The Best Dating TV Shows of the Last Few Years, Ranked

Finding love on television has never been more varied or more fun to watch. From heartfelt connections to messy mixers, the latest wave of dating shows keeps reinventing the format with new twists, fresh casts, and trips around the world. Whether you live for grand gestures or you prefer awkward first dates that feel painfully real, there is truly something for every mood.

This list brings together buzzy newcomers and clever reinventions that defined the past few years. Some lean sweet and sincere, others go big on games and strategy, and a few are unapologetically chaotic. Queue up your favorites and discover a few new obsessions along the way.

‘The Courtship’ (2022)

A Regency fantasy meets modern dating in this lavish series that drops one leading lady and her suitors into a world of stately manors and ballroom lessons. The setup is playful and escapist, with chaperones offering pointed advice while suitors attempt to stand out through etiquette and charm.

What makes it enjoyable is how earnestly the cast commits to the bit. The old world setting heightens every flirtation and misstep in a way that feels wholesome and theatrical rather than cynical, which gives the show a distinct identity.

‘Too Hot to Handle’ (2020)

A group of flirty singles arrives ready for a beach fling only to learn that intimacy will cost them prize money. The rule twist forces everyone to talk about feelings and self control, which leads to funny loopholes and honest conversations.

The allure is obvious. Beautiful scenery, big personalities, and a running tally keep the stakes clear while growth arcs sneak up on you by the finale.

‘Love Island USA’ (2019)

Singles pair up in a sunny villa where new arrivals, public votes, and surprise recouplings keep everyone on their toes. It moves fast with daily episodes that blend romance, rivalry, and playful challenges.

The charm lies in the hangout energy. You watch bonds form in real time, cheer for favorite pairs, and gasp when fate or a bombshell shakes everything apart.

‘Back in the Groove’ (2022)

Confident women check into a resort to meet younger men who match their spark and ambition. The tone is supportive rather than snarky, with the cast encouraged to state what they want and to have fun while doing it.

It thrives on honesty and chemistry. The dates feel relaxed, the conversations feel adult, and the vibe is all about pursuing joy without apology.

‘The One That Got Away’ (2022)

Contestants are reunited with missed connections from their past, from school crushes to former coworkers. The concept taps into the what if question that lingers for many people and invites viewers to root for closure or a second chance.

The structure keeps things lively as new arrivals step through a glowing portal and instantly shift the balance. Emotions run high because the history is real, which makes every decision land harder.

‘The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On’ (2022)

Couples at a crossroads agree to a bold experiment where they date others to test what they truly want. The format sparks frank talks about trust, timelines, and compatibility.

It is addictive because the stakes feel personal. You see people weigh comfort against growth and watch revelations surface when routines get disrupted.

‘Perfect Match’ (2023)

Familiar faces from different reality series share a mansion and try to form the strongest couple. Strategic matching powers and nightly reshuffles turn romance into a game that rewards both chemistry and savvy alliances.

The fun comes from the crossover energy. Personalities bounce off one another in unexpected ways and the house politics create constant movement without losing the dating core.

‘Love Is Blind’ (2020)

Singles date in separate pods where they talk without seeing each other and decide whether to get engaged sight unseen. The premise strips away distractions and amplifies communication in a way that feels both daring and surprisingly tender.

The journey from pods to the real world delivers big swings. You get sweeping declarations, tough family dinners, and the ultimate question of whether emotional connection can carry through everyday life.

‘Indian Matchmaking’ (2020)

A matchmaker guides clients through profiles, face to face meetings, and family expectations while explaining the nuances of tradition and modern choice. The series is observational and thoughtful, letting conversations breathe.

It is compelling because it respects the process while still embracing humor. You meet memorable clients, learn about preferences and compromises, and see how culture shapes love without flattening anyone into a stereotype.

‘Jewish Matchmaking’ (2023)

With warmth and wit, a matchmaker works across cities and denominations to help clients find partners who align with their values. The show balances personality with practicality, highlighting what matters most to each person.

What stands out is the open dialogue about faith, lifestyle, and boundaries. Dates feel intentional and the results are as charming as they are enlightening.

‘FBoy Island’ (2021)

Three women try to sort nice guys from self proclaimed players while prize money and twists keep motives murky. The tone is cheeky and self aware, poking fun at the genre while still delivering real sparks.

The guessing game is the hook. Confessionals, reveals, and redemption arcs make it a breezy watch with a smarter edge than you might expect.

‘The Ultimatum: Queer Love’ (2023)

Long term couples in the queer community take on the same bold experiment with fresh dynamics and perspectives. The cast brings vulnerability and humor to weighty talks about partnership and future plans.

It shines through its candid communication. The format highlights how love looks different and also very familiar, which makes breakthroughs feel especially moving.

‘My Mum, Your Dad’ (2023)

Single parents are nominated by their grown kids to find love at a countryside retreat. The twist is that the kids watch from a nearby hub and secretly help guide dates.

It succeeds because it is kind. There is gentle humor, honest nerves, and a sweet focus on people who put family first and now get a chance to put themselves first too.

‘Farmer Wants a Wife’ (2023)

Ranchers and farmers invite potential partners to experience their world and see if country life could be a shared future. The setting brings fresh challenges as city routines make way for early mornings and open skies.

The appeal is authenticity. Dates involve chores and community events along with heartfelt talks, which grounds the romance in everyday reality.

‘Single’s Inferno’ (2021)

Attractive singles live on a stark beach with limited comforts and earn luxury dates through challenges and connections. The contrast between bare bones days and glamorous nights gives every choice a heightened feel.

The show wins with patience and small moments. Glances, thoughtful gestures, and quiet resilience create a slow build that pays off in satisfying reveals.

‘Love Village’ (2023)

Mature singles renovate a countryside home together while exploring new beginnings. The pace is gentle and the shared project encourages collaboration, kindness, and steady bonding.

It is a balm for anyone tired of shouting matches. Thoughtful chats over tea and acts of service replace spectacle with sincerity, which makes happy outcomes feel well earned.

‘Dating Around’ (2019)

Each episode follows one person through a handful of first dates that range from awkward to electric. The format is simple and elegant with no host or gimmicks, just real conversations in stylish settings.

It is endlessly relatable. You hear the same story told by different people at the table and can feel how a tiny spark or a tiny misstep changes everything.

‘Love Is Blind: Japan’ (2022)

The experiment returns with a new cast and a distinctly local sensibility that values patience and reflection. The emphasis on considerate communication makes the connections feel grounded and sincere.

What elevates it is the calm tone and thoughtful editing. You get time to understand why pairs click and how they navigate big decisions with care.

‘Love on the Spectrum U.S.’ (2022)

Following autistic singles as they date with support from coaches and family, this series treats every step with respect and joy. The focus is on individual dreams rather than reality tropes.

It is inspiring without being cloying. Moments of vulnerability and triumph land with real weight, and the kindness on screen is contagious.

‘Love on the Spectrum’ (2019)

This tender docuseries centers autistic adults as they look for connection while celebrating neurodiversity. It blends humor, empathy, and practical guidance to create a welcoming space for viewers and participants alike.

What makes it special is the celebration of difference as an everyday truth. The dates are sweet, the families are wonderful, and the storytelling leaves you hopeful about love in all its forms.

Share your own favorites and the couples you still think about in the comments.