Online dating has evolved far beyond the basic swipe-left, swipe-right culture. And with over 2.9 billion users, Facebook has entered the dating scene in a big way. If you're looking for love or meaningful connections, Facebook Dating could be your next best option—especially with its "Dating Near Me" feature that helps you find matches in your local area.
Whether you're newly single, tired of traditional apps, or just curious, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about joining the dating app on Facebook, how to use the "Dating Near Me" feature, and tips for finding real connections online.
What Is Facebook Dating?
Facebook Dating is a built-in feature on the Facebook app—not a separate app. Launched in 2019, it’s designed to help users find potential romantic partners within the Facebook platform. It leverages Facebook’s massive data and network to offer matches based on your interests, events, groups, and mutual friends—without broadcasting it to your timeline.
Unlike other dating platforms, Facebook Dating is free to use and doesn’t require you to download anything extra. If you’re already on Facebook, you’re halfway there.
Why Use Facebook Dating?
Here are a few reasons why Facebook Dating is gaining popularity:
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It’s completely free – no hidden upgrades or premium tiers.
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Real profiles – less catfishing and fake accounts due to Facebook’s long-standing verification processes.
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Local dating – the “Dating Near Me” feature helps you meet singles nearby.
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Shared interests – match suggestions come from common likes, groups, and events.
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Secret Crush – lets you match with someone from your friend list without the awkwardness (they won’t know unless they add you too).
How to Join the Dating App on Facebook
If you're ready to get started, here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Open the Facebook App
You must be 18 years or older to use Facebook Dating. Open your Facebook app (available for Android and iOS), and tap the menu icon (three lines in the lower or upper right corner, depending on your device).
Step 2: Navigate to ‘Dating’
Scroll down the menu and tap “Dating”. If you don’t see it, use the search bar at the top of the Facebook app and type in “Dating.” Tap the result to get started.
Step 3: Create Your Dating Profile
This profile is separate from your main Facebook profile, so your activity on Facebook Dating won’t appear in your news feed or be visible to your friends (unless they’re also using Dating).
Fill out your profile with:
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Photos (you can import from your Facebook profile or upload new ones)
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Interests and lifestyle choices
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A short bio
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Relationship preferences (e.g., gender, distance, age range)
Step 4: Enable Location
Facebook Dating uses your phone’s GPS to help you find matches near you. To use the “Dating Near Me” feature effectively, make sure location services are turned on.
Using the “Dating Near Me” Feature
Once your profile is set up, Facebook Dating will automatically suggest matches in your area based on your location and preferences.
You can:
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Adjust the search radius (from a few miles to 100+ miles)
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Filter matches by age, height, religion, and more
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Prioritize people who share mutual interests or groups
This “Near Me” feature is especially helpful if you're interested in meeting someone face-to-face sooner rather than later. Whether you're in a small town or a big city, the app makes it easy to discover who's nearby and interested in connecting.
Privacy and Safety Tips
Online dating comes with its own set of risks, but Facebook Dating includes built-in safety features:
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Block or report profiles that feel suspicious or inappropriate.
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No screenshots – Facebook prevents screenshots in Dating to protect your privacy.
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Location sharing – You can share your live location with a trusted friend before a date using Messenger.
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Profile separation – Your Dating profile and regular Facebook profile remain separate. Your friends won’t be notified you're using Facebook Dating.
Still, it's smart to take precautions:
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Meet in public for your first few dates.
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Let a friend or family member know where you're going.
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Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
Tips for Getting Better Matches
Want to stand out and attract quality matches? Here are some tried-and-true tips:
1. Choose Clear, Friendly Photos
Upload 3–6 high-quality photos that reflect who you are—smiling, doing activities you enjoy, and a clear headshot go a long way.
2. Write a Thoughtful Bio
Be authentic. A good bio is short but meaningful. Share what you're passionate about, what makes you laugh, or what kind of connection you're looking for.
Example:
"Coffee lover, amateur guitarist, and world traveler. Looking for someone who enjoys deep conversations and bad puns."
3. Be Active
Log in regularly, respond to messages, and engage with the suggestions Facebook provides. The more active you are, the better your chances of finding a meaningful match.
4. Be Open but Honest
Stay open-minded about who you might connect with, but be clear about your boundaries and relationship goals. If you're only looking for something serious, don’t be afraid to say so.
Common Questions About Facebook Dating
Is Facebook Dating available in my area?
As of 2025, Facebook Dating is available in over 50 countries including the U.S., Canada, most of Europe, and parts of Asia and South America. You can check availability by trying to access it from the app.
Can I match with my Facebook friends?
Only through the “Secret Crush” feature. You can choose up to nine Facebook friends or Instagram followers you’re secretly interested in. If they add you too, it’s a match.
Is Facebook Dating better than Tinder or Bumble?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Facebook Dating is more community-based and free of charge, while apps like Tinder or Bumble offer broader features with paid upgrades. If you value authenticity and want to meet someone near you, Facebook Dating is definitely worth trying.
Final Thoughts: Is Facebook Dating Right for You?
If you’re already on Facebook, using Facebook Dating is a low-pressure, convenient way to start meeting new people—especially those nearby. You don’t need to build a whole new profile from scratch or download another app cluttering your phone.
From local matches to mutual interests, Facebook Dating is quietly powerful—and for many, a refreshingly straightforward way to find love.
Ready to take the leap? Open your Facebook app, tap on “Dating,” and start exploring the connections waiting just around the corner.
Love might be closer than you think.
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