If you’re looking for love—or maybe just a few fun dates—chances are you’ve already tried a few of the big-name dating apps. Tinder, Bumble, Hinge… yeah, we’ve all been there. But what if I told you that Facebook, yes, Facebook, has its own dating platform? And not only that—it’s built right into the app you probably already use every day.
Yep, Facebook Dating is a thing, and it’s actually a pretty solid option for meeting people, especially those nearby. Whether you’re new to the dating scene or just want to expand your options, getting started with Facebook Dating is easier than you might think.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—how to get into Facebook Dating, how to set up your profile, and most importantly, how to date people around you using this underrated feature. Let’s dive in.
Who Can Use Facebook Dating?
Good question. To use Facebook Dating, you need to meet a few basic requirements:
- You must be 18 or older.
- You need a Facebook account that’s at least 30 days old.
- You must live in a country where Facebook Dating is available (currently available in over 50 countries including the US, UK, Canada, and more).
And of course, you need to use the Facebook mobile app—it’s not available on the desktop version.
If you check all those boxes, you’re good to go.
How To Get Into Facebook Dating
Let’s get to the good stuff: actually accessing the feature.
Here’s how you do it:
1. Open Your Facebook App
Yep, just open the regular Facebook app on your smartphone. This feature won’t work on a computer or tablet browser.
2. Tap on the Menu (☰)
You’ll find this usually in the bottom-right corner on iPhones or the top-right corner on Androids.
3. Scroll Down and Look for “Dating”
You might have to scroll a bit, but you’ll eventually see an icon that says “Dating.” It’s usually marked with a heart symbol. Tap on that.
If you don’t see it, try updating your app or check if Facebook Dating is available in your region.
4. Set Up Your Dating Profile
This part is kind of fun. Facebook will offer to pull in information from your existing profile—photos, likes, location, etc.—but you can choose what you want to include. This is separate from your main Facebook profile.
You’ll be able to:
- Add photos
- Write a short bio
- Answer fun questions (like “What’s your idea of a perfect day?”)
- Set your gender, sexual orientation, and what you’re looking for
- Choose your preferred distance range and age range
Once you’re happy with your profile, hit confirm, and boom—you’re in!
How to Date People Around You on Facebook Dating
Okay, now that you’re officially inside Facebook Dating, let’s talk about how to actually meet people nearby. Because what’s the point of dating online if you can’t find someone to grab a coffee or see a movie with in real life, right?
Here’s how to narrow your options and meet people near you.
1. Set Your Location Preferences
When setting up your profile—or later on in settings—you can choose how far away potential matches can be. You can set your distance range anywhere from 1 mile up to 100 miles.
Want someone in your neighborhood? Set it to 5 miles. Want to meet people in the next city over? Expand the range.
Stick to around 15-25 miles if you’re serious about meeting up in person without too much travel hassle.
2. Use the “Events” and “Groups” Feature
This is one of the coolest things about Facebook Dating. Unlike other apps, Facebook already knows what events you’re interested in and what groups you’re a part of. You can opt to see potential matches who are attending the same events or are in the same groups as you.
Let’s say you’re part of a local hiking group or you RSVP’d to a live music event in your town—Facebook Dating can show you other singles who are going too. That’s already one thing you have in common.
3. Check Out “Secret Crushes”
This one’s optional but kinda fun.
If you’ve got someone on your regular Facebook or Instagram list that you’ve secretly had a thing for, you can add them to your Secret Crush list. If they also add you back, Facebook will let you both know. If they don’t, no one ever finds out. It’s discreet and harmless.
This feature can lead to some real-life dates with people you already know (but were too shy to ask out).
4. Match and Start Chatting
Just like other dating apps, you’ll get suggested matches based on mutual interests, location, and preferences. If you like someone, tap the heart. If you’re not feeling it, hit the “X.”
Once both people like each other—it’s a match! You can then message each other and start chatting directly in the app. No need to switch over to Messenger.
Tips for Making the Most of Facebook Dating
Now that you know how to get into Facebook Dating and find people around you, let’s talk strategy. You want to stand out and actually get dates, right?
Here are a few tips to make sure you’re putting your best foot forward.
1. Be Real in Your Profile
You don’t need a professional photographer, but choose clear, recent photos where you look like you. Include a mix of selfies, full-body shots, and pics doing things you enjoy. Avoid heavy filters—authenticity is attractive.
2. Write a Fun and Honest Bio
Skip the generic lines like “I love to laugh” or “Looking for my other half.” Instead, write something that shows personality. For example:
“Dog dad who loves hiking and late-night tacos. Looking for someone to share Spotify playlists and awkward dance moves.”
You see? Fun, specific, and gives people something to connect with.
3. Be Respectful (But Bold!)
Don’t overthink the first message. Mention something from their profile, ask a light question, or make a witty comment. And be bold—if the vibe is good, ask to meet up sooner than later. Virtual chats can only go so far.
4. Stay Safe
Always meet in public places and tell a friend where you’re going. Facebook doesn’t do background checks, so just use your common sense. If someone seems off, block and report them.
Pros and Cons of Facebook Dating
Let’s keep it real—no dating app is perfect. Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes Facebook Dating stand out (and where it falls short):
✅ Pros:
- Totally free (no paid upgrades needed)
- Integrated with events and groups for more natural matches
- No swiping fatigue—it’s slower paced and more intentional
- No awkward overlap with your main Facebook profile
- Matches are based on mutual interests and real-world connections
❌ Cons:
- Only available on mobile
- Still not as popular as other apps, so your match pool might be smaller
- You can’t change your location unless you actually move
- Limited search filters compared to apps like OkCupid
Still, for something that’s totally free and built into an app you already have, it’s definitely worth a shot.
What to Do If Facebook Dating Isn’t Showing Up
If you followed the steps above and still don’t see the Dating icon, don’t panic. Here are a few things to try:
- Update the Facebook app – Make sure you’re on the latest version.
- Check your age and location – You must be 18+ and in a supported country.
- Clear cache and restart the app – This sometimes helps the feature appear.
- Reinstall the app – A fresh install can reset hidden features.
Still nothing? It’s possible Facebook Dating isn’t rolled out in your region yet.
Conclusion
Absolutely. If you’re tired of the usual apps or just want to meet people in a more organic, interest-based way, Facebook Dating is 100% worth checking out.
It’s easy to use, free, and surprisingly effective at helping you find people in your area who actually have something in common with you. Plus, it doesn’t come with the pressure or performative vibes of other dating platforms.
So go ahead—dust off that Facebook app, give your profile a glow-up, and see who’s out there. Your next date might just be one heart-tap away.
Sign me up