In a notable shift from recent dating trends, healthcare professionals have become the most attractive potential partners for single Americans, according to a new survey. The findings suggest that the much-discussed "summer of the finance bro" may be fading, with 29% of respondents now favoring partners in caring professions.
The survey, conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by The League, polled 2,000 single Americans to explore how careers influence modern dating preferences. Doctors topped the list, with 26% of respondents ranking them as the most attractive career for a potential partner. This preference reflects a broader appreciation for professions that combine stability, intellectual rigor, and social impact.
### The VIPs (Very Irresistible Professions)
Healthcare professionals dominate the dating landscape, with nurses ranking as the third most attractive profession at 22%. This trend likely stems from a growing societal appreciation for healthcare workers, as well as the profession's blend of financial security, caregiving qualities, and intellectual challenge.
Education emerged as the second most attractive career sector, with 23% of respondents favoring educators. However, a significant gender gap was noted: 28% of men found educators desirable as partners, compared to only 19% of women. This suggests that men may place a higher value on nurturing qualities and careers dedicated to social impact.
### Challenging Stereotypes
The survey also challenges popular narratives about modern dating, particularly the appeal of "finance bros." Only 18% of women expressed a preference for partners in finance, placing financial careers below entrepreneurship (21%) and artistic professions (18%). This indicates that the perceived allure of finance professionals may have been overstated.
Legal professionals remained a strong contender, with 24% of respondents finding lawyers attractive. STEM fields also held steady appeal, with scientists (16%), pharmacists (15%), and technology professionals (14%) all ranking among the most desirable professions.
### Ambition and Financial Dynamics
Career ambition and financial dynamics play a significant role in dating decisions. A plurality of respondents (44%) preferred partners whose career ambition matched their own, while 34% welcomed partners with even greater ambition. Financial parity was also important, with 39% of respondents favoring equal earning power between partners. This preference was more pronounced among women, with 45% favoring equal earnings compared to 33% of men.
### Timing of Career Conversations
The timing of career-related discussions proved revealing. While 22% of singles prefer to discuss work values and aspirations before the first date, most bring up the topic during the date itself, typically around the 54-minute mark. Notably, 18% of respondents discuss their profession within the first half hour of a date.
"Transparency is more attractive than ever," says Rachel DeAlto, Dating Expert at The League. "Discussing careers and ambitions early in the dating process helps singles determine if they share similar values and life goals from the start."
### Work-Life Balance and Red Flags
Attitudes toward work-life boundaries are evolving, particularly among younger generations. Only 39% of Gen Z and 47% of millennials considered working during a first date a turn-off, suggesting a shift in perspectives on work-life integration.
Career-related red flags also emerged as a key concern. Chronic burnout (32%), excessive overtime (29%), and frequent job changes (25%) were identified as top deal-breakers. Additionally, 22% of respondents viewed being an "influencer" as a negative indicator in potential partners.
### Desired Career Values
When it comes to career attitudes, singles value passion (40%), work-life balance (34%), continuous learning (28%), collaboration (25%), and a desire to make a positive societal impact (21%). These qualities reflect a growing emphasis on shared values and mutual support in relationships.
"Shared aspirations and values are crucial for successful relationships," says DeAlto. "Careers can be a great example of that alignment. The key is to stay open to finding it in unexpected places."
### Most Attractive Careers for Potential Partners
1. **Healthcare** (doctors, nurses, therapists, etc.) – 29%
2. **Education** (teachers, aids, tutors, etc.) – 23%
3. **Emergency Response** (firefighters, EMTs, ER doctors/nurses, etc.) – 19%
4. **Law** (lawyers, police officers, etc.) – 18%
5. **Business** (marketing, sales, etc.) – 18%
6. **Science** (pharmacist, chemist, researcher, etc.) – 17%
7. **Tech** (data analysts, information technology, etc.) – 17%
8. **Finance** (investing, hedge fund managing, etc.) – 16%
### Most Important Career Values for Potential Partners
1. **Passion for their work** – 40%
2. **Work-life balance** – 34%
3. **Commitment to learning and improvement** – 28%
4. **Collaboration and relationship-building** – 25%
5. **Desire to make a positive societal impact** – 21%
6. **Competitiveness and drive for success** – 19%
7. **Environmental impact** – 15%
8. **Leadership and management skills** – 15%
9. **Innovation and boundary-pushing** – 15%
### Survey Methodology
The research was conducted online by Talker Research on behalf of The League between December 4 and December 10, 2024. The survey included 2,000 respondents (1,000 men and 1,000 women) who identified as single or casually dating.