Swipe Nila Utama — Good luck finding love in Singapore without a dating app
Dating in Singapore is a unique experience — some might say it’s a walk in East Coast Park, while others would argue it’s a damn sian transactional affair. Armed with data, humour, and a healthy dose of skepticism, let’s dive into the realities of modern dating in the Little Red Dot.
How Do Singaporeans Find Love?
According to the data from our recent survey on dating in Singapore, people are still swipin’ thru apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Coffee Meets Bagel. There is, however, a sizable group who believe in “organic” love — meeting through work, school, or their social circles. This is adorable in theory, but considering how most Singaporeans work 44-hour weeks and socialize through lunch with their colleagues, the odds of a meet-cute seem… slim.
Dating Feels Like a Business Transaction
A solid 56% of respondents agreed that dating in Singapore feels transactional. Between career goals and financial stability, romance sometimes takes a backseat to efficiency. Love letters? Out. BTO queue numbers? In.
Finding Like-Minded Singles is HARD
The struggle is real: 57% of respondents find it difficult to meet singles with similar interests. This begs the question — are people in Singapore really that different, or are we just swiping too fast to notice potential compatibility?
Maybe the real issue is that nobody wants to be the one to initiate a conversation longer than “wyd?”, and have it spiral into a never-ending “talking stage”.
Would Moving Improve Your Love Life?
Some believe their dating prospects would improve if they moved abroad (cue dramatic escape plan to New Zealand or Europe). Only 38% think this is true, which means a majority either love the local dating scene or have simply resigned themselves to their fate. Perhaps dating woes aren’t about geography — it’s just that love is difficult everywhere. Sorry folks, opening your Tinder in a new city isn’t a magic fix.
Do Singaporeans Prefer Dating Non-Locals?
Only 12% prefer dating non-Singaporeans, meaning most people aren’t actively seeking an international romance. This kills the stereotype that locals always chase the elusive “exotic” partner (cough angmohs cough). Turns out, familiarity is more comforting than we thought!
What Happens Post-Marriage That Makes Men Fine Being Single?
One curious finding from our survey: a number of married men in their 30s agree with the statement “I am fine with being single.” So, what happens after marriage that makes them comfortable with solitude?
Could it be the relentless expectations? The endless cycle of responsibility? Or just the realization that sometimes, personal space and uninterrupted FIFA time is worth its weight in gold? While love and companionship are fulfilling, some men might find that post-marriage life comes with a level of mental fatigue that makes solitude seem pretty appealing.
Final Thoughts
Love in Singapore is a mix of efficiency, frustration, and the occasional glimmer of romance. Whether you’re swiping, praying for fate to intervene, or just hoping for a miracle at your next social gathering, one thing’s for sure: dating can be tricky. So, keep your expectations balanced, your dating apps updated, and maybe — just maybe — give that next coffee date a real shot.
