial stability, social skills, career, good dating plans, and the initiative to make the first move. The user noted that both groups seem convinced the other has it easier. Data from the Department of Statistics' General Household Survey 2025 indicates the dating scene in Singapore may be getting more complicated, with more young adults remaining single compared to five years ago.

Among female residents aged 25 to 29, single rates rose from 69% in 2020 to 73.4% in 2025. Among men aged 25 to 29, single rates climbed from 81.6% to 85.9% over the same period. Some locals attribute the situation to dating app culture, suggesting that the abundance of matches can lead to superficial judgments and a focus on finding faults rather than genuine connections.

Others point to the influence of online dramas that shape unrealistic expectations of the ideal partner. Despite these concerns, relationship experts warn against the "carousel effect," where people endlessly swipe and chat with multiple matches without committing to any one person. Relationship coach Anisa Hassan advises singles to take time to understand their true desires and not spread themselves too thin across platforms.