Office Romances Are on the Decline
It seems Cupid might be having a tough time in today’s workplaces.
Recent survey results indicate that office romances, dates with co-workers, and the excitement of workplace relationships are becoming less common each year across the United States.
In 2025, a mere 22% of employees surveyed by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) reported having romantic feelings at work. This is quite a drop from the 49% who said the same in 2024.
Moreover, only 16% of workers indicated they had dated a colleague in the past year, down from 21% the previous year.
Encounters that were once a staple of office life are dwindling as well. In 2025, just 7% of employees admitted to having had a “risky romantic experience” at work, down from 13% the year before.
But it’s not just the fleeting thrills that are fading.
Historically, workplaces have been a prime venue for finding life partners. A 2020 survey noted that about 20% of adults over 50 met their spouse at work. In contrast, only 13% of those aged 18 to 29 said the same.
Interestingly, most managers believe that workplace relationships can enhance team dynamics. However, as noted by author Juno Kelly in a provocative New York Times column, the rise of online dating and increasing sexual harassment training might be contributing to this shift.
Kelly expressed her belief that, “the risks outweigh the rewards.” Yet, she hinted that embracing a more responsible office romance culture could help address what she sees as dating issues for Generation Z.
In fact, over one-third of singles younger than 30 reported a lack of interest in dating, and half stated they weren’t actively seeking a date.
Kelly argued, “As an adult, where else can you bond with a potential partner when you share so much of your daily life?”
Research shows that traditional avenues for meeting people, like through church, friends, college, or neighbors, are also declining across generations. By 2017, around 40% of couples reported meeting online.
Among the few workers who still mix work with romance, over half said they were looking for true love. Additionally, 40% were motivated by excitement or adventure, while nearly 30% sought career advancement or security through these liaisons.
Interestingly, about one in five workers admitted to showing affection publicly while at work. And a notable 63% of office managers felt workplace romances contribute positively to team dynamics, compared to just 12% who viewed them negatively.
As Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., president and CEO of SHRM, stated regarding these findings, “Workplace romances are common in the professional world, but they pose unique challenges.” He emphasized the importance of clear policies, effective training, and a culture that encourages transparency. By thoughtfully navigating these dynamics, organizations can respect employees’ personal connections while managing potential risks.
