It turns out Gen Z is swiping left on dating apps.
That’s according to a recent Generation Lab survey that found 79% of college and graduate students are steering clear of dating apps. In fact, only 12% of students said they use one at least once a month.
Despite dating apps targeting college students with advertising and campus events, the majority of young people express a preference for genuine, face-to-face connections.
“I feel dating apps have ruined the dating scene for many people my age and ruined their self-confidence,” said Melanie Perez, a junior at Sam Houston State University. “I’d rather meet and start as friends than use an app that’ll most likely end in hookups.”
The survey also sheds light on the shifting priorities of college students when evaluating potential partners. A notable 37% of respondents rated beliefs as the most important factor, beating out professional goals and physical appearance. Another Generation Lab poll revealed that most college students wouldn’t consider dating someone with opposing political views, highlighting the significance of shared values in modern relationships.
So what are dating apps doing to try and bring a once-major demographic back to the apps? Implementing baffling subscription options.
This week Tinder launched its premium subscription service, Tinder Select, priced at an eye-popping $499 per month. The company claims the subscription offers the “best of Tinder,” such as sending messages without matching and access to the most desired profiles.
However, the online response has been overwhelmingly negative, with users questioning the value of such a premium service. YouTuber Marques Brownless asked, “How down bad do you gotta be? At this point just get an escort.”
It seems the future of dating might be less about swipes and perks, and more about genuine, in-person connections.
