If you’re tired of the swipe-left-swipe-right game and looking for something with more substance, Facebook Dating might be the low-key, no-fuss love solution you’ve been overlooking. Launched in 2019, Facebook Dating offers a refreshing twist on online dating, tucked right inside the app you already use to keep up with friends and family. But one question keeps popping up: “How do I get on Facebook Dating?” Don’t worry—we’re about to walk you through the exact steps to set it up and start connecting.
What is Facebook Dating?
Think of Facebook Dating as your secret dating space—separate from your main profile but powered by all the information that helps Facebook know you so well. It’s available to users who are 18 or older and have the most recent version of the app installed. Unlike other dating platforms, Facebook doesn’t require you to download a separate app. That’s right: it’s 100% free and seamlessly baked into the existing Facebook experience.
With over 2.9 billion monthly active users on Facebook (as of 2024), it’s not surprising that Facebook Dating is rapidly becoming a go-to for singles looking to meet someone real, whether that’s for casual fun or something more long-term.
Step 1: Update Your Facebook App
Before anything else, make sure your Facebook app is updated to the latest version. Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and hit that update button if needed. Without the latest version, the Dating feature may not show up.
Step 2: Locate the Facebook Dating Feature
Once your app is ready, open it up and tap on the three-line (☰) menu in the bottom-right corner (iOS) or top-right (Android). Scroll down until you see “Dating.” If it’s available in your region, you’ll see it listed as a feature. Tap it, and you’re one step closer to meeting someone special.
Step 3: Set Up Your Dating Profile
Your Facebook Dating profile is built separately from your main profile. This is a good thing—it means you have control over what people see. You’ll start by adding:
- Photos (you can import them from Facebook or your camera roll)
- Fundamental info like height, education, job, religion, etc.
- Prompts such as “What does a perfect day look like for you?”—which helps kickstart conversations
- Filters for who you’re interested in (age, location, gender, etc.)
Bonus: Facebook won’t show your dating profile to your current friends, and your dating activity stays private.
Step 4: Adjust Your Match Preferences
This is where you start tailoring your potential connections. Want to date someone within 25 miles? Looking for a non-smoker who loves hiking? Use the filters to fine-tune your match preferences. Facebook’s algorithm works with these settings and your interests (like the pages you follow or events you attend) to suggest matches.
Step 5: Start Matching and Messaging
Once your profile is live, you’ll be shown a lineup of potential matches. Tap the heart if you’re interested or the X to pass. If both people like each other, the chat opens up and the conversation begins. Unlike Messenger, Facebook Dating uses a separate inbox, so your dating convos stay in their own space.
Pro tip: Use your profile prompts to break the ice—ask about someone’s favorite travel destination or their go-to karaoke song!
Conclusion
Absolutely. If you’re already on Facebook, the transition into dating mode is smooth and stress-free. No subscription fees, no invasive ads, and no awkward crossovers with your friends list. Just authentic connections based on shared interests and mutual intent.
Whether you’re re-entering the dating world or just curious, Facebook Dating is a fantastic, low-barrier place to start. So go ahead—activate it today, set up your profile, and start meeting real people who could be just a few miles (or messages) away.
