Modern dating can feel like walking through a maze where the walls keep shifting, and let’s face it—some people have an easier time than others. Society has made strides in many areas, but when it comes to dating, it’s still a breeze for men compared to women. From the expectations placed on women to the societal norms that still favor men, dating today can feel like a completely different game depending on your gender. So, let’s get into the reasons why men seem to have the upper hand when it comes to modern romance.
1. They Don’t Have To Worry About Feeling Safe On Dates
For many men, the idea of feeling unsafe on a date isn’t something that crosses their minds. They can meet up with someone new without the underlying fear of becoming a victim of violence or harassment. Women, however, often have to share their location with a friend, plan exit strategies, or even carry self-defense items just to feel a little more secure. This discrepancy means men can focus all their energy on enjoying the date rather than worrying about their personal safety. It’s a liberty that often goes unnoticed but plays a significant role in the dating experience.
This safety net also allows men to take more risks in their dating lives, like meeting strangers from dating apps without second-guessing. Women, on the other hand, weigh their options heavily, often overthinking and vetting potential dates with a fine-tooth comb. This societal imbalance adds an extra layer of stress for women, which can detract from the excitement and spontaneity that dating should ideally have. The ease of not carrying this burden is something many men may take for granted, further highlighting the disparity in the dating world.
2. They Aren’t Looked Down On For Being Single
While both genders can face questions about their single status, a 2023 American Perspectives Survey found that single women face greater societal pressure and judgment compared to single men. Men are often seen as more self-sufficient or career-focused when they remain single for extended periods. In contrast, women who are single long-term may face pity or judgment, with society often questioning their choices or ability to find a partner. This societal perception allows men to enjoy their singlehood without the same level of societal pressure or judgment. They can focus on personal growth, career advancement, or hobbies without the looming expectation of finding a partner.
Being free from these pressures means men can approach dating from a place of genuine interest rather than necessity or societal pressure. Women, however, may feel an implicit pressure to “fix” their single status, even if they are content with their current situation. The ability to be single without external pressure allows men to be more selective and content in their dating choices. This disparity in societal expectations further emphasizes the ease men experience in the dating world.
3. They Aren’t Judged On Their Appearance As Harshly
Men generally face less pressure to look a certain way compared to women in the dating scene. While both genders appreciate a well-groomed appearance, women are often expected to adhere to strict beauty standards that can be both time-consuming and expensive. Men can show up as they are, with minimal grooming, and still be considered attractive or acceptable. This means they have more freedom to present themselves authentically without the fear of harsh judgment based on their looks.
On the contrary, women often feel the need to invest in hair, makeup, outfits, and sometimes even cosmetic procedures to meet societal expectations. This double standard not only affects their self-esteem but also their wallets, according to Psychology Today. The added pressure can dampen the dating experience for women, making it more about meeting expectations than about genuine connection. The disparity in the level of scrutiny faced by each gender is another reason men have it easier when it comes to modern dating.
4. They Have More Dating Apps Catered To Them
Dating apps tend to have a higher male user base, often leading to more features that cater to men, according to CNET. This imbalance can make the dating app experience more competitive and stressful for women. Men, however, may find a wider selection of potential matches and features designed to enhance their user experience. This can make online dating feel like a playground with low stakes, where they have more freedom to explore and engage with potential partners.
Women, facing a high volume of messages and attention, might feel overwhelmed or objectified, which can detract from the fun of online dating. The ease with which men can navigate these platforms without facing the same level of scrutiny or expectation highlights the gender imbalance present in digital dating. The abundance of dating apps that cater to men’s preferences further illustrates the disparity in the dating landscape. This imbalance gives men additional advantages in the ease and enjoyment of the modern dating experience.
5. They Don’t Have To Worry About Biological Clocks
The concept of a “biological clock” is something men largely sidestep, whereas women often feel the pressure of time when considering family planning and career choices. Men can decide to have children later in life without facing the same societal or biological pressures as women. This flexibility allows men to prioritize other aspects of life, such as career or personal development, without the added pressure of a ticking clock. Women, on the other hand, often have to juggle these considerations alongside dating, which can lead to added stress and urgency. SMG Women’s Health discusses here how age impacts fertility differently for men and women.
The freedom from this biological pressure allows men to approach dating with a more relaxed attitude. Women, considering family planning timelines, may feel the need to assess potential partners more critically and quickly. This difference in how dating timelines are approached underscores another area where men experience an easier time in the dating world. The lack of a biological deadline allows men to date at their own pace without feeling rushed or pressured by external factors.
6. They Can Make The First Move Without Fear
Traditionally, men have been the ones to initiate romantic interest, and because of this long-standing norm, they experience less hesitation when making the first move. Society often applauds their assertiveness and confidence, rather than criticizing them for being too forward. Women, on the other hand, can be labeled as desperate or aggressive when they decide to take the initiative. This double standard leaves women feeling apprehensive about expressing their interest openly, which can be frustrating and limits their dating pool.
Men’s ability to make the first move without societal backlash offers them more opportunities to connect with potential partners. They don’t have to wait for the right moment or hope someone approaches them; they can take matters into their own hands comfortably. This proactive approach opens up more dating possibilities and lessens the anxiety tied to wondering if someone is interested. The privilege to act on their instincts without fear of judgment is a significant advantage men have in the dating game.
7. They Aren’t Pressured To Settle Down Quickly
Men receive more leniency when it comes to timelines for settling down, whereas women frequently face pressure to find a partner by a certain age. Society tends to view men as eligible bachelors at virtually any age, while women are often seen through a lens that diminishes with age. This societal expectation can push women into relationships they’re not ready for or interested in, just to meet the traditional timeline expectations. Men, however, have the luxury of taking their time to explore and figure out what they truly want in a partner.
This discrepancy allows men to date more leisurely and with less urgency, leading to potentially healthier relationship choices. Women, burdened by the “biological clock,” may feel rushed to commit even when they haven’t found the right person yet. The freedom from this societal pressure gives men an upper hand in the dating world, as they can focus on forming meaningful connections rather than adhering to a timeline. This freedom to date at their own pace is a luxury not afforded equally across genders.
8. Ghosting Has Fewer Consequences For Them

Ghosting, the act of disappearing without explanation, seems to have fewer social repercussions for men. When men ghost someone, it’s often perceived as a typical move, and they rarely face significant judgment or consequences. Women who ghost, however, can be labeled as cold or insensitive, facing more backlash for the same actions. This lack of accountability for men can lead them to treat dating more casually, knowing they can exit without much fuss if things don’t work out.
This disparity creates an imbalance in dating interactions, where women may find themselves being more cautious and considerate to avoid being labeled negatively. Men, on the other hand, can flit in and out of dating scenarios with little worry about their reputation. This freedom to ghost without stigma can contribute to a more carefree dating experience for men, who don’t have to navigate the same societal expectations for maintaining polite and considerate interactions. The differing consequences of ghosting are another example of how men have it easier in the dating arena.
9. They Face Less Criticism For Casual Dating
Society tends to be more accepting of men engaging in casual dating or “playing the field.” Men can juggle multiple dating partners without facing the same level of scrutiny or being labeled negatively. Women, conversely, often face judgment and are called derogatory names if they choose to date casually. This double standard gives men more freedom to explore their options without the fear of damaging their reputation.
The social leeway men experience allows them to experiment more with what they want in a partner without immediate pressure to commit. Women, dealing with societal labels, might feel forced into exclusivity to maintain a “respectable” image. This pressure can overshadow their own desires and impede their ability to enjoy dating freely. The relaxed attitude towards men’s casual dating habits is yet another facet of their advantageous position in the modern dating landscape.
10. They Aren’t Expected To Change Their Name
This is a seemingly small detail, but the expectation for women to change their last name upon marriage is a tradition that still lingers. Men typically don’t face this expectation, allowing them to maintain their identity without question. This tradition places an unnecessary gender-based expectation on women, who may feel pressured to alter a significant part of their identity. Men, meanwhile, can enter into relationships and marriages without the added layer of pressure to assimilate in such a personal way.
The freedom to keep one’s name and identity without question gives men another subtle but real advantage in the dating and relationship process. Women, however, often have to navigate the personal and sometimes legal complexities of a name change if they choose to marry. The societal expectation of women to alter their identity while men are free from such expectations is yet another layer where men have it easier. This traditional expectation adds to the aspects of dating where men experience more freedom and less societal pressure.
11. They Don’t Face The Pressure To Look Young Forever
Aging is often viewed differently for men and women, with society being more lenient towards men showing signs of aging. Men are often described as growing more distinguished with age, while women face pressure to maintain a youthful appearance. This societal double standard can mean that men feel less pressure to engage in anti-aging routines or cosmetic enhancements. Women, however, might feel compelled to invest in skincare, cosmetic procedures, and other age-defying treatments to adhere to societal beauty standards.
Men have the luxury of embracing their natural aging process without as much fear of judgment or decreased desirability. Women, constantly bombarded by youthful beauty ideals, may feel an added pressure to maintain a certain look to remain competitive in the dating scene. The relaxed standards for men regarding age and appearance highlight another aspect of dating where men have an easier path. This disparity allows men to date with confidence in their natural selves, further emphasizing the ease they experience in modern dating.
12. They Don’t Get Judged For High Standards
Men are often allowed to have high or specific standards when it comes to dating without facing much judgment. They can express preferences for certain traits or attributes in a partner without being labeled as “picky” or “unrealistic.” Women, however, may face criticism if they articulate specific standards, often being told they are too choosy or have unrealistic expectations. This societal acceptance of men’s dating standards allows them to be more assertive in their preferences without facing backlash.
The freedom to hold and express dating standards without judgment gives men more control over their dating lives. Women, navigating societal expectations, might feel pressured to compromise on their standards to avoid negative labels. This difference in how dating standards are perceived and accepted is yet another way men have it easier in the dating world. The ability to set and pursue one’s own criteria without societal interference highlights the disparity in dating experiences between genders.
13. They Don’t Have To Deal With Texting Double Standards
Texting and communication norms often come with a set of unwritten rules that can differ significantly for men and women. Men generally don’t face as much scrutiny for their texting habits, whether they choose to respond immediately or take their time. Women, however, are often judged more harshly for their texting behavior, facing labels like “clingy” if they text too frequently or “disinterested” if they’re slow to reply. This freedom in communication allows men to navigate dating conversations with less stress and fewer societal expectations.
The lack of pressure surrounding texting norms gives men an advantage in maintaining their natural communication style. Women, worried about the implications of their texting habits, might find themselves overanalyzing conversations or altering their behavior to fit societal expectations. This discrepancy in how communication is perceived adds another layer of ease for men in the dating process. The ability to communicate freely without fear of judgment underscores another way men have it easier in modern dating.
14. They Aren’t Judged For Their Relationship History
Whether they have a string of exes or a lack of serious commitments, men often face way less judgment regarding their past relationships. Society tends to view men’s relationship history with more neutrality, allowing them to date without the shadow of their past hanging over them. Women, however, might face more scrutiny, with questions about why past relationships ended or why they haven’t settled down yet. This difference in how relationship history is judged can impact the ease with which individuals approach new dating opportunities.
The ability to start fresh without the burden of past relationship judgments allows men to engage in new connections with a clean slate. Women, navigating societal perceptions, might feel pressured to explain or justify their dating history. This disparity highlights another area where men have the advantage in the dating world, with fewer societal expectations tied to their past. The freedom to embrace new relationships without the weight of former judgments underscores the ease men experience in modern dating.