Yep, you read that right. Dating apps are no longer just for singles or those casually dating, they’re also being used by married folks. While this might sound surprising, apps catering to married people have become increasingly popular. Whether it’s couples exploring consensual non-monogamy or people seeking something outside their marriage (for better or worse), these apps are out there and thriving. Here’s a rundown of some of the top dating apps specifically designed for married people.
OpenMinded
As its name suggests, OpenMinded is designed for couples or individuals in consensual non-monogamous relationships. This app is all about creating a judgment-free space where people can be honest about their needs and desires without fear of being shamed. Whether you're looking for polyamorous connections, swinging, or just an open relationship, OpenMinded helps married couples find other like-minded individuals who are interested in a variety of arrangements.
Feeld
Initially developed for threesomes, Feeld has evolved to cater to all sorts of relationship styles. Married couples can use it together or separately to explore their fantasies, whether that’s polyamory, kink, or simply a more flexible take on monogamy. It’s a bit more focused on fostering meaningful connections than just casual hook-ups, making it ideal for couples who want to explore together.
Gleeden
Gleeden markets itself as "the premier extramarital dating site." Originally started in France, it’s designed specifically for women who want to explore discreetly. It has a primarily female user base, giving women more control over the encounters they’re seeking. While not as globally recognized as some of the other apps, it has a loyal following of people looking to step outside their marriages with mutual discretion.
Seeking
Though not exclusively for married people, Seeking is popular among married folks looking for a sugar relationship dynamic or a more transactional approach to dating. It’s a place where successful (often married) individuals can meet younger people, or those interested in relationships that involve some kind of financial arrangement. If you’re in a marriage and seeking something a bit different, this app offers a way to explore that lifestyle.
Ashley Madison
If you're thinking about dating apps for married folks, Ashley Madison is the first that probably comes to mind—and for a reason. It’s one of the OGs in this space, originally known for facilitating discreet encounters for people in committed relationships, and is the subject of a self-titled series on Netflix. Whether you're in an open marriage, seeking adventure, or something else entirely, Ashley Madison's entire brand is built on "discretion"' and "secrecy." Just know that privacy is a huge concern here, so tread carefully.
Why Do These Apps Exist?
It’s a fair question. Why are married people turning to dating apps to begin with? While every relationship is different, there are a few recurring themes that come up:
- Non-Monogamy Is Real: More couples are becoming open to non-traditional relationship structures. For some, monogamy just doesn’t cut it, and they want to explore other connections while remaining committed to their spouse.
- The Spice of Life: Over time, some married couples feel like their relationship could use a little excitement, whether that means adding another person into the mix or simply dating outside of the marriage with consent.
- Secrecy and Infidelity: Not all of these apps are built around consensual arrangements. Some are used by people seeking affairs, plain and simple. Whether you agree with it or not, these apps cater to the demand.
Is It Healthy?
The short answer is, it depends. In relationships where both parties are on the same page and exploring open marriage or polyamory, these apps can be a tool to help foster communication and connection. But if secrecy and infidelity are in the mix, it can cause long-term damage. The key is transparency and mutual agreement. Whatever your reason, it’s important to keep your mental and emotional well-being in check.
The world of dating apps has evolved far beyond what many have expected. From apps catering to specific communities and desires to those that challenge traditional norms, there’s something out there for everyone, including married people. Whether these apps will become more mainstream or remain on the fringes of the dating world, one thing’s for sure: modern relationships are more complex and fluid than ever.
