If you’re in a hurry and want to know our choice for the best serious relationship dating site, then we recommend EliteSingles.
It can be tricky to find someone who’s looking for a long-term, serious relationship. So many people sign up to dating sites to hook up that it can be overwhelming to get started.
And with so many dating sites available, it’s hard to know which one will suit you the most. This is especially true if you’re fed up with casual dating and want to find your soulmate.
Serious relationship dating sites aim to make it easier for members. They allow people to build genuine connections using sophisticated matchmaking technology and various extra features. Many sites also offer helpful content that gives members tips and advice to secure a date.
The 8 best serious relationship sites:
What are the best serious relationship dating sites?
1. EliteSingles
About EliteSingles: EliteSingles offers serious dating for serious people. Thirty million people use the site worldwide – 85% of which hold an above-average education. The site uses super simple algorithms that aim to match its users up with like-minded singles. It’s quality over quantity with EliteSingles.
Why EliteSingles is a good app for serious relationship dating: EliteSingles understands that not everyone who uses online dating is looking for a serious relationship. This can be frustrating for singles looking for something long-term. As a result, EliteSingles caters to educated singles who are ready to build a meaningful connection. The algorithms are scientifically backed and aim to be accurate. Please read our review of EliteSingles.
>> Try EliteSingles for FREE <<
2. Match.com
About Match: If you’ve ever considered online dating, you’ve probably heard of Match.com. And no surprise – it’s one of the biggest dating sites in the world. Match.com claims that over 1.6 million people have met their match in the UK alone.
Why Match.com is a good app for serious relationship dating: To find a serious match on Match.com, you can browse matches on the site, use the mobile app, or attend a Match night or event. Here you can meet serious singles wherever you are in the country. It is an established dating site that attracts a strong crowd of singles looking for long-term love. Please read our review of Match.com
>> Try Match.com for FREE <<
3. eHarmony
About eHarmony: Every 14 minutes, someone finds love on eHarmony. It was founded to find its members long-term, serious relationships. It boasts over 60 million members worldwide – 4 million of which are in the UK. The gender split is pretty even too. 51% are male, and 49% are female.
Why eHarmony is a good site for serious relationship dating: eHarmony means business when it comes to finding its members a match. The clever algorithms use 29 stages of compatibility to match members up. This is excellent news as it means eHarmony does the hard work for you. As science figures out, members don’t have to spend time finding someone. You can only make contact with singles that eHarmony has matched you with. You can’t just contact anyone, meaning hookups are out. Please read our review of eHarmony
>> Try eHarmony for FREE <<
4. OurTime
About OurTime: OverTime is exclusively for singles over 50. It’s a relatively new dating site owned by Match.com, so the two are similar. The membership base is growing. It currently has 180,000 members worldwide and 120,000 in the UK. The search for love can be difficult for older singles. OurTime aims to make it easy.
Why OurTIme is best for serious relationship dating: OurTime specializes in connecting singles who are over 50. The site sets up events and activities to connect singles in person. There are also loads of expert and helpful dating advice available to help singles get started. Finally, OurTime asks members to fill out a questionnaire to find out who they’re looking for – leading to better matches. Please read our review of OurTime.
>> Try OurTime for FREE <<
5. SilverSingles
About SilverSingles: SilverSingles is one of the most popular golden-year dating sites. It offers a fresh take over 50s dating, perfect for the young at heart looking to find serious love. 80% of its members have some university degree. And people who sign up to SilverSingles are ready to date again. This might be after a divorce, or they’re seeking companionship.
Why SilverSingles is a good site for serious relationship dating: SilverSingles aims to create long-lasting relationships. It does this with sophisticated algorithms. This technology matches singles up with people it scientifically believes have a genuine connection. The site is not a place for hookups but for people to build lasting relationships. Please read our review of SilverSingles.
>> Try SilverSingles for FREE <<
6. Plenty of Fish
About Plenty of Fish: Plenty of Fish is one of the only free dating sites. This is what makes it so attractive. It’s also one of the largest dating platforms, with 150 million registered users online. The most prominent age demographic is 25-34-year-olds.
Why Plenty of Fish is one of the best serious relationship dating sites: While many people flock to the site to find something casual, many singles are looking for something serious. You have to do a bit of digging to find the right person. One of the newer features allows members to leave a voice recording once they’ve gotten to know someone better. This helps build better connections. Please read our review of Plenty of Fish.
7. Chemistry
About Chemistry.com: Chemistry is part of the Match.com family. It’s built on science and psychology to help its members find serious love. Because of this, most members are over 30 years old. They’re also seen as affluent members of society. 46% have a Bachelor’s Degree, and most members earn over $500k per year.
Why Chemistry.com is a good site for serious relationship dating: Chemistry uses an in-depth personality test designed by relationship expert Dr. Helen Fischer. The purpose of the test is to split members into four categories. These include Explorer, Builder, Negotiator, or Director. Each personality type has a best and worst match. The test pairs members with someone who suits their dating needs – finding someone suitable. Please read our review of Chemistry.
8. OkCupid
About OkCupid: OkCupid is one of the world’s leading dating sites. It’s also one of the most inclusive around. OkCupid knows its members are more than just a photo. They have stories to tell, passions to share, and things to talk about. It believes that dating deserves better – OkCupid isn’t just for hookups.
Why OkCupid is a good app for international dating: OkCupid uses a unique algorithm. This is designed to match the right singles up. When signing up, members are asked to answer a series of questions about what they want in a partner. You can also browse through profiles or use the many features that allow you to take control. Please read our review of OkCupid.
>> Try OkCupid for FREE <<
Best Serious Relationship Dating Sites FAQ
- How are serious relationship dating sites different from regular dating sites?
- Can you fall in love with someone online?
- Are there serious relationship dating sites for marriage
- Are there serious relationship dating sites for free?
- What are the benefits of joining a serious relationship dating site?
- Who’s on serious relationship dating sites?
- What factors to look for when choosing the best serious relationship dating app?
- What does it mean to be in a serious relationship?
- What defines a long-term relationship?
- What are some challenges of serious relationships?
- What are the benefits of having a serious long-term relationship?
How are serious relationship dating sites different from regular dating sites?
Serious relationship dating sites offer a unique dating experience for their users. They do this by creating clever algorithms that match like-minded singles up.
Serious dating sites encourage connection-building instead of hookups. They allow members to be selective with who they choose, which is better for helping to create a serious relationship.
Can you fall in love with someone online?
While there’s an air of doubt around online dating, it can effectively find singles’ love. People today are so busy. Introverts also lack confidence.
Meeting someone in a bar or on a blind date can be terrifying. The good news is research shows that relationships that start online are built on stronger relationships than those that start offline.
Online dating can help you find people who tick your boxes before you spend time getting to know them. Clever algorithms are also developed to match singles up. More often than not, you don’t need to put much effort into finding someone.
Are there serious relationship dating sites for marriage?
Match.com, eHarmony, and OkCupid are three good dating sites for marriage. All offer an easy-to-use experience. This allows members to get to grips with each site straight away. They’re popular too, with plenty of members joining each week. If you’re looking for a large dating pool, choosing anyone is an excellent place to start.
Are there serious relationship dating sites free?
Plenty of Fish and Oasis Dating are both free. You can message members and spark up a conversation without a subscription. While it means you must dig to find someone, both sites are a great way to get singles started on their dating journey.
What are the benefits of joining a serious relationship dating site?
1. Meet like-minded singles with similar interests
It can be challenging to meet someone with plenty in common. Dating sites bring together like-minded people in one place.
Match technology pairs you with singles you should have a connection with. Many singles are on dating sites for the same reason. They’re looking for something serious and will specify this on their profile.
2. Connect with singles looking for a serious commitment
Serious dating sites don’t attract people looking for a hookup. Instead, you get members looking to find a real connection with someone. Many singles have the same end goal in sight. This stops members from wasting time with singles only interested in something short-term.
3. Find a relationship that leads to marriage.
If marriage is on your radar, you’re more likely to find it on a serious dating site. When you sign up, you can specify this on your profile. This means you’ll only attract people who want the same result. This saves you time and disappointment further down the line.
Who’s on serious relationship dating sites?
Singles use serious dating sites to find long-term love. The age range differs between sites, but they’re most popular with people in their 30s. This is the age when people want to start settling down. Serious dating sites are also popular with people over 50. There is a large number of people who want to find love in their later years. Ultimately, people are looking for someone to build a great connection with. They’re not looking for a casual hookup but someone they can share their life with.
What factors to look for when choosing the best serious relationship dating app?
1. Quality and range of membership base
Singles looking for something serious will be looking for high-quality members to spend their life with. It’s important to find a dating site that attracts like-minded people. Some are exclusively for those over 50s. Others only allow educated singles to join. Whatever you’re looking for, make sure your chosen site meets your requirements first.
2. Privacy and security
Whenever you join a dating site, it’s so essential that your safety and security are a number one priority. Some sites are better than others with this. Check what your favorite website offers in the way of safety. Only sign up if you feel completely comfortable that your details will be safe.
3. Extra features
Some people love extra features. Other people don’t use them. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide. Some extra features do improve the dating experience. They can also make it easier to find someone. They can be fun if you’re happy to pay more for your subscription.
4. Price
Free dating sites are a great option if you’re on a budget. They allow you to chat with other members without tying into a subscription. Most dating sites do require a subscription, though. Your pay will vary, so check out what each site offers and compare it against your budget.
What does it mean to be in a serious relationship?
Being in a serious relationship means so much more than a casual hookup. The stakes are more intense. Two people in a serious relationship care deeply for one another. They may also love each other if they’ve been dating for a while. Couples in a serious relationship are usually building towards something. Both are committed – they may want to get married long-term. But ultimately, they enjoy spending time with each other and want to see it grow into something special.
What defines a long-term relationship?
A long-term relationship will mean different things to different couples. However, long-term often means that both parties are loyal to each other. They’ll work through their issues, no matter how hard they are. They’re honest with and trust each other. There’s mutual respect and love. And despite their busy schedules, they’ll make time for each other despite the distance.
What are some challenges of serious relationships?
1. Infidelity is one of the most common relationship challenges in romantic relationships
Cheating is one of the most significant factors in failing relationships. Boredom in the relationship can be a leading cause. Or one-half of the couple may develop feelings for someone else. The issue is that the consequences of infidelity can be devastating. The feeling of hopelessness, anguish, and betrayal are usually too difficult for the wronged person to forgive. And if the couple does decide to give it another go, the trust is usually already broken.
2. Being ready to marry or have children
This is often a massive problem for couples. It’s not uncommon for couples to be at different stages of readiness regarding marriage or children. The biggest problem is that a person can’t be convinced to be ready. A compromise can sometimes be made, but it’ll take time and effort to work through. However, it’s so important that couples don’t go on to resent each other about their decisions.
3. Different spending habits or financial secrets
Money is one of the most common things couples fight about. Many couples struggle to overcome their financial woes if this has been a problem from day one. This is especially the case if you both treat money differently. Financial secrets are perhaps even worse. If you or your partner is in debt and is trying to hide it, the relationship will stall. Secrets rarely stay secret.
Money is an integral part of day-to-day life. Therefore, being open and honest is vital to building a solid relationship. Don’t get stressed about money – talk about it.
4. Issues from the past
The past can be tricky to let go of. Whether someone has family issues or suffered problems in a past relationship, bringing them into a new relationship can stop you from moving on. You might not even realize that you’re dealing with things from your past. The problem is your partner will know that you’re holding back. You might need some time to adjust. If so, have an honest conversation with your partner to let them understand what you’re dealing with.
5. The quality of the serious relationship is often judged by intimacy
Intimacy is often confused with sex. Relationships are often judged by how often you have sex and how wild it can get. This can lead to an unhealthy obsession with sex. Some couples may feel under par compared to their friends and peers.
To combat this, focus on building feelings of bonding and connectedness. Intimacy is so much more than sex. It’s about showing affection and close discussion. This improves the psychological wellness of both people in the couple.
6. Differing in values, dreams, desires, and perceptions
Over time, two people may find they’re growing apart. What they want in life starts to become different. Their career and lifestyle goals don’t align. The good news is that couples can work through this.
The relationship has potential if one person can adopt their partner’s dreams and goals. However, if either partner doesn’t want to conform, it might be time to call it a day.
7. An inability to communicate
Communication is key. This must be worked out throughout the relationship – not just at the start or during a difficult period. All couples have ups and downs.
The key is to keep talking. It’s the best thing you can do for your relationship. Talking and being honest will create a healthy connection, allowing you to get through anything.
8. Boundary issues
If relationship boundaries are unclear, resentment can build. This isn’t something that will get better over time. For example, one person wants to spend every day together.
The other person might need some time to themselves. The only way around this is, to be honest about what you both want. Understanding from the start will save a lot of heartache later on.
9. Sexual intimacy is an essential fact of a serious relationship
Sex is what differentiates an intimate relationship from a friendship. But it’s not just about doing the physical deed. It’s about building a romantic connection and knowing each other deeper.
At the beginning of a relationship, sex is exciting and lustful. As the relationship gets older, it can become stale. Couples often become too busy for sexual intimacy. There are careers and children to look after. Over time, these frustrations will build.
It’s so essential for a couple to maintain their sexual intimacy. Without it, they may lose their connection and begin to drift.
10. Substance abuse could be a way to cope with relationship problems
When someone feels like they can’t get out of their relationship, they may turn to substances to help with their feelings. This could lead to a multitude of problems.
Substance abuse can add to financial issues. The person with the addiction will usually switch off their feelings. They may become cold and distant. Not only will their partner lack attention and affection, but they may fall out of love. This is because they no longer recognize their partner.
What are the benefits of having a serious long-term relationship?
1. Health benefits – heart, stress, and mental health
According to research, middle-aged women and happily married are at a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Love is good for the heart. It’s good for stress too. Showing affection can release stress-reducing hormones. And finally, a serious relationship reduces feelings of isolation. This lowers the overall risk of depression.
2. You’ll feel a sense of attachment and security
Being in a committed relationship gives you a safety blanket. It makes you feel secure. If you’re up for trying new things, there’ll always be there to catch you when you fall. There’s also someone there to help you through tricky situations. This can help you feel stronger, as you’ll never have to do anything alone again.
3. Everything is cheaper
Being in a relationship means you can split the cost of everything. Rent, shopping, or even a romantic dinner – you can share the bill. You might even be able to save some money. If one of you is feeling a financial strain, you can lean on the other person for support.
4. You can fully trust someone.
There’s no better feeling than being with someone you can say anything to. Over time, they’ll know your innermost thoughts and your deepest secrets. You can tell them anything. You can also trust that they’ll be with you every step.
5. The laughter is more resounding, the sex is better, and the affection is stronger
In a serious relationship, you likely have great affection for your partner. This means that you’ll enjoy the time you have together. You’ll be genuinely connected through sex – it’s not some fling that’s purely physical. There’s great respect between the two of you too.
6. You can savor shared memories.
Looking back on beautiful memories can make you feel happy and brighter. You’ll have memories that only the two of you will have experienced. These memories could be simple, like a movie you enjoyed together. Or they could be significant – things you’ll remember for life.
7. You don’t need to look perfect.
Who has time to do their hair and makeup each day? While it’s nice to dress up now and then, it’s nice to be comfortable in your skin. The novelty of getting dressed up soon disappears. And besides, your partner should love you for who you are. In a serious relationship, there’s no pressure to look perfect. Your partner knows you inside out, and looks aren’t a dealbreaker.
8. Teach each other new things, adventure together, and tackle challenges together
Experiencing something for the first time is lovely when you can share it with someone. You can go anywhere in the world together and become a strong team unit. While adventuring alone is fun, there’s nothing like spending time with someone else.
What are the pros and cons of serious relationship dating sites?
✓ Pros of Serious Relationship Dating Sites
- Find someone you genuinely care about.
- Chat with serious people.
- Get matched up by sophisticated algorithms.
X Cons of Serious Relationship Dating Sites
- Getting started can be overwhelming.
- Meet people who aren’t quite right at first.
- Subscriptions can be expensive.
My recommendation
Regarding which serious dating site gets our vote, we’re a big fan of EliteSingles. It’s one of the best dating sites on the market. They cater to educated singles who are typically older and specialize in finding members long-term love. Membership costs are a little high, but the questionnaire is backed by science. This is what gives members their matches.
Other things we like:
- Elite Singles removes inactive users. It will only match you with people who are likely to respond.
- It sends you carefully curated members.
- There’s a feature called have you met. This lets you see singles you might not have matched with through the personality test.
