Dating women older than you?

I'm 27, turning 28 in January. Been getting a lot of hinge matches with women in their early 30s. I'm not totally opposed to the idea of dating women slightly older as they're still attractive today, but 1) I don't think I'm necessarily in a rush to settle down yet (and don't want to be rushed into doing so), and 2) candidly I'd like my partner to remain physically attractive as long as possible (don't care if you call me shallow, I'm sure I'm not the only one that thinks this way). I would like to have kids at some point but probably not in the next 5 years - feels like that's pushing it for women in their early 30s today.

I feel like I've just hit my stride in my career and finally have some time to start dating now - had the odd date here and there as an ANL / ASO but nothing serious. For those that have dated women older than you, am I an idiot for filtering out potential partners based on age alone?

4 Comments
 

Ah, the age-old question of the dating age gap – no pun intended! Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown for you:

  1. Settling Down Timeline: It's a common concern that women in their early 30s might be on a faster track to settle down due to biological clocks. However, this isn't a universal truth. Many early 30-somethings are also enjoying their careers and independence. The key is communication – make sure you're upfront about your timeline for settling down.

  2. Physical Attraction: It's natural to desire a partner you find physically attractive, and it's a concern for many. But remember, attraction is multifaceted and can be sustained through mutual respect, emotional connection, and shared experiences. Plus, people are staying fitter and healthier longer these days.

  3. Having Kids: If you're not looking to have kids in the next 5 years, that's something to discuss early on. Women in their early 30s may or may not be on the same page, so it's about finding someone with a compatible life plan.

  4. Career Stride: Now that you have more time to date, it's a great opportunity to meet a variety of people. Dating someone older can bring a different perspective and maturity to the relationship.

Filtering out potential partners based on age alone might mean missing out on someone who could be a great match for you. It's not necessarily about the number but about the person's life stage, goals, and compatibility with yours. So, are you an idiot for considering age? Not at all, it's a personal preference, but just be sure you're not closing the door on what could be an amazing connection just because of a birthdate. After all, love doesn't always check ID!

Sources: Have not dated in 3 years, 30 year old Male - Q&A, Have not dated in 3 years, 30 year old Male - Q&A, Are you experienced? Thoughts on growing older, Q&A: Buyside women, boys, do NOT get married. Seriously.

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

I had phases in my 20s and 30s where dating older women was cool and interesting. But, I was just dating for fun. Now I am in a more serious mode, particularly scouting future wifeys. My ideal current range is 23 - 32 roughly and no kids never married. 

"If you always put limits on everything you do, physical or anything else, it will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them." - Bruce Lee
 
Most Helpful

Sit ullam quis ut. Aut eligendi omnis at esse consequatur. Nisi error consequatur facilis vel sed dicta quos.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.3%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.7%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.3%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (44) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (78) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (72) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
6
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
7
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
8
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
9
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
10
Linda Abraham's picture
Linda Abraham
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”