Dating in New York: Love in the Concrete Jungle

Published: July 12, 2025 | Updated: Today

From the jazz clubs of Harlem to the rooftop bars of Brooklyn, New York has been setting the stage for iconic love stories since the 1920s. Today, it's home to 1.9 million singles looking for everything from subway crushes to lifelong partnerships.

Why NYC is a Singles Powerhouse

• 38% single population (highest among US metros)
• 72% open to dating expats (per our 2024 survey)
• 24/7 dating scene with 3AM bagel date options

Best Neighborhoods for Meeting People

Williamsburg, Brooklyn

The hipster heartland offers:

• Artisanal cocktail bars (House of Yes for creative singles)
• Sunday rooftop parties at Brooklyn Brewery
• Vintage flea markets (great conversation starters)

Lower East Side, Manhattan

Where finance meets creative:

• Singles nights at Piano's NYC
• Happy hour networking at The Magician
• Speakeasy dating at Attaboy

How to Meet Singles in NYC

1. Event-Based Dating

• The Skint - Curated events for young creatives
• Brooklyn Bowl - Music + mingling (try the "Flirt Lanes" event)
• Pianos NYC - Indie bands + singles nights (Tuesdays)

2. Best Dating Apps

3. Unconventional Spots

• Trader Joe's - The Union Square location is notorious for singles
• Dog runs - Try Tompkins Square Park if you have a pup
• Bookstores - Strand's rare book section sparks conversations