UPDATE: As Valentine’s Day approaches, a significant shift is underway among Gen Z singles who are turning away from dating apps and embracing matchmakers. Reports show a growing fatigue with online dating as many young people seek genuine connections in real life.
In a striking trend, young singles like Shardil Ahmad, a 28-year-old medical resident from New York, are opting for personalized matchmaking services. “I wanted to be the one to discover this person,” Ahmad said, initially skeptical about using a matchmaker. However, after realizing the limitations of dating apps during his demanding six-day workweeks, he decided to give matchmaking a try.
The pandemic initially boosted dating apps like Tinder, which recorded 3 billion swipes in a single day. But recent data from Match Group, the parent company of popular apps, reveals a 5% decline in paying subscribers compared to last year. This decline highlights a growing desire among Gen Z for more intentional, in-person dating experiences.
Matchmaker Maria Avgitidis, founder of Agape Match, confirms the uptick in younger clients seeking alternatives to the swipe culture. “Many of them graduated high school or college via Zoom, so they really do want that intentionality of in real-life experiences,” she stated.
Despite a trend towards delaying marriage and parenthood, nearly 70% of adults aged 18 to 34 who have never been married express a desire to marry eventually, according to the latest data from Pew Research Center. Ahmad reflects this sentiment, questioning, “If you’re not dating for marriage, what are you dating for?”
The resurgence of matchmaking has also permeated popular culture, with shows like “Indian Matchmaking” gaining traction alongside films that highlight the matchmaking process. However, the costs of these services can be steep; fees range from $30,000 to $100,000 depending on the level of service.
Ahmad initially hesitated due to the financial commitment, saying, “How am I gonna spend this much on love?” Yet, he found the structured approach of matchmaking to be a time saver amid his busy schedule.
For those concerned about the costs, some matchmaking agencies offer free databases for potential matches, alongside packages that include coaching and dating support. Avgitidis emphasizes the importance of community in dating, noting, “We are not meant to date alone.”
As Valentine’s Day draws near, it’s clear that many in Gen Z are looking for deeper connections, turning to matchmakers as a viable alternative to the digital dating landscape. This trend signals a potential turning point in dating culture, as young people seek meaningful relationships over casual encounters.
Stay tuned for more updates as this compelling story unfolds.