Move over, polished and perfectly filtered profiles. The dating landscape is shifting, and authenticity is the new currency. According to a new forecast, bookworms, Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts, and experts in niche topics are about to become highly sought-after partners in 2026.
The Rise of the Nerd
Dating.com's Millennial Intimacy Forecast, published on December 21, 2025, indicates a significant trend reversal. People have grown weary of curated online personas and are now yearning for genuine connections with individuals of substance. While being authentic doesn't automatically make someone a nerd, the data points to a newfound appreciation for geeky qualities.
The key finding is striking: nearly three-quarters (71%) of millennials surveyed now say they find nerds sexy. This isn't just about a longstanding appreciation for "hot, geeky girls" among men. Women are actively seeking out what the report calls "Clark Kent energy." Searches for terms like "nerdy men" have skyrocketed by 653% in the past month, with "nerdy guys" seeing a 383% increase.
Why Intelligence is Now a Priority
So, what's driving this cultural shift in romance? Relationship experts point to a generation shaped by instability. Millennials have navigated financial crises, political volatility, and pervasive burnout culture. In response, their desires in a partner have evolved.
"Superficial charm and constant self-display are taking a back burner," explains relationship expert and therapist Jaime Bronstein. "People are looking for safety, emotional maturity, and stability over emotional flight."
This translates into a search for partners who offer competence, reliability, and emotional depth. The appeal of a nerd, according to the forecast, lies in their consistency, genuine passions, and lack of pretense. They are seen as individuals who are deeply engaged in their interests, which can be more reassuring than a partner who is emotionally unavailable or focused on external validation.
What This Means for the Dating Scene
The practical implication is clear for those with nerdy inclinations: prepare for increased attention. Dungeons & Dragons players, avid readers, and niche hobbyists may find their direct messages and dating app matches filling up.
Bronstein emphasizes that both classic intelligence and emotional intelligence are becoming central to attraction. "These are qualities that were long unrewarded by social media clout, yet now are regaining their status in the dating landscape," she noted.
The forecast suggests that the era of prioritizing a flawless, exciting image is waning. In its place, singles are valuing the sincerity and substantial character often embodied by those proudly dedicated to their intellectual or quirky pursuits. The message for 2026 is to embrace your authentic self—passions, depth, and all.
