Sober dating is skyrocketing in popularity among singles, whether they are in recovery or testing out what dry dating is all about. Being on a date without an alcoholic beverage in your hand might sound scary, but it’s better than being sorta fuzzy about what happened on said date or waking up with a hangover the day after!
More and more people are finding that real connections are better without being under the influence, so it’s no wonder that there are dedicated dating apps for sober singles. Think about it—no more wondering what you said or did on the date or trying to figure out if it was the drunk you talking instead of the real you.
We want to focus on the world of sober dating and explore the top 5 sober dating apps for 2024. These apps are perfect for those who are already sober or just want to find love without relying on a little liquid courage. We’ve handpicked these sober dating sites and/or apps based on the following criteria:
- User Base: Lots of singles looking for sober connections.
- Features: Extras that make dating easier and more fun.
- Success Stories: Real couples who found each other on these apps.
- User Reviews: Honest and real feedback from those who’ve used them.
Let’s find out the best options for finding love without a drink in sight—unless it’s a mocktail!
Why Choose Sober Dating Apps?
Finding a real connection is hard enough—and it’s harder in a world where socializing usually revolves around alcohol. Sober dating apps are an alternative for those looking to build romantic relationships without any influence from alcohol. Whether you’re recovering from addiction or simply want to date without drinking, these apps cater to a growing call for real and clear-headed connections!
The Rise of Sober Dating
Sober dating is picking up traction as people, especially younger generations, are increasingly prioritizing health and realness in their relationships. If you’re in recovery from alcohol addiction or just exploring an alcohol-free lifestyle, aka dry dating, sober dating apps are a new way to connect with others who are on the same page. These platforms cater to a growing community that wants clarity and real interaction over any influence from drinking.
Benefits of Sober Dating
Sober dating has lots of obvious advantages, making it an attractive option for singles!
- Clarity in Relationships: Conversations and interactions are much more genuine and clear-headed without the influence of alcohol, leading to better connections.
- Healthier Lifestyles: Embracing sober dating matches up with a commitment to overall wellness, supporting both physical and mental health.
- Focus on Real Connections: Without alcohol as a social crutch, people can focus on building better, stronger relationships based on common interests and principles.
- Support for Recovery: For those in recovery from alcohol addiction, sober dating apps provide a safe spot to meet others who understand and respect their journey, which creates supportive and healthy romantic relationships.
Criteria for Selecting the Top 5 Sober Dating Apps
Selecting the best sober dating apps involves considering user base size, innovative features, and real user experiences. These factors help make sure the apps meet the needs of sober singles, offering a supportive and fun platform for finding love without alcohol.
User Base and Popularity
Having a large and active user base is important for any dating app, but it’s really important for sober dating sites and apps. A diverse and engaged community increases the chances of finding compatible matches with the same sobriety commitments. A well-populated app also offers a variety of interactions and support, making the dating experience better and more rewarding!
Novel Features
Sober dating apps distinguish themselves with unique features tailored to the needs of sober singles. Here are some innovative features that these apps offer:
- Sobriety Support: Tools like sobriety date tracking and progress sharing help users maintain their commitment and connect with others on a similar journey. This includes daily motivational tips and tracking of sobriety milestones.
- Community Events: Listings of local and virtual sober events provide opportunities for users to meet in safe, alcohol-free settings. These events range from social gatherings to educational workshops, enhancing the sense of community and support.
- Compatibility Quizzes: Detailed quizzes that assess lifestyle choices, interests, and sobriety goals help users find matches who share their outlook and experiences.
- Anonymous Profiles: To verify privacy and comfort levels, users can create anonymous profiles. This allows them to explore the app and make connections without initially revealing too much personal info.
- Virtual Sober Dates: Some apps facilitate virtual sober dates, allowing users to connect and interact in a controlled, sober environment before meeting in person.
- Sobriety and Addiction Mentors (SAM): Some platforms offer mentorship programs where experienced sober individuals provide guidance and support to those newly sober or struggling with sobriety.
- Boozeless Guides: These guides offer recommendations for alcohol-free events, restaurants, and travel destinations, providing users with safe and enjoyable options for their dates.
Success Stories and User Reviews
Real user experiences and success stories are also super important for evaluating the effectiveness of dating apps—they give much-needed info about how well the app facilitates connections and supports its users. Positive reviews and testimonials illustrate the app’s ability to create a supportive community and help users find genuine connections. Feedback from users also highlights the importance of combining dating features with sobriety support to make users feel understood and respected while searching for romantic partners.
Top 5 Sober Dating Apps
With the rising popularity of sober lifestyles, people are turning to sober dating sites to find romantic connections sans alcohol. These apps we chose provide a supportive environment for those in recovery or simply choosing a dry lifestyle. Look below for an overview of the best sober dating apps for 2024!
Single and Sober
Single and Sober is a niche dating app that is tailored for people who prioritize sobriety in their lives. Launched to create a community for sober singles, this app is picking up steam in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia. It offers a place where members can connect based on common experiences and a commitment to a sober lifestyle.
Features
Single and Sober comes equipped with several features that are designed to create connections:
- Profile Customization: Users can create detailed profiles highlighting their sobriety milestones and personal journeys. This allows for a better understanding and connection right from the beginning.
- Sobriety Milestones: Members can share their sobriety milestones, celebrating important personal achievements with the community.
- Sober Events: The app organizes events specifically for sober people, providing opportunities to meet and interact in a supportive environment without alcohol pressure.
User Experience
Single and Sober user reviews highlight the supportive community and ease of use as major pros—users appreciate the focus on sobriety and the understanding environment the app fosters. Success stories are common; many find solid relationships and friendships through the platform. Testimonials often mention the relief of not having to explain their sober lifestyle, as everyone on the app shares similar principles!
Why It’s Great
Single and Sober makes its mark due to its dedicated focus on the sober community. Unlike mainstream dating apps where sobriety might be a small checkbox, Single and Sober centers the entire experience around living an alcohol-free life. This focus creates a safe and understanding space for users to connect in a genuine manner. Including features like sobriety milestones and sober events furthers its appeal, making it a go-to for those serious about staying sober while dating and looking for love.
Clean and Sober Love (CASL)
Clean and Sober Love, also known as CASL, was launched in 2017 by Joaquin Barreda, who has been sober for eight years and wanted to create a platform that supports sober individuals in finding love and companionship. CASL is designed specifically for those who are committed to sobriety and wish to connect with others who share this important lifestyle choice. The app currently has over 30,000 members, creating a dedicated community for sober singles.
Features
CASL offers several features that cater to the distinct needs of the sober community:
- Video Profiles: Users can create video profiles to introduce themselves more personally and engagingly, helping foster genuine connections from the start.
- Sobriety Support Groups: The app includes support groups where members can share their experiences, offer advice, and encourage each other. This feature helps create a supportive environment that extends beyond dating.
- Daily Check-ins: CASL encourages users to check in daily, promoting accountability and helping members stay focused on their sobriety goals. These check-ins can include sharing milestones or simply updating their status.
User Experience
User reviews for CASL are mixed but lean towards positive for its supportive community and sobriety-focused features. Most members appreciate the app’s dedication to fostering genuine connections in a sober environment. Success stories highlight the effectiveness of CASL in helping members find meaningful relationships. However, some users have noted technical issues and a smaller user base compared to mainstream dating apps, which can limit potential matches.
Why It’s Great
What sets CASL apart from other dating apps is its unwavering focus on sobriety and the unique needs of those in recovery. By providing features like video profiles, sobriety support groups, and daily check-ins, CASL creates a holistic environment that supports not just dating but overall well-being. This dedicated approach helps users feel understood and respected, making CASL a standout choice for sober singles looking to build meaningful connections.
Sober Dating
Sober Dating is designed to help those committed to sobriety find meaningful relationships. The app caters to individuals who want to date without the influence of alcohol, providing a safe and supportive platform. Sober Dating is not just for those in recovery but also for individuals choosing a sober lifestyle for various reasons, including health and wellness.
Features
Sober Dating includes a variety of features that enhance the dating experience for its users:
- In-App Sobriety Resources: The app offers a wealth of resources to help users stay committed to their sobriety. This includes tips, articles, and guides on maintaining a sober lifestyle, making it more than just a dating app but a supportive community.
- Virtual Sober Dates: Understanding the importance of safe and alcohol-free interactions, Sober Dating facilitates virtual sober dates. This feature allows users to connect and interact in a controlled, sober environment before meeting in person.
- Community Forums: The app includes forums where users can share their experiences, seek advice, and support each other. These forums help build a strong community bond and provide a space for users to discuss their journeys and challenges in sobriety.
User Experience
User reviews of Sober Dating highlight both its strengths and areas for improvement. Users appreciate the app’s focus on sobriety and the supportive community it fosters. Success stories are plentiful, with users finding meaningful relationships and friendships through the app. However, some users have reported technical issues and a desire for more interactive features and profile prompts to enhance the user experience.
Why It’s Great
Its comprehensive approach to supporting sobriety sets Sober Dating apart from other apps. Beyond just facilitating romantic connections, the app provides extensive resources and a community supporting users in their sobriety journey. Including virtual sober dates and community forums creates a holistic environment where users can connect, share, and grow together. This dedicated focus on sobriety and community makes Sober Dating a great choice for those looking to find love and support in a sober setting.
Club Pillar
Club Pillar is a brand new dating app that hopes to revolutionize the sober dating scene. Founded by Leah McSweeney, a streetwear pioneer and a former The Real Housewives of New York Bravo TV star, Club Pillar is designed for those who are completely sober, sober-curious, or looking to cut back on their alcohol consumption. The app addresses the unique challenges faced by sober singles in the dating world, providing a dedicated platform for those committed to a sober lifestyle. McSweeney has been vocal about her struggles with alcohol and dating, which is why she launched the Club Pillar.
Features
Club Pillar has a few innovative features to support its users:
- Anonymous Profiles: To guarantee privacy and a level of comfort, users can create anonymous profiles. This allows them to explore the app and make connections without initially revealing too much personal information.
- Sober Match Algorithms: The app uses sophisticated algorithms to match users based on their sobriety preferences and lifestyle choices, increasing the chances of finding compatible partners who share similar principles.
- Local Sober Meetups: Club Pillar organizes local meetups for its members, providing opportunities to connect in person in a safe and supportive environment. These events help build a sense of community and make it easier to meet potential partners IRL.
User Experience
User feedback on Club Pillar has been mainly positive, especially regarding its focus on sobriety and the supportive community it creates. Reviews highlight the app’s effective matching system and the value of its anonymity feature. Success stories stress how users have found romantic partners who respect and share their commitment to a sober lifestyle. However, just like with all new apps, some technical issues have been reported, like occasional bugs and a call for more beneficial features.
Why It’s Great
What makes Club Pillar an excellent choice for sober dating is its unwavering focus on sobriety and the specific needs of sober individuals. The app not only facilitates romantic connections but also fosters a supportive community through local meetups and comprehensive matching algorithms. By creating a space where users can feel understood and respected, Club Pillar provides a valuable service to those looking to date without the complications of alcohol.
LOOSID Dating
LOOSID is a stellar app in the sober dating world designed to help those committed to sobriety find connections. Launched as part of the broader LOOSID sober community platform, this app caters to those who want to date without the influence of alcohol. It serves not only as a dating app but also as a comprehensive support network for those living a sober lifestyle!
Features
LOOSID has several features that elevate the sober dating experience:
- Sobriety Date Tracking: This feature allows users to track their sobriety dates and share their progress with potential matches, fostering transparency and mutual understanding.
- Compatibility Quizzes: To help users find the best matches, LOOSID includes detailed quizzes that assess compatibility based on lifestyle choices, interests, and sobriety goals.
- Sober Event Listings: LOOSID regularly updates a list of sober events, both virtual and in-person, where users can meet in a safe, alcohol-free environment. These events range from social gatherings to educational workshops, all designed to support a sober lifestyle.
User Experience
Users generally have positive feedback about LOOSID, particularly praising its focus on the sober community and its comprehensive support features. Users like the app’s combination of dating and sobriety support, which helps them feel understood. Success stories show how LOOSID has facilitated connections that go beyond dating, creating a network of friends and partners who share similar interests and experiences. Some users have reported occasional technical glitches and would like the app to integrate more interactive features.
Why It’s Great
LOOSID is notable for its dual focus on dating and sobriety support. By integrating sobriety date tracking, compatibility quizzes, and sober event listings, the app creates a comprehensive environment for users to connect and thrive. The community-centric approach helps users find romantic connections and a network of support that reinforces their commitment to sobriety. This holistic approach makes LOOSID a top choice for those looking to navigate the dating world while maintaining a sober lifestyle.
Standout Box:If you’re looking for a bigger pool of potential matches beyond the sober-specific dating apps, you may want to check out a dating platform like eharmony! This renowned app has insanely advanced filtering options, so you can tailor your search to find exactly what you want in a romantic partner. It doesn’t matter if you’re set on dating someone who’s also sober or open to different lifestyles, eharmony’s dating profiles, detailed questionnaire, and matching algorithms can help you meet your match!
Tips for Success on Sober Dating Apps
Sober dating is truly a different experience when you’re used to dates involving drinking! But don’t be afraid—it makes dates better. Below are some tips that can help you make the most out of sober dating apps and build up real connections.
Creating an Authentic Profile
Your profile is your first impression, so make it count. Here are some tips to create an engaging and genuine profile:
- Be Honest About Your Sobriety: Clearly state that you are sober and looking for someone who shares or respects that lifestyle. This sets clear expectations from the start.
- Mention your journey briefly. It doesn’t have to be your entire life story, but sharing why sobriety is important to you can attract like-minded people. For example, “I’ve been sober for three years, and it’s the best decision I’ve made. I’m looking for someone who appreciates a clear-headed lifestyle.”
- Highlight Your Interests: Share your hobbies and interests. Whether you enjoy hiking, cooking, or reading, include these in your profile to attract like-minded people.
- Include specifics that can spark conversation, like “I love cooking Thai food” or “I’m into hiking and exploring new trails on weekends.” This helps potential matches see common ground and makes it easier to start conversations.
- Use Good Photos: Use recent and clear photos representing your identity. Include a mix of headshots and full-body pictures, and try to feature yourself in different settings or activities.
- Avoid overly filtered photos. Authenticity is vital, so choose pictures that show your genuine self. Group photos are okay, but make sure you have solo shots so potential matches know who they’re connecting with and don’t have to play a guessing game!
- Write a Genuine Bio: Be yourself in your bio. Write conversationally and share a bit about your journey, what you’re looking for in a partner, and what makes you happy.
- Don’t be afraid to be a bit quirky or funny if that’s your personality. “I’m a big fan of dad jokes and can make a mean spaghetti bolognese.”
- Use Humor: If humor is a big part of your personality, don’t be afraid to show it. A light-hearted joke or a fun fact can make your profile more memorable.
- Something simple like, “Professional dog herder and aspiring Gordon Ramsay. We’ll get along great if you can quote Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.”
Engaging with Matches
Starting and keeping convos going on all dating apps, sober or otherwise, is the biggest part of building connections. Here’s how you can do this successfully:
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: These types of questions encourage detailed responses and help keep the conversation flowing. For example, ask about their favorite travel destination or what they enjoy doing on weekends.
- Instead of “Do you like traveling?” try “What’s the best place you’ve ever visited and why?” Open-ended questions show genuine interest in the other person’s experiences and opinions.
- Be Supportive: Show genuine interest and support in their journey. Sharing experiences about sobriety can create a bond and make both parties feel understood.
- Compliment their achievements. “That’s amazing that you’ve been sober for two years! What has been the most rewarding part for you?” Sharing your own milestones can also encourage a deeper connection.
- Stay Positive: Keep the conversation positive and uplifting. Focus on what you’re passionate about and what excites you.
- Discuss future plans and dreams. “What’s something you’re looking forward to this year?” Avoid bringing up negative past experiences early on.
- Swap Stories: Share interesting or funny stories about your life. This will make the conversation more engaging and allow your match to get to know you better.
- Personal anecdotes about hobbies or travels can be great icebreakers. “I once got lost in a museum and ended up getting a private tour from a security guard.”
- Be Patient: Building a connection takes time. Don’t rush the conversation; let it develop naturally.
- If someone doesn’t respond immediately, give them space. Not everyone is constantly online. Remember, good things take time. Try to enjoy the process of getting to know someone new!
Planning Sober Dates
Finding fun and interesting sober date ideas can enhance your dating experience. Here are 15 fun suggestions that don’t involve alcohol!
- Visit a Museum or Art Gallery: Explore exhibits and discuss your favorite pieces. Museums provide a great backdrop for conversation and learning new things together, and art galleries can kick off chats about different perspectives and tastes.
- Go to a Botanical Garden: Enjoy the beauty of nature and have a peaceful walk. Botanical gardens are perfect for a relaxing and visually stimulating date. You can learn about different plant species and enjoy a calm environment.
- Take a Cooking Class: Learn to make new dishes together and enjoy a meal you’ve cooked yourselves. Cooking classes are interactive and fun; you can enjoy the food at the end! It’s a great way to bond over a shared activity.
- Take a Yoga or Fitness Class: Share a healthy activity that boosts your well-being. Yoga classes can be relaxing and invigorating, perfect for a stress-free date. Fitness classes are great for those who love to stay active and healthy.
- Visit a Farmer’s Market: Shop for fresh produce and perhaps plan a meal together. Farmer’s markets offer a lively vibe with plenty of things to see and taste. And it’s a chance to support local farmers and try new foods.
- Go to a Local Festival: Attend a cultural or food festival and enjoy the various activities and performances. Festivals are lively and full of energy, offering plenty of entertainment options. They’re great for exploring new cultures and trying different foods.
- Go Hiking or Walking in Nature: Enjoy the great outdoors and converse while walking. Hiking provides a healthy way to spend time together and enjoy beautiful scenery. Nature walks are perfect for peaceful, uninterrupted conversations.
- Visit an Aquarium or Zoo: Discover different species and enjoy a fun, educational day out. Aquariums and zoos are both educational and entertaining, making them great date spots. They offer plenty of opportunities for interesting discussions about animals and conservation.
- Take a Dance Class: Learn a new dance style together and have fun with the experience. Dance classes are a fun way to break the ice and get physically active, and learning something new together can be a bonding experience.
- Have a Picnic in the Park: Prepare a picnic with your fav foods and partake in a chill meal outdoors. Picnics are simple and romantic, allowing for a calm and intimate setting. You can bring homemade dishes and enjoy the fresh air.
- Go to a Comedy Show: Laugh together at a live comedy performance. Comedy shows provide a fun and light-hearted date environment. Laughter can be a great way to break the ice and feel more comfortable.
- Visit a Planetarium: Explore the stars and planets in a fascinating environment. Planetariums offer a unique and educational experience, and they’re a great way to spark conversations about space and science.
- Try a Pottery or Art Class: Get creative and make something unique together. Art classes allow for creativity and can be a lot of fun. Pottery classes, in particular, can be very hands-on and memorable.
- Volunteer Together: Spend time giving back to the community at a local charity or event. Volunteering is a rewarding way to spend time together and make a difference. It shows compassion and a common interest in helping others.
- Visit a Science Center or Interactive Museum: Engage with interactive exhibits and learn something new. Science centers are full of interesting exhibits and hands-on activities. They’re perfect for curious minds and can lead to great conversations.
Conclusion
We’ve covered the 5 best sober dating apps for 2024, and each one has different features and a supportive community for singles—they connect with others who value sobriety just as much as you do!
And the benefits of sober dating? Well, they’re as lucid as an alcohol-free date is:
- Clarity in Relationships: Honest, straightforward interactions without any influence from alcohol.
- Healthier Lifestyles: A commitment to overall wellness.
- Focus on Real Connections: Building bonds based on common principles and experiences.
If you are in recovery or just tired of drinking and dating, you should def check out these sober dating apps!
There is so much more to discover about others when you do so with a clear head—alcohol-free connections are the best kind! Not only does it have a positive impact on your own personal growth, but it will do wonders for your romantic relationships. And as a bonus—no hangovers!
Additional Resources
Looking for some more info about sober dating and how you can stay sober while dating and in relationships? Check out the helpful resources and articles below!
- Guide to Sober Dating
- Sober Dating: What it is & Tips for How to Get it Right
- A Guide to Romantic Relationships in Recovery
- How to Navigate Sober Dating
- Are You Ready for ‘Dry Dating?’ Here Are Some Tips
- All About The ‘Dry Dating’ Trend And Why You Might Like To Try It
- Dating in Recovery: How to Get Started
