Single Ladies Claim Dating in Maricopa is a Lost Cause: Here’s the Inside Scoop

Residents of Glennwilde, Susan and Dani Brown, recently opened up about the challenges they face in the dating scene on February 5, 2025. Their experiences highlight a peculiar struggle that many Maricopa inhabitants endure due, in part, to the limitations imposed by State Route 347.

The highway often controls daily life for Maricopans, contributing to incessant complaints about traffic delays and the stress of commuting. Yet, surprisingly, this roadway has become an obstacle in the quest for love, complicating dating dynamics more than anyone could have anticipated.

“I often tell potential dates that I’m geographically undesirable,” stated Susan, 58. She noted that three-quarters of those she dates agree with her assessment. The notion of being “geographically undesirable” resonates deeply when one considers that Maricopa lies a mere 15 miles from Chandler or Phoenix.

“If you don’t meet someone in Maricopa, it’s almost like you’re stuck in a long-distance relationship,” commented Creola Brown, another resident and remote worker. She expressed frustration about the difficulties of traveling outside Maricopa during the week, particularly when potential partners are unsure about venturing into the city. “They see Maricopa as off the map,” she said.

An unscientific poll conducted by InMaricopa.com revealed that about one in four Maricopans are single. Alarmingly, over 95% of the 331 respondents reported minimal success in their dating endeavors.

For 22-year-old Nikita Prasad, dating in Maricopa is nothing short of “exhausting.” She pointed out the lack of venues to meet new people and that the closest options for a night out are in Chandler. “There are only four places to socialize, all of which are restaurants,” she explained, emphasizing the need for more diverse activities.

With limited choices, the dating pool in Maricopa continues to shrink. Dani noted that despite new residents moving to the area, many are married with families, leaving few options for singles. “Most people here are either couples or retirees,” she said, acknowledging the scarcity of potential partners.

This concern is echoed by relationship coach Christian Huskins, who works with numerous clients in the area. She remarked on the challenges of dating in a small town, stating, “When you’re dating someone in Maricopa, you end up dating the entire community.” This shared sense of familiarity can complicate interactions and lead individuals to seek connections beyond the boundaries of the city.

To improve their dating prospects, many residents are focusing on self-improvement before jumping into new relationships. Susan reflected on the difficulties following her divorce in 2023, admitting that while trust has been a challenge, she remains committed to her personal growth. “I’ve done a lot of the hard work and am still working on myself,” she shared.

Dani reaffirmed this sentiment, expressing contentment with her current state despite feeling lonely at times. “I got peace — and that’s priceless,” she concluded.

Christian Huskins provided five key tips for singles seeking relationships in Maricopa. First, she urged individuals to date with self-awareness and set clear intentions regarding their needs and boundaries. Secondly, emotional regulation is crucial, especially before navigating the complexities of dating. Knowing one’s non-negotiables can save time when searching for compatible partners. Thirdly, patience is essential; meaningful connections take time to develop. Finally, she emphasized the importance of being true to oneself and resisting the impulse to conform to another’s expectations.