Best Dating App Development Model for Startups 2025

In the rapidly changing digital age, people who love to date turn to online dating sites to connect with potential partners. Many reasons can be cited for this, including the ease of accessing the platform anytime from anywhere and the chance to connect with an array of potential partners.

The growing popularity of the dating industry with apps such as Bumble has created an opportunity for custom dating app development. One of the people’s most frequently asked concerns is what it costs to build an app similar to Bumble.

According to Statista, the revenue of the online dating market is expected to reach US$3.12bn by 2024. It is predicted to show an annual increase of 3.28 percent, bringing the market total to $3.39 billion in 2027.

Market Statistics of Dating Applications

Belo is one of the few figures that shows the value of creating a dating mobile application. If you’re still unconvinced, consider a few additional facts to help you understand how far we’ve come in the online dating sector.

  • 45% of people polled said the best way to meet people was on dating apps online, at festivals or concerts, or through friends.
  • The world’s online dating market was estimated at $9.65 in 2022. It’s expected to grow by a CAGR of 7.4% between 2023 and 2030.
  • The 2025 penetration rate is expected to be 17.9%, and it is projected to increase by 2028 and reach 19.0%.
  • Regarding revenue generation, the market is split into subscription and advertising, and the latter surpassed the highest revenue share at 63% and higher in 2022.
  • When examining the “success” of online dating, those under 30 partnered or LGB adults stand out compared to other categories.
  • Based on the prevalent gender, 51% of lesbians or bisexual (LGB) adults are more likely to use dating apps.
  • About 46% of people who have partners are now married, while 36% of those who are widowed, divorced, separated, or divorced are more likely to have attempted online dating than married adults.
  • In 2022, the 18-to-25-year-old age group was deemed responsible for a massive revenue share of around 36%, followed by the 26-to-34 age group.

The numbers show that the market for online dating is functioning well and will continue to do as it is in the future, which makes it a good choice for people who want to leverage the benefits of developing dating applications.

Reasons Behind Increased Popularity of Custom Dating Applications

The dating world has transformed since the introduction of dating applications that facilitate users in finding potential partners and prevent users from attempting to go on limiting dates or meeting people in person.

The growing use of smartphones has changed how people interact and find love.

Let’s look deeper and discover some of the motives behind the success and popularity of apps for dating:

Pool of Potential Matches

Because dating apps extend beyond geographic boundaries, they allow users from all across the globe to connect. This increases the number of possible matches, giving users more options than what they would meet through traditional dating.

Eliminates Social Anxiety

Many people feel awkward when meeting someone new and starting an exchange. However, through online dating apps, you can connect with individuals online and interact in conversation without feeling the hassle of meeting in person.

Time-Saving

Modern consumers usually enjoy courtship ceremonies that take just a few minutes. The use of dating apps improves the communication process and allows users to evaluate compatibility in a short time.

Matching Algorithms

Incorporating sophisticated algorithms into fintech applications helps connect users by utilizing compatibility criteria like values, interests, and lifestyle choices.

Customizable Experience

Dating apps allow users to modify their experience according to their preferences using filters and choosing an individual based on their particular preferences.

Top Dating App Development Models for Start-Ups in 2025

Presently, among the top dating apps’ business models are somewhat niche-based apps that are targeted at certain groups like people of high status, LGBTQ individuals, or religious communities. Traditional dating apps are designed to cater to most online dating users, and geolocation-based matchmaking apps provide top-quality features specifically tailored to specific locations. The shift towards top-quality user experience can be seen in these models, which focus on the safety and authenticity of these apps.

Dating App Based on Horoscope Matching

There are many people, particularly in Asian nations, who adhere to Horoscopes. They look at horoscopes before any rituals or ceremonies believed to impact the future positively. They also consider the bride and groom’s horoscopes before arranging the weddings.

What about creating an app for dating that allows users to connect with horoscopes, zodiac sign numbers, or other strange connections? It could appeal to a particular segment of the population. There isn’t a dating app specifically designed for those who believe in the horoscope. It could be a game-changer for you.

  • Horoscope report generator
  • Matchmaking is based on zodiac signs
  • Search filtering Based on the horoscopes
  • Push notifications
  • Local listings
  • A method that is based on horoscope match
  • Chat in-app

Dating Apps for Similar Professions

You’ve probably had the experience of seeing doctors seeking potential partners for dating. This is the case for nearly all professionals. Professionals who are part of the same field could make things easier. For instance, partners from the same profession are aware of the pressures they face at work and the schedules and risks that professionals face.

Are you considering creating a dating app that allows users to meet a partner in the same field? The users will be able to meet potential partners within their respective fields. This type of dating will have a higher chance of turning into a lasting relationship.

  • Profile verification
  • In-app chat
  • Advanced search for a career
  • Questionnaire-based profile creation
  • Integrations of social media
  • Matching algorithm

Dating App Based on Hobbies and Passion

Did you know that 64 percent of married Americans believe that getting married to people with similar interests and passions can result in happy relationships?

Gen Z loves to date individuals with similar interests. This is why OkCupid asks several questions when creating profiles. Why not create an interest-based dating application that allows users to find companions with the same hobbies and preferences?

  • A section specifically for hobbies
  • A questionnaire is required at the time of registration for a profile
  • A sophisticated algorithm that displays profiles with hobbies that are similar to yours.
    Push notifications
  • Interest-based profiles will be first shown

Dating App with Gamification

Sometimes, the online dating world can be challenging and monotonous. However, one option is to include simple but engaging games in your application to keep your customers entertained.

In the meantime, while waiting for responses, they can use the app to play games and entertain themselves. You can also permit users to engage in games with fellow online community members and add reward points, badges, or online coupons to motivate them to play.

  • App gamification
  • Online members can be a part of games.
  • Coupons, badges, or other rewards for gamers.
  • Video and audio calls

Video-Dating App

While this is one of the most frequently used features on Instagram and other dating apps, there’s an app specifically designed to facilitate video-based dating. You can create an app for dating that permits users to meet potential partners through video.

  • Video calling facility
  • Advanced search filters based on gender, age, city, and more.
  • In-app chat
  • Push notifications
  • Different video filters to engage conversations

Dating App for Seniors

Which app can seniors turn to find an opportunity to meet? There aren’t any options like this available. They could end up going to traditional dating sites and being disappointed. However, creating an app to meet seniors that cater to their preferences could be a great business idea.

Create an application that allows older people to take a break from their solitary lives. The design should be simple, neat, and visually appealing to make it user-friendly, considering that they might require more technological expertise.

  • Chat in-app
  • Push notifications
  • Advanced search filters
  • Audio/Video calls
  • Navigation that is easy to use

Dating App for the LGBTQ Community

While many dating apps exist that let LGBTQ people meet partners, creating an app specifically for LGBTQ individuals could be ideal. The acceptance of the right of members to be part of the LGBTQ community is growing worldwide. Even LGBTQ members are breaking from their cloaks, which is an encouraging sign.

It is possible to create a specific app that allows members of the LGBTQ community to locate friends. They can look for similar people within their local area and then talk to them about how they can explore further.

  • Advanced search for people who are not binary
  • Push notifications
  • Chatting in-app
  • Geolocation-based search filters
  • audio/video calls

Travel-Companion-Based Dating App

Another idea for dating app entrepreneurs is to develop an app that allows users to connect with their traveling friends. However, developing an app could be difficult since you must confirm and verify individuals’ identities and criminal histories to create a safe and secure environment.

  • A long and rigorous check of the profile
  • Travel-companion-based search filter
  • Advanced travel plans are scheduled within the app
  • Audio-video calls facility
  • Chat in-app

Dating App for Local Connections

Are you trying to find connections within your town or city? Making a separate application for your city or town is a good idea. In this app, users must input the city’s name, and then they can locate all the local profiles they can connect with. While most dating apps have geolocation-based search options, exploring them to launch the first local dating app for your users is possible.

  • Dating Preference Filters
  • The search engine for city searches will show cities as well as regions
  • Profile verification
  • Meet-ups and events are on the agenda in the city

Dating App for Divorced People

Last, but not least, it is possible to create a dating application for people who have been divorced and want to begin the romance journey. But you must determine first if the person has divorced. This will require special considerations in the registration process.

  • Advanced search filters
  • Push notifications
  • Chat in-app and audio/video calling
  • Matches based on interests and hobbies

Top 10 Dating Applications in the Market

Dating apps are a popular method for individuals to meet and communicate by offering a range of options that can be adapted to different tastes. If you’re searching for apps similar to Tinder or other dating apps, it’s useful to understand which are leading in the market and what makes them stand out. This is a brief look at the top 10 most popular dating apps you need to know about.

1. Tinder

Tinder’s most famous feature is its simple swiping system, which allows people to evaluate others based on appearance. The application allows users to swipe left to show likes and left to show dislikes. This can be used not just for casual dating but also to establish deep relationships among friends. If you plan to develop applications similar to Tinder, you must first know what the Tinder app can offer and how it’s gaining a foothold in the market.

  • Subscription: $24.99 for Tinder+, $39.99 for Tinder Gold, $49.99 for Tinder Platinum
  • Free version available
  • Special Features: Super Likes, Boost, Incognito Mode
  • Android Rating – 4.1/5
  • iOS Rating – 4.1/5

2. Hinge

Hinge is designed to assist users in making connections and establishing deeper connections by providing prompts and answers when they sign up for an account. Tinder uses an algorithm to connect users, proving they have similar desires and interests.

  • Subscription: $14.99 for Hinge+, $24.99 for HingeX
  • Free version available
  • App available: iOS and Android
  • Features: Superboost, Boost (24 hours), and Superlikes/Roses
  • Android Rating: 4.1
  • iOS Rating: 4.4

3. Happn

Happen allows users to interact with people they’ve likely met daily. It uses location information to show profiles of other users with whom the user is physically close.

Hence, it was designed to provide instantaneity and proximity.

  • Subscription: $16.99/month
  • Features: “Hellos,” Crush, SuperCrush, personalized message sending facility, and much more.
  • Android Rating – 3.7
  • iOS Rating – 4.3

4. BLK

BLK is targeted primarily at those of African descent. It aims to give users a platform to search for dates. Its goal is to promote Black people’s distinctive heritage and to build relationships with its members. If you plan to target this market, you could also develop a dating application similar to BLK.

  • Subscription: $29.99 for Elite and $14.99 for Premium
  • Free version available
  • Features: BLK Community, Rewinds gems, Gems, and Gem message boosts
  • iOS Rating: 4.6
  • Android Rating: 3.5

5. Karma

Karma astrology dating app blends an understanding of the astrological sciences and modern matchmaking technology, providing users with customized connections based on their zodiac signs and the compatibility of their astrological signs. With advanced features, such as detailed Horoscopes and compatibility analyses, the app provides a unique method of finding the love of your life. As astrology dating app development is a unique and new concept, you can reach a large audience by developing an app like Karma.

  • Subscription: $9.99 for Premium, $19.99 for VIP
  • Free version available
  • App available: iOS and Android
  • Features: Astrology-based matchmaking, daily horoscope updates, compatibility analysis, chat functionality, personality quizzes, and instant messaging
  • Android Rating: 4.2
  • iOS Rating: 4.5

6. Bumble

Bumble allows women to take the lead in making the first move. Women and men can contribute equally, and in heterosexual match-making, women are the only ones who have the right to initiate a conversation with a man, but the male can’t do it by himself.

Additionally, there are two features called BFF and Bizz options, which can be utilized to meet new people and for business.

  • Subscription: $9.99 for Boost, $17.99 for Premium, $29.99 for Premium+
  • Free version available
  • Features: SuperSwipe as well as Spotlight
  • BBB Rating: Trustpilot score: 1.3 out of 5

7. Coffee Meets Bagel

The features included in Coffee Meets Bagel include sending only a small number of profiles specially chosen from the vast user base. Matches are mailed to the user based on the details provided on their profile and the topics they are most interested in.

  • Subscription: $14.99 for Mini, $34.99 for Premium
  • Free version available
  • Features: Boost, Rewinds, Incognito Mode Activity Reports
  • iOS rating: 4/5/5
  • Android Rating: 3.2/5

8. Facebook Dating

It’s an integrated platform linked to Facebook and has an account of friends. It also has its Secret Crush feature, whereby users declare themselves Facebook friends. It is designed to help users find a real connection.

  • Free to use
  • App accessibility: Via the Facebook app, accessible on iOS as well as Android
  • Features: Crush and Match Anywhere! Crush and match Anywhere
  • iOS Rating: NA
  • Android Rating: NA

9. Plenty of Fish

POF is a database with many users and many options, including personality tests and communication options. It is renowned for its numerous free options and was created for those seeking various relationships.

  • Subscription: $119.99 for POF Premium
  • Free version available
  • Features: Boost (show up first among others) and Likeplus (stand out to a user that is not the like)
  • iOS Rating: 4.3
  • Android Rating: 2.7

10. Feels

Feels is a dating app based on personality. It is specifically designed for those who are looking for a connection through emotion. It lets users be themselves and engage by exchanging messages rather than simply swiping on appearances.

  • Subscription: $9.99 for Fastpass and $24.99 for Infinity
  • Free version available
  • App accessibility: iOS and Android
  • Features: SuperFeels, Boost, and (makes your profile an outstanding one for 2 hours)
  • Android rating: 4.4
  • iOS rating: 4.3

What Makes a Dating App Successful?

As people are shifting their approach to dating to provide a more seamless experience, the development of dating apps should be influenced by monitoring user feedback on some of the top dating applications. There are likely to be gaps in what these dating apps offer and what the users want, and these gaps offer opportunities for dating apps to develop to meet the needs of users for dating applications in the near future.

Here are the top features that every developer of dating apps must take into consideration at the beginning of their venture:

Market and Competitor Research

When you are developing an app to connect people, it’s crucial to study the market and your competition in the present landscape. Users can be extremely receptive to dating apps that are not well thought-out or do not have the features that they require.

Suppose you study your competitors to find an unmet user need and create a dating app or feature that meets this specific demand. Additionally, you can use the top features from the most well-known apps and build on them to offer the best user experience.

Another way market research can help is by determining whether you should target an entire audience or a specific section of the population, such as LGBT people or pet owners who are foodies. The list could go on.

Monetization Strategies

Not only do you need to create a distinctive primary value proposition that meets the requirements of your customer base, but you must also ensure that the app you use generates money and is profitable for a long time to come.

We’ve provided a variety of ways to earn money from an app for dating, such as these strategies:

  • Paid and affiliate marketing, as well as paid advertisements
  • Subscription plans
  • In-app purchases
  • Premium feature upgrades

You could also consider trying out creative strategies like offerwalls, which offer users free credits or reward points in exchange for performing tasks. Remember that you can use various methods at once, provided your users communicate with one another, and your application is functional.

User Needs and Challenges

Video chats are increasing dramatically. “Nearly half (48%) of Gen Z users said they plan to have more video chats and conversations with matches before agreeing to meet them IRL.” (Vice Media Group 2021).

It’s crucial to remember that even though the methods differ, the final product users seek has stayed the same. They’re still trying to find an ideal partner for an ongoing or casual relationship. This is always the situation.

Unique Value Proposition

The downside is that it takes much work to develop a dating app that is popular enough to make it. But here’s the great news — the amazing quality of the market is so complex that it’s unnecessary to come up with the next Tinder to build an app that is successful in the dating field.

Three questions you should be asking before beginning your development plan:

  1. What user behavior will you be evaluating to measure your performance?
  2. Do you think your dating app will provide an innovative user experience that generates long-lasting network effects, essential for its success?
  3. Does your dating app have to be restricted to a particular user segment or area?

These questions can help you identify the best features, appropriate metrics, and the right target users for your dating application.

Must-Have Features for Dating Applications

To create matchmaking apps that has traction and is successful, you must include features that do more than create a sense of engagement among users but also keep them engaged with the site. Here are some important features to incorporate into your app.

Matching Algorithms

An algorithm must match users based on their app usage data, preferences, and interests for a dating app to function.

  • Matching based on location using GPS technology
  • Mathematical-based matches are built on the user’s responses to questions regarding preferences, interests, and political opinions.
  • A matching algorithm based on behavior collects information on how users interact with the application.
  • Machine learning algorithms “learn” what a user wants based on the results of matches, improving the algorithm’s precision and match quality.

Voice and Video Calling

The rise in video calls is just one of numerous trends that show people want to feel at ease and connected before meeting one another. Face-to-face cues, tone of voice, and other forms of nonverbal communication enhance conversations, allowing users to connect more frequently than by SMS or text.

Gamification

Each dating app has user profiles, but this does not mean it must use the same cookie-cutter design as other applications. You can be more innovative by integrating rich media into your user profiles and even adding a gamification layer that encourages users to behave with the promise of advantages.

It’s not that we shouldn’t gamify our human interactions, but we certainly should not. However, we do wish to make the user profile noticeable, encourage an initial conversation, and offer incentives in a method that’s strategically designed to ensure that users stay. The idea behind the game-based nature of the application is to create an environment that rewards users and gives them a sense of satisfaction when they complete the primary actions.

Chat and Messaging

It is possible to consider chat messaging to be one of the “engines” of any dating application. While it’s a crucial requirement, there’s a problem in keeping people on the site rather than exchanging numbers and then taking their conversations off of the platform. This is where chat with full-featured features and in-app messaging emerges. To complement SMS messaging, video calling, and voice notes can be added to your dating application.

Push Notifications

Make sure to incorporate push notification capabilities in your app so that you can remind users whenever a match sends them an email.

Your app users are notified of important events, such as whether they are interested in their profile, whether their profile was matched to another, or when someone has sent them an email.

How Much Will It Cost to Develop a Dating App?

The cost of developing a dating app is contingent on a variety of variables, such as

  • Do you wish to include basic or advanced capabilities in your application?
  • The tech stack is essential to create an application
  • The location of the agency for app development
  • The time spent creating the application

To give you an approximate estimation, the costs of creating a basic dating site can range from $20,000 to $65,000.

If you want to purchase an app with too many intricate functions and features, it’ll start at $60,000 and then increase to $1,00,000.

Monetization Models for Dating Applications

Dating apps, just like other apps, are occasionally free. They must make profits somehow. Once the app has been created, what is the profit-making method? Dating apps use several major strategies. These comprise:

Freemium

Freemium is a well-known approach for dating apps. People who are interested in the features that the app offers can download and utilize it for free. However, they won’t have access to additional features that enhance the application’s functionality beyond the fundamental premise behind its marketing.

To access the app, users pay In-app purchases or subscription premiums, which can be tiered depending on the number of features they want or, in most cases, the length of their subscription.

A few good examples include Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and Badoo, which provide greater control, access to matches, and more visibility when you sign up for an annual subscription.

The method relies on turning a massive user base into customers willing to invest money in a more enjoyable user experience on dating sites.

Advertising

Advertising is a standard method used by dating apps. It includes selling advertising space to third-party businesses and brands who wish to connect with the app’s user base. Tinder, Badoo, and Plenty of Fish use this method to make money by displaying advertisements to users using the unpaid version.

Attracting an extensive and active user base will further support the strategy, resulting in many views and clicks for advertisers.

Marketing through Affiliates

This unique but potentially lucrative monetization method requires working with other companies or platforms that offer additional products or services that complement the app’s users.

A good illustration is Tantan, the most popular dating application in China. It utilizes the model to make money by directing its customers to e-commerce platforms. This strategy is based on the creation of value-added partnerships that profit the app and its affiliates.

Niche marketing

Niche marketing is a relatively new but promising method focusing on a particular market segment with distinct desires or needs.

The Key Takeaway

You might be surprised to learn that people between the age of 16 and 65 actively use dating apps. Satisfying such a massive audience with outstanding dating apps isn’t easy. The development and maintenance of the app’s success require a comprehensive approach that includes intelligent design, modern technology, and continual advancement.

The world market for dating apps is growing rapidly. It’s the ideal moment to capitalize on the opportunity. You need a distinctive dating app concept to attract your market. We’ve discussed several dating app ideas including LGBTQ+ dating app development, horoscope-based dating apps, travel companion dating apps, etc. to help you discover your way to success. Be aware of your intended customers and competitors and the legal and security requirements before you begin developing a dating app.

Making an online dating application similar to Tinder geared towards the iOS and Android platforms is extremely exciting in today’s era. A trustworthy app with a user-friendly interface and an appropriate analysis of the monetization model can help the app reach millions of users and earn large revenues.

By embracing technology and understanding your users’ needs and wants, you can create an innovative platform that connects users while generating the necessary revenues.