Sectors

A study by Pew Research Center revealed that the use of online or mobile dating services is increasing. It's reported that 15 percent of American adults have used online dating services either via online dating sites or apps. 

Pew Research Center elaborated the study by further stating that 12 percent of the targeted population have ever used an online dating site. The percentage is up slightly from 9 percent in early 2013. However, the percentage of American adults who have ever used a dating app on their cellphone have increased significantly. From only 3 percent in early 2013, the percentage is now three times greater at 9 percent. In total, a previous report from early 2013 shown that the total percentage of American adults who have ever used online dating service, either sites or apps, is at 11 percent.

Entrepreneur noted that the research was conducted between June and July last year. In the form of phone interview surveys, the data collection involved more than 2,000 American adults, ranging from the age of 18 to 65+. 

The report categorized the age groups to six categories and analyzed them separately for different measures. The data reveals that compared to earlier studies, the two groups with the most increased online dating activity are the age group of 18-24 years old, and 55-64 years old. From only 10 percent in early 2013, now 27 percent young adults from 18-24 years old have ever used online dating services. For the age group of 55-64 years old, the percentage increased twofold, from 6 percent in 2013 to 12 percent in the recent study.

According to Tech Crunch, the study also revealed that personal safety remains a major concern in online dating. More than half women who have used online dating agree that the method is more dangerous than meeting people in person first. They share the concern with 38 percent of male online daters.

However, online dating is still gaining more popularity, with 62 percent online daters agreed with the statement that online dating helps people find a better match, and 80 percent agreed that it's still a good way to meet people. It's also considered as easier and more efficient, agreed by 61 percent online dates.

The research concluded that online dating apps are increasing in popularity for people who consider online dating. From the age group category, more adults from the age group of 18-24 years old and 55-64 years old are using online dating services with a significant increase over the last two years.