In the fast-paced world of online dating, your city can play a huge role in how active you are on platforms like Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful relationship or simply want to meet new people, understanding the dating trends in your area can help you stand out. But, which UK cities are truly leading the charge when it comes to dating app activity?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top cities for dating app activity in the UK, based on the number of conversations and searches per 100,000 residents, and provide some expert
dating app tips to ensure you make the most of your time swiping.
Top UK Cities for Dating App Activity
Conversations and searches
per 100,000 residents
| Rank | Cities | Tinder | Hinge | Bumble |
Dating App Mad cities |
| 1 | Exeter | 107.9 | 95.5 | 124.6 | 86.3 |
| 2 | Blackburn | 121.4 | 89.1 | 82.4 | 78.7 |
| 3 | Cambridge | 85.6 | 104.3 | 83.3 | 73.8 |
| 4 | Penzance | 43.2 | 76.9 | 153.8 | 69.0 |
| 5 | London | 101.0 | 99.1 | 45.9 | 68.1 |
| 6 | Oxford | 71.6 | 106.3 | 71.1 | 67.8 |
| 7 | Dover | 109.9 | 63.2 | 74.2 | 65.6 |
| 8 | Inverness | 97.4 | 55.4 | 95.2 | 64.3 |
| 9 | Norwich | 86.0 | 56.6 | 102.7 | 63.1 |
| 10 | Edinburgh | 89.1 | 81.2 | 51.7 | 60.5 |
| 11 | Liverpool | 90.9 | 68.8 | 46.2 | 55.9 |
| 12 | Broadstairs | 94.5 | 51.5 | 47.2 | 51.6 |
| 13 | Lincoln | 54.7 | 61.6 | 74.4 | 49.8 |
| 14 | Ipswich | 52.2 | 57.0 | 66.1 | 45.8 |
| 15 | Brighton | 65.0 | 50.7 | 57.1 | 45.4 |
| 16 | Whitchurch | 44.7 | 78.3 | 33.5 | 43.2 |
| 17 | Lisburn | 69.8 | 46.5 | 46.5 | 43.0 |
| 18 | Manchester | 62.9 | 51.4 | 34.6 | 40.0 |
| 19 | Bristol | 52.0 | 55.4 | 41.4 | 39.8 |
| 20 | Reading | 47.6 | 43.5 | 54.9 |
37.8 |
Here’s a breakdown of the top cities in the UK where dating apps are seeing the most
action. If you’re living in or near these cities, you’ll want to be prepared for a busy app experience!
Exeter – A Bumble Hotspot
- Tinder: 107.9
- Hinge: 95.5
- Bumble: 124.6
Exeter takes the top spot for dating app activity, and Bumble leads the charge here. With
Bumble's unique approach, where women make the first move, Exeter residents seem to
be embracing the platform for serious connections. Tinder and Hinge also have strong
user bases, but it's Bumble that stands out in this vibrant city. If you’re in Exeter, make sure
your profile reflects your intentions, whether you’re after a long-term relationship or simply
connecting with new people.
2. Blackburn – The Tinder Town
- Tinder: 121.4
- Hinge: 89.1
- Bumble: 82.4
In Blackburn, Tinder is the app of choice. With the highest number of searches and
conversations for Tinder across all cities, it’s clear that this town prefers a fast-paced, fun
approach to dating. Although Hinge and Bumble still have active users, Tinder dominates
in this part of the UK. If you’re in Blackburn, prepare for a more casual, swipe-heavy
experience.
3. Cambridge – The Hinge Hub
- Tinder: 85.6
- Hinge: 104.3
- Bumble: 83.3
Known for its university and intellectual atmosphere, Cambridge residents seem to favor
Hinge, with the app seeing the most activity here. People in Cambridge appear to be
looking for deeper connections, and Hinge is perfect for that. If you’re in Cambridge, use
the app’s detailed profile features to showcase your personality and interests—intellectual
connections are a big draw here.
4. Penzance – The Bumble Boomtown
- Tinder: 43.2
- Hinge: 76.9
- Bumble: 153.8
In the quieter town of Penzance, Bumble rules. With the highest number of Bumble users
per capita, this coastal town stands out as a hotspot for women-first dating experiences.
If you’re in Penzance, Bumble is clearly the app to prioritize, so take advantage of its focus
on respectful, meaningful connections.
5. London – The Big Swipe City
- Tinder: 101.0
- Hinge: 99.1
- Bumble: 45.9
As the UK's largest city, London sees a balanced mix of all three major dating apps. Tinder
and Hinge are almost neck-and-neck in terms of activity, with Tinder being the go-to for
casual connections and Hinge attracting those looking for something more substantial.
Bumble sees lower activity here compared to the other two, but with such a wide variety of
people, London offers something for every type of dater.
Dating App Tips for Success in the UK
No matter where you are in the UK, these expert tips will help you make the most of Tinder,
Hinge, and Bumble:
1. Craft a Standout Bio
Your bio is the first thing people see—make it count! Focus on what makes you unique.
Share your hobbies, favorite activities, or fun facts about yourself. Keep it light, fun, and
avoid clichés like “just here for a good time.” A personal touch will always win.
Tip: Tailor your bio to match the vibe of the city you're in. For instance, in Cambridge, a
thoughtful and intellectual bio may attract like-minded individuals, while in Blackburn,
something playful might do the trick.
2. Choose Photos that Tell Your Story
Pick a mix of clear, high-quality photos that show different sides of your personality.
Include a close-up smile, a full-body shot, and a picture of you engaging in a hobby you
love. Showing yourself in action can be much more appealing than just a posed shot.
Tip: If you're in Exeter, consider including pictures that reflect the outdoorsy vibe of the
area, as many people here enjoy activities like hiking or beach days.
3. Start Conversations with a Twist
The key to getting responses is making your opening line interesting. Instead of just saying
“Hey,” use their profile to spark a conversation. Ask a thoughtful question, compliment
something unique about them, or even bring up something quirky to make them smile.
Tip: In cities like London, where people are often busy, a unique opening line can help you
stand out. Try referencing something about the city or their profile to show you've paid
attention.
4. Be Honest About Your Intentions
Be upfront about what you're looking for. Whether you're seeking something casual, a
serious relationship, or just new friends, honesty will help you find the right matches. It’s
much easier to find compatible people when everyone’s clear about their expectations.
Tip: In Penzance, where Bumble users prefer meaningful connections, it’s especially
important to be clear about your relationship goals to avoid wasting anyone's time.
5. Respect the Process
Remember that not every match will lead to a conversation, and not every conversation will lead to a date. If someone isn’t interested or doesn’t respond, it’s important to respect their boundaries and move on gracefully. There are plenty of fish in the sea!
Tip: In cities with high engagement like Exeter and Cambridge, you might encounter many
matches, but not all will be a perfect fit. Stay patient and respectful, and the right match
will come along.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re in Exeter, Blackburn, or London, the UK offers a wide variety of dating app
activity depending on the city you’re in. Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble each have their own
unique user bases and characteristics that make them popular in different parts of the
country. By understanding the trends in your area and following these dating app tips,
you’ll be better prepared
