Dating in Perth: Best Free Sites & Apps

Perth’s dating scene in brief

Perth is one of the most isolated big cities in the world, and that shapes its social life. Locals often stay close to the friends they made at school or uni, so newcomers sometimes find it takes longer to build a circle. The upside is a relaxed, outdoorsy lifestyle with long sunny days, a coastline of good beaches and the Swan River running through the middle of the city.

Mining and resources are a big part of the economy, and many people work fly-in fly-out (FIFO) rosters. If that is you, or your match, say so early: rosters affect when you can meet, and being upfront saves frustration. The University of Western Australia, Curtin, Murdoch and Edith Cowan bring in students, and hospitals, engineering firms and the public sector employ many professionals.

Sites and apps that fit Perth

The services in our Australia ranking all work in English. In a smaller market like Perth, a site focused on your age or goals can save you a lot of swiping:

• Serious relationship: eHarmony, with a compatibility questionnaire and free match suggestions; messaging is paid.
• Your 40s: 40sDating.
• Over 60: 60sDating.
• Educated professionals: Academic Singles.
• Casual: FWB (Friends With Benefits).

The free apps are Tinder, Hinge and Bumble, which all offer free chat with matches. Because Perth is spread out along the coast, a distance filter of a reasonable size helps you avoid matches on the other side of the metro area.

Where to meet people in Perth

Northbridge is the traditional nightlife area, just north of the CBD, with bars, clubs and late-night food. Leederville and Mount Lawley are calmer, with cafés, small bars and an independent cinema feel, good for a first drink. Fremantle has a port-town atmosphere, historic pubs, the markets and plenty of breweries, and many people make an afternoon of it.

For daytime dates, Kings Park is the obvious pick: city views, bush trails and lawns for a picnic. A swim or a walk at Cottesloe or Scarborough beach, a sunset by the Indian Ocean or a ride along the Swan River paths are all free. A day trip to Rottnest Island is a popular next step once things are going well.

Social sports, running and cycling groups, surf lifesaving clubs and Meetup events are a good way to break into Perth’s social circles. University clubs and sports teams are open to students and often to alumni.

Safety in Perth

Meet in a busy place the first time and plan your trip home, since public transport is limited late at night in many suburbs. Tell a friend where you will be. Never send money to someone you have not met, however convincing their story about being stuck on a mine site or overseas.

Which site fits you in Perth?

Every service works in English, so in Perth the choice depends mostly on your age, your schedule and how serious you are.

FIFO electrician, 31, based in Joondalup on a two-weeks-on roster

eHarmony lets you build matches at your own pace while you are on site. Free tip: mention your roster in your profile, then plan first dates for your weeks at home.

Curtin student, 22, living near Bentley

Tinder and Bumble give you free chat with other students and locals. Free tip: a sunset at Kings Park costs nothing and is an easy first meeting.

Accountant, 44, in Subiaco after a separation

40sDating puts you among people at the same stage of life. Free tip: suggest a walk around Lake Monger or a coffee in Subiaco on a weekend morning.

Widowed grandmother, 67, in Fremantle

60sDating is made for singles over 60. Free tip: the Fremantle Markets and the harbour are good, familiar places for a first meeting.

Dating in Perth: FAQ

Is dating in Perth hard for newcomers?

It can take time, because many locals have long-standing friend groups. Dating apps, social sport and clubs are the quickest ways to meet people.

What is the best dating site in Perth?

For a serious relationship, eHarmony is our top-rated site. 40sDating and 60sDating are good choices if you want to meet people your own age.

Which free dating apps work in Perth?

Tinder, Hinge and Bumble all let you chat with matches for free.

Where do singles go out in Perth?

Northbridge for nightlife, Leederville and Mount Lawley for quieter bars, and Fremantle for pubs and breweries.