Despite the abundance of dating sites in Maine, there’s still plenty of frustration when it comes to finding women. From too many to choose from, lack of a user base, or just apps that are a bad fit for the state, the struggle to find an app that makes dating simple can be too much.
In the past, simply living in Maine's best cities - like Portland, Old Orchard Beach, and Bangor - nearly guaranteed you’d cross paths with a lovely lady sooner or later. Or, maybe you’re studying at the University of Maine Orono or Bowdoin College and knew that you’d meet a like-minded woman between classes.
Unfortunately, the ease of in-person dating is behind us due to the pandemic and other factors, but there’s hope plenty of hope if you use the top Maine dating sites we’ve tried, tested, and recommend.
Before you read further, let us give you a quick summary of the Maine dating apps that have consistently worked for us:
| Site | Our Experience | Our Rating | Free Trial Link |
|---|---|---|---|
Best For Relationships  | Experience Highlights
| 9 | Try eHarmony |
Best For Casual Fun  | Experience Highlights
| 9 | Try AFF For Free |
Great If You're Handsome  | Tinder Highlights
| 8 | Try Tinder |
There are tons of singles using dating sites in Maine
At first glance, Maine might strike you as the northern retirement community (the southern one being Florida). True enough, lots of older people choose to live in Maine because it's a relatively safe and quiet state. But that doesn't mean living in Maine dooms you to being single forever!
With 31.19% of the adult population being single, you have plenty of single people to meet here! There are also more women than men, so if you're looking to date a woman or get into something short, fun, and casual, you shouldn't have any problems meeting them in Maine. In fact, if you use one of the dating apps and sites below, you could be looking at more dates than you know what to do with!
The 5 Best Dating Sites in Maine Right Now
We chose the best dating apps and sites in Maine based on popularity, how easy it is to find a date on each option, and how well its paid and free features work. With these criteria in mind, the following section will help you find the best dating site recommendations for Maine. Best of luck!
#1 - eHarmony (Android, iOS) is one of the best dating sites in Maine for finding relationships
Get access to a 70% chance of getting married in one year with eHarmony, the best choice for dating sites in Maine for long-term dating.
Unlike other dating sites in Maine, eHarmony starts the process with an in-depth and detailed questionnaire, plus there’s a requirement for a paid membership to engage with the app’s user base. If you’re on the fence about paying for a membership, understand that it’s like a “cover fee” that keeps out the riff-raff.
Pros of eHarmony:
- Best success rate for long-term relationships and even marriages
- Matches are actually compatible, not simply a random sampling of women
- Designed for serious users
Cons of eHarmony:
- Requires a large time investment
- Users are not allowed to search for matches on their own
- Not popular with younger demographics
#2 - Plenty of Fish (Android, iOS) is a great way for singles to chat live
One of the reasons why Plenty of Fish (PoF) is a great dating app is its Live feature. Chat instantly with Maine women on a webcam to start a conversation. Because this is a rare feature in Maine dating sites, those who are ready to engage are certain to succeed on PoF.
Also, Pof is free to use, but it does have a paid membership called “Upgraded Profiles”. For a fee the app lets you add up to 16 pictures, a boost in search rankings, and a feature that lets you see who browsed your profile, plus a lot more.
Why Plenty of Fish is a great dating app in Maine:
- Less competition than other apps
- Live feature helps avoid endless texting
- Paid membership features gives you more functionality than other dating apps
What could be improved on Plenty of Fish?
- May not have as many top-tier profiles and attractive women as other popular dating apps
- Interface feels a bit overcrowded
#3 - AFF is the best dating site in Maine to find a fun rendezvous (try it free here)
AFF is the best dating app for Maine men that want to find some fun in the bedroom. And because everyone on AFF is looking for the same thing, you never have to worry about things getting awkward.
With millions of users (60+ million), finding someone that has the same preference for fun as you do won’t be a problem. It also has a convenient search feature that further refines your search criteria (age, location, preferences, and more). AFF offers a free trial, but most men that find success on AFF shell out the cash to really jumpstart their dating life.
Why AFF is the right choice for getting down in Maine:
- Huge active user base
- Fewer people looking for an ego boost and attention than other apps
- Well-designed UX/UI interface
- Webcam options for those that want to set expectations before meeting up in-person
What could be better on AFF:
- Most users only access AFF via the web app
- AFF can feel like a “meat market” if you’re looking for vanilla fun
#4 - Coffee Meets Bagel (iOS, Android) is the top choice for many singles in the city
Maine’s reputation as Vactionland is well-deserved, even among those who call Maine home. It’s one of the reasons why the state attracts professionals. If that is your target demographic then using CMB is the right call.
Coffee Meets Bagel (CMB) is designed to be different than other dating apps you’ll find today, as it features a Bumble-like experience, daily match updates around 12 noon, and enough discoverability features to find the match near you. Paid memberships put even more features at your disposal, giving users even more parameters to meet the ambitious woman of their dreams.
What makes Coffee Meets Bagel one of the best serious dating sites in Maine:
- Upscale user base
- Much less competition than other Maine dating sites
- Paid features give you more specific search options for discoverability
What’s lacking on Coffee Meets Bagel?
- There are fewer women on the platform than on other apps
- The demographic of the app tends to fall in the 25 – 45+ age range
- The free trial only lasts a few days before limiting your chance to send Likes to profiles
#5 - Tinder (iOS, Android) is still one of the most popular dating apps out there
Tinder may be most people’s first foray into online dating, whether in Maine or any other state. It’s free and full of users, all of whom are looking for either a quick hookup or a more steady relationship.
While Tinder has lots of users even in smaller cities, it does tend to be super fast-paced. People swipe on who they’re attracted to at first glance. This could be a good thing if you’re attractive or if you have great photos. But if you’re more on the average side or if it’s your personality that really shines, you might not get as many matches.
Either way, Tinder is still worth checking out if you want to use a Maine dating app that has lots of users.
Why Tinder works:
- It’s free with paid upgrades
- Lots of attractive users
- You can change your location ahead of time if you’re traveling
- Easy and fun to use
Where Tinder is lacking:
- Tends to work better for those with good photos
- Some users are only there for attention or validation
The Best Hookup Sites in Maine
Of all the best Maine hookup sites, only AFF and Plenty of Fish actually get results:
AFF was designed for discrete fun
Maine is not the biggest state out there. To protect your reputation and privacy, AFF has a webcam feature that enables you to set expectations beforehand without having to deal with scammers, spammers, and tourists.
PoF has a live chat feature
No matter what type of dating you’re into, sooner or later, you’ll want to talk face-to-face before proceeding further. PoF features a Live feature, where you can chat with matches and available women in your area to woo them - without the endless back-and-forth texting that kills attraction.
How to Find Hookups in London, fast, safe, and with low effort
London is huge and busy, which is good news if you want fast results with minimal small talk. The quickest path to hookups in London is to combine high-intent apps with smart timing and clear messaging. Use one or two casual-leaning apps where Londoners are already active in the evening. Set your distance to a tight two to five kilometres so you are only seeing people who can actually meet tonight. In your bio and opening line, be direct but polite. Say you are up for a quick drink and open to chemistry if it is there. That tone reads confident and cuts through the noise.
Timing matters in London. Engagement spikes after 7 pm on weeknights and from late afternoon on Fridays. If you match earlier in the day, propose a simple plan for later. Suggest a public place near a Tube station so logistics are easy. Think hotel lobby bars, busy cocktail spots, or late-open pubs with standing areas. You want venues with movement and a quick exit, not seated three-course commitments.
Pre-screen with two or three messages, then move to a brief call or a quick selfie exchange. This reduces flakes and sets expectations before you leave home. Keep safety first. Share your plans with a friend, meet in a public location, and arrange your own transport both ways. London is contactless-friendly, so keep payments simple and independent. If vibes are not there, end the drink after 30 minutes with a polite wrap. If energy is good, suggest a venue hop nearby. London rewards clarity and speed, so lead the plan, keep logistics tight, and let the city’s density work for you.
Best places for hookups in London by neighbourhood
London’s size can overwhelm, so anchor your search in a few neighbourhoods where energy, foot traffic, and late hours intersect. In Soho, you get dense nightlife, walkable blocks, and easy venue hopping. Start with a drink on a main street, then pivot to a standing-room cocktail bar if chemistry builds. Shoreditch offers creative crowds and busy late nights. Use bars with music but no cover, which keeps the meetup casual and inexpensive. Camden works for live music and younger crowds. Suggest a pre-show drink nearby to test vibes before deciding on a longer night.
Clapham and Brixton are strong for twenty and thirty-somethings who live nearby. Suggest weeknight meetups near the Tube to reduce long commutes. Canary Wharf is good for after-work drinks with professionals. Propose a quick martini in a lobby or riverside spot, then decide together if the night continues. South Bank has easy walking and multiple bars in sight, perfect for a low-pressure first drink with a quick change of scene if needed. For discretion, hotel bars across central London are a strong play. Staff are used to quick meetups, lighting is flattering, and you can exit smoothly without awkward goodbyes at the door.
Keep logistics simple. Pick landmarks near Tube stations like Oxford Circus, Old Street, Camden Town, Brixton, Canary Wharf, or Waterloo. Always offer two nearby options in your message so the other person can choose. London nights can turn fast. If a venue is packed, pivot to a second choice on the same street. For weekend afternoons, try busy food markets or riverside walks, which can convert into an evening plan if chemistry is there. The goal is proximity, options, and movement. That is how you turn a match into a meetup, then into something more.
London hookup etiquette, scripts, safety, and timing
Londoners value directness, manners, and time awareness. Lead with clear intent and polite framing. Here are simple scripts that convert without sounding pushy.
- Opening line after a match: “Hi, nice to meet you. I am near Oxford Circus later. Up for a quick drink and seeing if we click”
- Follow up with two options: “Can do 7 or 8, you pick. There is a lobby bar at the corner, or a small cocktail spot one minute away. What feels better?”
- Confirm and set expectations: “Let us keep it to one drink and see the vibe. If it works, we can continue. If not, no worries.”
- If you want to tonight: “I have an early start tomorrow, so I am free for a short one this evening near Waterloo. Game if you are.”
Safety is non-negotiable. Meet in public, tell a friend, share your live location, and arrange your own transport both ways. Keep your phone charged and your drink in sight. London’s contactless payments and ride-hailing make exits easy. If you decide to continue, be clear and consensual. Ask direct questions, respect a no immediately, and do not escalate without explicit agreement. Polite honesty builds trust and reduces mixed signals.
Timing tips. Weeknights after 7 pm are efficient and less crowded. Friday late afternoon can work for spontaneous drinks that roll into the evening. Sunday's early evening is underrated. Many people prefer low-pressure meetups before the workweek. If plans slip, reschedule quickly. “Can we move to tomorrow at 7 near Shoreditch High Street?” shows you are still interested and keeps the momentum.
The Best Dating Sites in Maine for Serious Relationships
When it comes to dating, BeyondAges recommends eHarmony as the first choice among all other Maine dating sites, with Match as a distant second. Let’s take a look at why eHarmony and Match are the best dating sites/apps in Maine for finding relationships.
eHarmony is the right app for those who know what they want
Maine has a high standard of living, and eHarmony is the choice for individuals who want to meet their future spouses and settle down in Maine’s beautiful scenery. With an algorithm that truly works, getting quality matches with eHarmony is a guarantee.
Match helps you find matches
Match has been around for quite some time, it’s been providing quality matches since 1995. So, you can bank on the fact that Match knows what it's doing.
The Best Free Dating Sites in Maine
At BeyondAges, we like to tell the truth. And the truth is that you get what you pay for when it comes to the best free dating sites in Maine.
While we all love a freebie, paid memberships put more functionality and better odds at your fingertips. Plus, you gain a competitive edge when you pony up the cash, which is usually around $10/month - $20/month - compare that with the same amount you’d pay as a cover fee for a popular club in town.
Besides the apps we’ve recommended in this article so far, the following are also some of the best free Maine dating apps that we recommend:
- OkCupid
- Hinge
- Zoosk
Experiment with a variety of dating apps and you’ll be sure to find the right woman and relationship today!
Dating in Chicago vs Maine — what is different and what actually works
Dating in Chicago feels very different from dating in Maine, mostly because of scale and speed. Chicago’s dense neighborhoods, late hours, and constant events mean there are more chances to meet new people on any given night. That volume can be exciting, but it also creates choice overload and quick decision cycles. Profiles are skimmed, plans are set on short notice, and weekend calendars fill early. If you are used to Maine’s slower pace and deeper community ties, the Chicago rhythm takes a small mindset shift.
The best way to adjust is to narrow your focus. When dating in Chicago, choose one or two neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and stick to venues you can revisit weekly. That consistency lets the apps work in your favor because you can propose clear, repeatable plans near reliable landmarks. Think coffee spots with easy seating, casual wine bars, or lobby bars that allow quick meet and greet energy. On apps, sharpen your bio with specific neighborhood references and time windows. Instead of a generic line, say that you are usually free near West Loop after seven or that you like early Sunday plans in Lincoln Park. That tiny amount of clarity filters your matches toward people who can actually meet you.
Messaging should also match the city’s pace. Open with a direct greeting, offer two time options, and name a simple public venue. If there is interest, move from chat to a brief call or a quick selfie exchange and then lock it in. Keep first meets to one drink or one coffee so both of you can calibrate. The structure is simple. Clear bio, focused area, short planning window, and polite follow-through. That is how to make dating in Chicago feel efficient instead of overwhelming, while still keeping the genuine connection that works so well in Maine.
Best neighborhoods for dating in Chicago and how to use them
When people talk about dating in Chicago, they often mean a few lively pockets where meeting up just works. West Loop delivers packed restaurants, walkable blocks, and plenty of last-minute options. It is perfect for quick after-work plans and a second stop nearby if chemistry is there. River North is dense and central, which helps if you and your match live far apart. Choose places with standing areas so you can keep the energy moving. Lincoln Park and Old Town are great for weekend afternoons that can stretch into the evening, especially if you prefer a low-key first meet. Wicker Park and Logan Square add a creative crowd and late hours for night owls.
Use the neighborhoods to simplify logistics. In your profile, mention where you are most often and your typical time frames. On apps, set a tight distance radius during the hours you plan to go out, then suggest two simple options near a transit line. For example, offer a seven or eight-window at a known spot near the Blue Line in Wicker Park. If the place is crowded, pivot to a second choice on the same block. That keeps momentum without pressure.
Safety and clarity matter. Meet in public, arrange your own transport, and set expectations in the message thread. A one-drink plan is respectful and efficient, and it makes a second venue feel like a small win if things click. Remember that Chicago rewards leaders who are courteous and specific. Share the plan, give a choice, confirm the time, and then show up on time. Over a few weeks, the combination of neighborhood focus and crisp planning will raise your reply rates and turn more matches into real meets.
Quick scripts and timing tips for dating in Chicago
Strong scripts remove friction, which is why they help so much with dating in Chicago. Try an opening line that is polite and concrete. Example, “Nice to meet you. I am near the West Loop this week. Open to a quick drink and seeing if we click.” Follow with two choices, “Seven or eight is best for me. I can do a lobby bar on Madison or a quiet wine spot one block over. What feels better for you?” Then confirm expectations, “Let us keep it to one drink. If energy is good, we can continue. If not, no worries.”
Timing is the second lever. Weeknights after seven are efficient and less crowded. Thursday can be the strongest single night because people are fresh and open to a spontaneous plan. Fridays from late afternoon work if you prefer a quick plan that may roll into the evening. Sundays around five are underrated since many people want a calm first meet before the week starts. If a plan slips, reschedule quickly so interest does not fade. Keep your message short, name the new time, and restate the venue zone.
Polish your profile so scripts land better. Use three to five clear photos with natural light and one full-length. Add one sentence that shows a specific habit, like Saturday runs by the lake or early coffee in Lincoln Park. That detail creates fast talking points and signals you are real. The overall goal is to make it very easy to say yes. Clear intent, two-time options, simple venues, and a respectful one-drink plan. Use this system for a month, and you will feel the city working with you rather than against you.
The Best Dating Sites in Pretoria for Singles Right Now
If you’re based in Pretoria and looking for meaningful connections, you’ll quickly find that not every app works the same way in South Africa. While global apps dominate, some platforms perform better in Pretoria because of its younger student population, business professionals, and a diverse mix of locals and expats. Here are the best dating sites in Pretoria to try:
- Tinder remains popular in Pretoria, especially among students at the University of Pretoria and younger professionals downtown. The fast swipe culture makes it easy to meet people quickly.
- Badoo is another strong player in Pretoria, with plenty of active profiles and localized search features that make it simple to connect with people in your area.
- EliteSingles is ideal if you’re looking for Pretoria professionals. The platform caters to career-focused singles who value compatibility and education.
- TrulyAfrican has a large user base across South Africa, making it easier to meet local singles interested in relationships or casual dating.
- Plenty of Fish (PoF) works well if you prefer free features and the ability to connect with singles beyond just swiping.
Pretoria’s dating scene is competitive, but these apps stand out because they’re actively used within the city. Whether you want casual fun in Hatfield or long-term romance in Brooklyn, these dating sites in Pretoria will help you get started.
Hookup Apps vs. Relationship Apps in Pretoria
When it comes to dating in Pretoria, your choice of app depends on your goals. The city has a thriving nightlife and student energy, but also a professional community that’s more focused on long-term relationships. Understanding which apps are casual versus serious can save you time.
- Best hookup apps in Pretoria: Tinder and Badoo are great if you’re looking for fast, casual fun. Their large, active user bases make them ideal for spontaneous connections, and both apps allow location-based searches so you can meet someone nearby on the same night.
- Best relationship apps in Pretoria: eHarmony and EliteSingles are better for singles in Pretoria seeking serious commitment. eHarmony’s compatibility questionnaire helps filter out casual daters, while EliteSingles attracts professionals in fields like law, business, and medicine.
- Balanced apps: Hinge is slowly gaining traction in South Africa, including Pretoria. It’s not as casual as Tinder but still more flexible than eHarmony, which makes it a solid middle ground.
The bottom line: if you want a quick hookup in Pretoria, go with Tinder or Badoo. If you’re aiming for something serious, EliteSingles and eHarmony will save you wasted swipes.
Tips for Success on Pretoria Dating Sites
Even if you’re using the best Pretoria dating apps, success depends on how you approach online dating. Here are practical tips to boost your chances:
- Use local references in your profile. Mentioning Pretoria landmarks like Menlyn Mall, Loftus Versfeld Stadium, or the Union Buildings shows you’re genuine and sparks conversation.
- Choose high-quality photos. Bright, clear pictures with Pretoria backdrops (parks, cafes, nightlife spots) make you stand out from generic profiles.
- Be clear about your intent. If you’re looking for casual dating, say so. If you’re after something serious, apps like eHarmony or EliteSingles are better fits.
- Stay active. Log in daily, reply quickly, and use premium features where possible to gain visibility in Pretoria’s competitive dating market.
- Mix online and offline. Don’t just chat endlessly — suggest meeting at safe, public locations like Hazelwood restaurants or Hatfield coffee shops.
By combining the right platform with a smart approach, you’ll maximize your dating results in Pretoria.
Pretoria Dating App FAQs
Which dating app is best for serious relationships in Pretoria?
For serious commitment in Pretoria, EliteSingles and eHarmony are the top choices. They use detailed matching systems to connect you with professionals and career-focused singles, saving you time from casual swipers.
Do I need to pay for a dating app in Pretoria to get results?
While apps like Tinder and Badoo have free versions, a paid membership on platforms like EliteSingles or eHarmony significantly boosts your visibility and gives you access to advanced filters, which is crucial in Pretoria's competitive market.
How can I make my dating profile stand out in Pretoria?
Use high-quality photos with good lighting, and mention specific Pretoria landmarks like the Union Buildings or Menlyn Mall in your bio. Be clear about your dating goal—casual or serious—to attract the right matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best neighborhood for dating in Chicago right now?
West Loop for after-work drinks, River North for central meetups, and Wicker Park for late nights. Pick venues near CTA to make yes the easy answer.
2. How do I get more matches in Chicago without paying?
Tighten your distance and timing, add one full-length photo, mention two neighborhoods you frequent, and offer two time options in your opener.
3. What nights are best for first dates in Chicago in 2025?
Weeknights after seven work best. Thursday is the strongest, and Sunday early evening is underrated for calm first meets.
4. Which dating app in Mumbai gives the best results for serious relationships?
If you’re looking for something long-term in Mumbai, apps like eHarmony, Hinge, and Match stand out. Unlike swipe-heavy platforms, these focus on compatibility, values, and lifestyle. eHarmony uses an in-depth questionnaire that helps filter out casual users and connects you with people who share your goals. Hinge encourages detailed profiles and thoughtful prompts, which makes it easier to start genuine conversations. Match has been around for decades, so its reputation and large user base make it reliable for those seeking commitment. While you might get matches on Tinder or Bumble, the intent on those apps often leans casual. For Mumbai professionals and students who want more than just chatting, these apps consistently deliver higher-quality connections.
5. Are free dating apps in Mumbai enough, or should I pay for premium features?
Free apps like Tinder, OkCupid, or Plenty of Fish are good for testing the waters, but premium features usually make a big difference. With paid upgrades, you get higher visibility, advanced filters (such as education, lifestyle, or religion), and insights into who has liked your profile. In a competitive city like Mumbai, these advantages save time and help you connect faster with people who fit your preferences.
6. How can I improve my chances of getting matches on Mumbai dating apps?
Success comes down to standing out. Use clear, high-quality photos with good lighting—avoid group shots for your main image. Write a bio that mixes personality with clarity about what you’re seeking, whether it’s casual dating or something serious. Being active is key: log in daily, send thoughtful messages instead of generic “hi,” and update your profile regularly. On Mumbai apps where competition is high, consistency is what gets you noticed.
