AAPI Daters Prioritize Cultural Compatibility, CMB Survey Shows

A new study by dating app Coffee Meets Bagel (CMB) reveals that cultural background and understanding play a major role in relationships for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) singles.

The survey found that 88% of AAPI daters say culture matters when choosing a partner, compared to 67% of non-AAPI respondents. Nearly half (45%) of AAPI daters consider cultural background “very important,” more than double the rate among non-AAPI daters.

Despite this emphasis, cultural misunderstandings remain common. Over half (52%) of AAPI respondents reported feeling culturally misunderstood in a relationship, and 1 in 3 (33%) said they have ended a relationship due to cultural differences. Additionally, 73% of AAPI daters said conversations about culture arise within the first few dates.

The study also examined what AAPI daters prioritize in partners. Shared values such as family, lifestyle, and long-term goals were ranked highest (89%), followed by respect for family traditions and shared cultural understanding. When asked what makes them feel most understood, 83% said emotional connection increases when a partner understands their cultural background, while 60% noted it helps partners grasp their experiences without constant explanation.

Food emerged as a significant element in AAPI dating experiences. 72% of respondents said food plays a meaningful role in their dating lives, and 50% viewed it as one of the best ways to bond on a date. Many reported sharing their culture through cooking or introducing traditional cuisines.

The research also showed that 82% of AAPI daters find cultural curiosity attractive in a partner, suggesting openness matters even in cross-cultural relationships. Quincy Yang, CEO of Coffee Meets Bagel US, noted that AAPI daters are seeking partners who make them feel seen and respected, rather than necessarily dating within the same ethnicity.