Millennials and Gen X Lead Polyamory Adoption on Dating Apps

New user data from Sister Wives, a dating app focused on polyamory and ethical non-monogamy, indicates that millennials and Gen X users significantly outnumber Gen Z on the platform.

The analysis of 18,189 active users reveals that the 35–44 age group (primarily millennials) accounts for 38.2% of users, making it the largest segment. The 45–54 age group (Gen X) represents 20.8%, while Gen Z users aged 18–24 make up just 5.5%, the second-lowest participation rate after those aged 65 and older. Users aged 25–34 (spanning late Gen Z and younger millennials) comprise 27.8%. Overall, midlife daters show the highest engagement with polyamorous matchmaking.

The generational difference may stem more from life experience than inherent attitudes. Younger adults may still be navigating early relationships and feel less prepared for the complexity of multiple committed partnerships. University of Michigan professor Terri Conley and Kinsey Institute researcher Justin Lehmiller both noted that Gen Z tends to have shorter relationship histories and remains more influenced by traditional cultural messages favoring monogamy.

Gender patterns also vary by age. Across the platform, single men outnumber single women by an average margin of 22%. However, this gap nearly disappears among Gen Z users. Gen Z women show disproportionately higher interest in polyamory compared to women in older age groups. As users age, the proportion of single men increases, particularly in the 55–64 and 65+ brackets.

Sister Wives CEO Christopher Alesich, who with his wife Robyn has practiced polyamory since their mid-20s, pointed out that younger people may find managing multiple relationships overwhelming. In contrast, older users often bring greater emotional maturity and clearer expectations.