Is Dating in Canada Hard? – A Real Answer and Tips to Help

It’s a loaded question, isn’t it? Is dating in Canada hard?

The short answer is that it depends on who you ask. But, you’re here for more than that…

Our expertise is reviewing and recommending the best dating apps to make single life easier. But to determine what that life is like for unmarried or divorced Canadians in the dating pool, we went straight to the sources.

While everyone has different opinions, we did see some patterns emerge. So, if you’re wondering if dating in Canada is hard, you’re in the right place. We’ll be sharing some first-hand viewpoints, and then you can decide if you want to see that dating pool as half-filled or half-empty.

Dating in Canada by the Numbers

When you’re single, it can sometimes feel like you’re the only one. Your co-worker’s sharing stories of their kid’s first birthday party; your roommate from Uni just asked you to be in the wedding party, and your best friend is blowing you off this weekend for a new crush. It can be frustrating.

But if you can look past your situation, you might be surprised how many people are in the same boat.

Here’s a glimpse at three numbers that can help paint a picture of singles life in Canada:

• Canada has a compact population density. More than 38% of the entire 38+ million population resides in Ontario. If you’re single in the Northwest Territory, Yukon, or Nunavut, only about 1% of all Canadians live in your area. Take about 50% of that number for potential partners, a relatively tiny number.

• More than 50% of Canadians between 25 to 29 years of age (approximately 1.5 million of a total of 2.65 million) are single and ready to mingle.

• The ratio of male to female singles is predominantly male until age 40, then the tide turns, and never married, divorced, or widowed females outnumber their male counterparts.

Love and numbers don’t exactly go hand in hand. But when seeking unbiased information, those stats reveal that dating is easier in some territories than in others. The dating pool is pretty darn big for Canadians in their 20s, and young women who say there aren’t any good men out there might not be looking hard enough.

Where is Dating in Canada the Most Challenging?

It’s a good thing we’re answering this question instead of you. Because if you ask unmarried Canadians where dating in Canada is the hardest, they’ll typically name their hometowns. And, hey, we really can’t dispute that because when you’re single, it’s all about you – and not how successful singles are elsewhere.

The Lonely City

However, we have to give a shout-out to Vancouver for being just a little more challenging to get dates and connect with that special someone.

Vancouver is known as the Lonely City, and almost half of the people who live there report feeling lonely and more isolated. Plus, there’s an unwritten rule: you don’t just walk up to someone in Vancouver and chat them up. Approaching strangers is considered taboo, so singles primarily rely on dating apps, friend groups, and business connections.

That doesn’t mean the situation is bleak, though. It just takes some self-motivation and creativity. For inspiration, you can check out our blog post about creative ways to meet singles in Vancouver. You have to be willing to step outside your comfort zone, though.

Who Has the Hardest Time Dating in Canada?

Again, we know you’re shouting, “I do! I have the hardest time dating in Canada.” Well, maybe that’s true. Or you’re not giving yourself enough credit.

Consistent feedback from Canadian singles indicated that the best way to meet someone is through existing connections – friends, co-workers, etc. That means newbies in town without established social circles have a dating disadvantage, at least when getting a date IRL.

With some cultural bias against approaching strangers and Canadians not known for being the most outgoing and assertive, many singles have a hard time dating in the Great White North, regardless of location.

Tips To Make Dating in Canada Easier

You must try something different to flip the challenges of dating in Canada. So, the most effective thing you can do to get the ball rolling is to identify what’s been holding you back.

Do any of the following resonate?

• I’m suspicious of dating apps, so I haven’t tried one.
• It’s embarrassing to put myself out there, so I don’t want to ask my co-workers if they have single friends.
• I just moved to Canada and don’t know anyone yet.
• There just aren’t any good men/women out there.

If you can relate to any of the four, dating in Canada will be easier when you face the challenge head-on.

Dating App Apprehension

OK, you’ve probably heard stories about dating apps exclusively used for hookups or profiles with photos from 30 years ago. We’ve reviewed enough dating sites to know those things exist.

However, we also know that there are some quality dating apps with better security measures and those that focus on commitment-based relationships instead of swiping left or right for a date tonight.

Quality dating apps have been super-successful for Canadian singles. So, check out our recommendations and dip your toe in the virtual water. You might be surprised at what you find.

Be Honest with Co-Workers and Friends

Everyone on this earth has been single at some point. So what’s there to be embarrassed about with co-workers, friends, business associates, etc.?

You have to let people know you’re open to meeting someone. Even if they don’t have a top-of-mind match for you, it’s like having a bunch of personal matchmakers out in the world. Maybe their friends know someone that would be ideal for you?!

New in Town

If you just moved to Canada or relocated from one area to another, it’s challenging enough to make a new friend, let alone find a partner.

Yes, dating apps could do the trick. But you could do some out-of-the-box experiments, too.

A few ideas:

• Join a club
• Take a cooking class
• Speed dating
• Volunteer
• Hang out at a dog park
• Join a pub quiz team

Our “How to Meet Singles” series has plenty more ideas: Here is how to meet singles in Scotland.

No Good Women or Men Left in Canada

C’mon. Just reading that, you can see how crazy it sounds. It might feel that way, but if that’s your mantra, you won’t meet quality singles.

Open your heart and your mind and approach dating in Canada differently. A few little changes to your thoughts and actions, and by this time next year, your life might be happily unrecognizable. You’ll tell your single friends to get out there because dating in Canada is easy!