Best Dating Sites
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Priscilla grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, and lived in the Midwest her entire life, so relocating to Columbus, Georgia, in her mid-40s was quite a culture shock. She posted on a City-Data discussion forum hoping to get some insider tips on how to make a home in such a diverse city.
“I need a change of scenery and a better environment for me and my daughters,” she wrote, saying she was tired of waking up to the sounds of sirens in St. Louis.
A 29-year-old engineer also posted in the forum after moving to Columbus. Storm_chaser wanted to meet single women but hadn’t gotten lucky on Tinder or at a bar near his apartment. He hoped locals could give him better advice.
Both these Columbus newcomers got a couple of kind responses, but neither really got the advice they needed to take advantage of everything the city has to offer. Our dating experts decided to step in and offer a more comprehensive answer to the question of how to meet people in Columbus. Here we go!
1
Columbus Dating Sites
First of all, if you want to meet singles in town, you should try online dating. That should be a given, but many singles still resist meeting people online because of safety concerns or general squeamishness. You shouldn’t let those fears hold you back, though. The number of young adults using dating sites or apps has tripled in the last six years, and modern singles can’t afford to miss out on such a ripe opportunity to build close relationships.
Best Singles Site
Match is the Peachtree Mall of the online dating scene. It’s massive, popular, and a great place to make new friends. You can browse for a date using the advanced search tools, and upgrade your account when you’re ready to make something happen. Founded in 1995, Match has been in business longer than any other dating site, and it has more success stories to its name, too.
★★★★★
Relationships: Friends, Dates, and Relationships
Match System: Browse by zip, age, appearance, more
Our Experts Say: “Match has facilitated the most dates and relationships of any dating site, and its large audience and high success rate make it our top review...” Full Review »
Browse Free: View Photos Now
| User Base | Gender Ratio | Popularity (Visits/Mo.) |
Today's Deal
|
| All Singles* |
49%*
51%*
|
39.7 Million* | Try Match FREE |
Best Site for Professionals
If Match is a shopping mall, then EliteSingles is a boutique store where you have a concierge assistant helping you make a selection. This dating site uses a highly intelligent matching system to pair up high-caliber singles who have great careers, come from great families, and just want to find that missing piece to the puzzle.
★★★★★
Relationships: Serious Relationships
Match System: Search, Receive Partner Suggestions
Our Experts Say: “EliteSingles is a leading dating site just for busy, single professionals. More than 80% of members have earned a college degree, and most are looking for a serious commitment...” Full Review »
Browse Free: View Photos Now
| User Base | Gender Ratio | Popularity (Visits/Mo.) |
Today's Deal
|
| All Singles* |
44%*
56%*
|
2 Million* | Browse Profiles Free |
Over 50 & Senior Sites
A majority of Columbus residents are under 44 years old, so senior singles may have a tough time navigating the local dating scene. If you’re over 50 and tired of being in the minority, you should join OurTime. This dating site caters to singles over 50 and empowers them to meet lots of age-appropriate dates.
★★★★★
Relationships: Dates and Relationships
Match System: Search by profiles by zip and more
Our Experts Say: “OurTime is well-known in the over-50 dating crowd, particularly because it has a ton of helpful search features and an easy layout...” Full Review »
Browse Free: View Photos Now
| User Base | Gender Ratio | Popularity (Visits/Mo.) |
Today's Deal
|
| Mature Singles (50+)* |
48%*
52%*
|
8.9 Million* | Over 50? Try It FREE |
For Black Men & Women Only
Columbus is an ethnically diverse city with many interracial couples and people of color living in harmony. If you want to find a black or biracial date in the city, you can log into BlackPeopleMeet, the largest African-American dating network in the U.S. This site welcomes people of all races, but it particularly caters to singles who want to date in the black community.
★★★★★
Relationships: Deep Relationships or Just Casual Dates
Match System: Search by location, age, more
Our Experts Say: “BlackPeopleMeet.com is the one of the largest and most popular dating sites for black and biracial singles, and the site is used by more than 5 million people a month...” Full Review »
Browse Free: View Photos Now
| User Base | Gender Ratio | Popularity (Visits/Mo.) |
Today's Deal
|
| Black Singles* |
47%*
53%*
|
5.7 Million* | FREE Trial for New Users |
Hookup & Sex Site
Finally, Adult Friend Finder is the sex-positive dating site for singles who enjoy walking on the wild side. This nonjudgmental platform promotes promiscuity and supports sexual exploration. You can find a sexy partner in crime by browsing the site’s 95 million profiles.
★★★★★
Relationships: Hookups Only
Match System: Search by location, interest, more
Our Experts Say: “Make no mistake: this site isn't about making friends, it's about finding hookups and casual encounters. No adult site has a larger or more active user base of those seeking discreet fun...”
Browse Free: View Photos Now
| User Base | Gender Ratio | Popularity (Visits/Mo.) |
Today's Deal
|
| All Singles* |
65%*
35%*
|
25.5 Million* | 3 Months @ $19.95/Mo |
2
Popular Dating Apps
These days, I use my phone for pretty much everything (except calling people). I can order groceries, set up a vet appointment, and read novels all on my phone. I can even pick up a date! Once dating apps became a thing, singles started going out on a lot more coffee dates and meeting more people around town. We recommend using the following mobile-friendly dating platforms to make your search for love and connection a little more convenient.
Available on: iOS, Android
- Relationships: Fun Dates, Serious Relationships
- Match System: Browse by location, age, interest, and more
- About the App: Available via the App Store and Google Play, Match is a fantastic app for dates and relationships. With a user base of 30 million singles, Match is where you'll have a high chance of success. It's free to download, create a profile, search for date prospects, and receive compatible matches based on personalized preferences. Free members can also chat with select members and send unlimited likes.
- Browse Free: View Profiles Now
| User Base | Gender Ratio | Popularity (Visits/Mo.) | App Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Singles* |
49%*
51%*
|
13.5 Million* | Free Download |
Available on: iOS, Android
- Relationships: Deep Relationships
- Match System: Search by education, lifestyle habits, age
- About the App: Commitment-minded, professional daters will feel at home with EliteSingles, which can be downloaded for free in the App Store or Google Play. Not only is everyone looking for a long-term partner, but 80% of members hold a bachelor's, master's, or doctorate degree. EliteSingles sees 210,000 visitors and 2,500 users finding love every month, so it's one of the fastest growing and most reputable apps.
- Browse Free: View Profiles Now
| User Base | Gender Ratio | Popularity (Visits/Mo.) | App Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Singles* |
43%*
57%*
|
290,000* | Free Download |
Available on: iOS, Android
- Relationships: Casual Dates, Relationships
- Match System: Search for and receive matches
- About the App: Zoosk is the number one app for finding dates, and if you sync up your Google+ or Facebook account, you can have a profile in seconds. The app has 38 million members and will deliver matches to your inbox on a daily basis based on your behavior such as who you search for, like or don't like, and message. The Carousel is another section for matching (tap the heart if it's a yes and the X if it's a no).
- Browse Free: View Profiles Now
| User Base | Gender Ratio | Popularity (Visits/Mo.) | App Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Singles* |
48%*
52%*
|
3.8 Million* | Free Download |
3
Columbus Singles Bars
We’ve talked a lot about the online world in this article, so it’s time to cover a few offline ways to meet people. Like going to a bar. You can easily make a friend by ordering a round of drinks or maybe a shareable appetizer at a local watering hole. The friendly atmosphere can embolden folks seeking new connections. At the end of the day, going outside and having face-to-face conversations is still the best way to secure a lasting bond with someone new. We’ve picked out a few of the most popular bars in Columbus to help singles up their offline flirtation games.
1
Nonic Beer Bar & Kitchen
Nonic Bar & Kitchen is first on our list of the best bars in Columbus because it has a little something for everyone. The draft list goes on for miles, but the wine and spirits selection is equally robust. You can show up at 5 p.m. for a low-key meal with happy hour drinks, or you can come by at 10 p.m. to listen to live music in a party atmosphere. The bar has a dog-friendly patio, a decadent brunch menu, and 30 rotating taps. Patrons should note that it's a 21+ establishment inside, but children are welcome at the outdoor patio.
2
Scruffy Murphy's Irish Pub
Scruffy Murphy's Irish Pub is a what-you-see-is-what-you-get kind of place. From the wooden floors to the brick walls, this bar feels like home to a lot of patrons. It's a good old-fashioned place to get some pub grub (fish and chips, anyone?) and share a pint with someone at the bar. You don't have to put on airs here. You can relax, eat with your hands, and be yourself, and that comfortable atmosphere helps singles come into their own.
3
CIRCA Craft Cocktails
CIRCA is proud to serve some of the most original and tasty cocktails in Columbus. Its colorful menu of drinks packs a punch and is well worth spending a few extra dollars. This place offers something special from the velvety purple chairs to the late-night kitchen. Whether you're there for an indie artist showcase, an open mic night, or just a plain-old Tuesday, you're bound to have a great time at this hip locale.
4
After 5 Sports Bar Grill
Downtown can get a little congested and crazy sometimes, so if you want to take a break from Broadway, you can always head to Midtown Drive where you'll find After 5 Sports Bar Grill. This bar opens at 6 p.m. every night (hence the name), and it stays open until 3 a.m. The bar is closed on Mondays. Security here is pretty strict, but once you're through the metal detectors you can let loose and have a great time listening to live music. After 5 Sports Bar Grill attracts a diverse crowd, so you won't have to look very hard to find attractive and friendly singles.
5
Soho Bar & Grill
The Soho Bar & Grill stays open until 3 a.m. six nights a week (it's closed on Sundays), so it's a great place for night owls looking for a wild night. The bar often excites the crowd by bringing in local bands, singers, and talent on the weekends, and you can always find regulars at the pool tables or dartboards on weeknights. This eclectic hangout offers a friendly smile and a stiff drink to all. Please note that it is quite smoky and loud here, so make sure you're in the mood for a dive when you stop by the Soho Bar & Grill.
6
The Loft
Since 1992, the Loft has offered locals a trendy restaurant, lounge, comedy club, music venue, and bar where they can forget their cares for an evening. This is a place to celebrate and socialize. A place where the fresh, wholesome food is just the opening act. The Loft is known for its weekly comedy nights (every Thursday) and live music shows (every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday). It also features a cozy upstairs lounge where patrons can share a cocktail without missing a beat.
4
Columbus Speed Dating
Many busy singles have a tough time making room in their schedules for one date a week, much less more than one. They have a finite amount of free time, and it can be a bummer to waste a Saturday night on someone who isn’t worth it. That’s why time-conscious singles enjoy speed dating events where they can cut through the small talk and start establishing a connection with dozens of promising dates. It’s a fast-paced night of flirtation that makes the dating process a lot more efficient — and a lot more fun too!
5
Columbus Singles Events
Singles events bring dateworthy folks together in a unique social environment. A lot of people come on their own for the sole purpose of meeting new people and (hopefully) finding a hot date. Some events are centered around a certain activity (painting, hiking, book reading, etc.), while others are more loosey-goosey happy hours or Sunday brunches. You can search Meetup by keyword to find a Columbus event that meets your interests and schedule.
6
Columbus Singles Clubs
Not much of a conversationalist? Then a nightclub may be the perfect date venue for you. At a club, thumping music sweeps people off their feet and takes the pressure off first meetings by getting everyone moving and grooving. You don’t have to say a word to form a close connection with someone on the dance floor. It’s all about body language and facial expressions here. Singles at the club flirt with one another using their hips, arms, hands, and, sometimes, lips.
7
Columbus Chat Rooms
Chat rooms, unlike nightclubs, are all about conversation. People can’t see one another, so they use their words to paint a picture and describe who they are. This is a low-pressure dating environment where you don’t have to put in a lot of effort to find someone willing to chat. People usually go by first names or usernames here, so there is an element of mystery to the open forum. You can sign up for the following singles chat rooms for free and start scouting for local dates.
8
Columbus Personals
Dating personals sites may look like traditional dating sites on the surface, but the matching system is much more straightforward. Instead of recommending profiles or calculating compatibility, personals sites simply put singles in a room together and count on them to figure it out. These sites typically have basic search features, concise profiles, and zero match algorithms. It’s up to you to look around and find singles who meet your standards.
9
Join a Club of Like-Minded People
Singles in search of a date sometimes have to get creative to find common ground with new people. Joining a social club can be a great way to take advantage of the dating opportunities around you. Members of a club generally share similar interests and values, so it’s not too much of a stretch to hope that some of those friendships might lead to something more serious.
The Columbus Newcomers Club is perfect for singles who have just moved to town and want to meet a lot of people at once. This community-oriented group organizes frequent outings to bowling alleys, breweries, and neighborhoods. These events get singles to come out of their shells and make friends.
You can also take part in an adult sports league to increase your odds of knocking it out of the park with someone.
Sports Monster Columbus runs adult sports leagues throughout the year.
Since 1994, Sports Monster Columbus has sponsored season after season of basketball, bowling, dodgeball, flag football, kickball, hockey, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball. Its tournaments and social events provide a rallying point for physically fit singles in Columbus.
Whether you’re joining a bird watchers society or a crowd of sports fans, you can expand your horizons by putting yourself out there consistently. After all, you’ll never meet new people by staying at home.
Explore the Dating Scene in the Heart of the South
A lot of singles struggle to find the place where they belong and the person they’re meant to be with. This is an issue that affects people of all genders, races, and age groups. Whether they’re a single mother in her 40s or a young professional in his 20s, singles share a common impulse to reach out and connect with others in their communities.
Singles in Columbus, Georgia, may not always know how to go about it, but they’re all on the same essential journey to meet that special person who makes them happy. Anyone interested in making a date can explore social spots online and offline to get moving in the right direction.
Even when you stumble or fall short, you have to learn to pick yourself back up and try again. Comedian Wayne Brady, who was born in Columbus, recently opened up about his battle with depression. “It starts this cycle where you tell yourself these lies,” he said. “It took me a while to get my stuff together to go, ‘You know what? If you’re not happy, you have to do something about it.'”
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