Dating Apps for Single Parents: Best Picks and Tips in 2025

Dating as a single parent can be both rewarding and challenging. Juggling parenting responsibilities, work, and personal time often leaves little room for traditional dating. That’s where dating apps for single parents come in—they offer a convenient, safe, and effective way to meet like-minded individuals who understand the unique demands of raising children.

In 2025, online dating has become more inclusive and targeted, with apps catering specifically to single moms and dads. Whether you’re looking for a serious relationship, friendship, or companionship, there’s a dating app for your needs.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best dating apps for single parents, tips for creating a great profile, and advice for navigating the dating world with kids in the picture.

Why Use a Dating App as a Single Parent?

Dating apps offer several advantages for single parents:

• Flexibility: You can chat and connect with others at your own pace and during your free time—no need for babysitters or late-night outings just to meet someone.

• Compatibility: Many apps offer filters for family values, lifestyle, and parenting preferences, helping you find someone who truly fits your situation.

• Understanding: Single parent dating apps often feature users who are also raising kids, reducing the fear of being misunderstood.

Let’s explore the top platforms that cater to single moms and dads.

1. SingleParentMeet

Best for: Single parents seeking relationships with other single parents.

SingleParentMeet is one of the most well-known dating apps tailored specifically for single moms and dads. It provides a user-friendly experience with features like profile matching, messaging, and video introductions.

Key Features:

• Only single parents or people open to dating single parents

• Affordable premium membership options

• Daily matches based on your profile

Pros: Highly relevant user base
Cons: Basic design and fewer users in some areas

2. eHarmony

Best for: Single parents looking for long-term relationships.

eHarmony is not specifically for single parents, but it’s known for deep compatibility matching and high success rates. The detailed sign-up process ensures better matches for those serious about finding a partner who aligns with their family values.

Key Features:

• In-depth personality quiz

• Compatibility score system

• Strong focus on meaningful relationships

Pros: High-quality profiles, strong matchmaking
Cons: Time-consuming sign-up and higher cost

3. Match

Best for: Single parents who want a blend of casual and serious options.

Match is a mainstream dating platform with customizable filters that allow you to search for fellow single parents or those who are family-oriented. Its wide user base increases your chances of finding someone nearby.

Key Features:

• Advanced search filters for family preferences

• Daily match suggestions

• In-person events (in select cities)

Pros: Large user base
Cons: Requires a paid plan for full features

4. Plenty of Fish (POF)

Best for: Single parents on a budget.

POF is a free dating platform with millions of users worldwide. It offers basic matching features and a questionnaire to help find compatible partners. Though not specific to single parents, you can filter for users who have kids or want to date someone with children.

Key Features:

• Free messaging

• Filters for family and lifestyle

• “Spark” compatibility system

Pros: Free to use, many users
Cons: Less curated and may require filtering out less serious profiles

5. Bumble

Best for: Empowered dating with control over who initiates.

Bumble puts women in control by allowing them to send the first message. This app appeals to single moms who want to take the lead in conversations. While not exclusive to single parents, its modern, respectful atmosphere is a plus.

Key Features:

• Women message first (for opposite-gender matches)

• Profile badges for parental status

• Video chat and voice call options

Pros: Female-friendly design, modern feel
Cons: 24-hour response window can be limiting

6. Coffee Meets Bagel

Best for: Quality over quantity.

Coffee Meets Bagel offers a slow-dating approach—one curated match per day. This is ideal for busy single parents who don’t want to waste time swiping endlessly.

Key Features:

• Personalized daily matches

• Icebreaker prompts

• Focus on meaningful interactions

Pros: Time-efficient, thoughtful matching
Cons: Limited matches per day

7. Just Single Parents (UK & US)

Best for: Local single parents seeking community and romance.

Just Single Parents is a niche app in the UK and growing in the US, providing a close-knit, understanding community. It’s great for those who want to date someone who truly gets the parenting lifestyle.

Key Features:

• Local matches

• Supportive blog and advice hub

• Dating events and forums

Pros: Focused community, helpful content
Cons: Smaller user base compared to mainstream apps

Tips for Single Parents Using Dating Apps

Once you’ve picked the right platform, here are some tips to make your experience smoother:

1. Be Honest About Having Kids

Don’t hide the fact that you’re a parent. Being upfront helps you attract people who are comfortable with your lifestyle.

2. Set Realistic Expectations

Not every date will turn into something serious. Be open-minded, but also clear about what you’re looking for.

3. Protect Your Privacy

Wait before sharing personal details like your kids’ names or home address. Always meet in public places.

4. Balance Dating with Parenting

Your kids come first, but you deserve love, too. Find a healthy balance that honors both parts of your life.

5. Watch for Red Flags

Anyone who dismisses or undermines your parenting role is not a good match. Choose partners who respect your priorities.

Final Thoughts

Dating apps for single parents in 2025 offer more choices and better tools than ever before. Whether you’re looking for love, companionship, or someone who understands the challenges of parenthood, there’s an app designed for you.

From niche platforms like SingleParentMeet to broader options like eHarmony or Bumble, single moms and dads can find meaningful connections while staying true to their parenting journey. With the right mindset, tools, and intentions, dating as a single parent can be not only possible—but deeply fulfilling.