Sexting in the U.S.: Who Sends What, and Why? by NastyHookups

Sexting is now mainstream in American dating culture, shaping the way people flirt, connect, and build intimacy. But who's really sexting—and what are their motivations and preferences? To understand the landscape clearly, Flirtini surveyed 2,000 American daters across all age groups and relationship statuses.

Why Sexting Matters

For many daters today, sexting is more than just casual fun—it's become a key part of how people express interest, maintain relationships, or explore attraction safely from a distance. Younger generations are particularly active, using sexting as a standard form of communication in their romantic lives.

Why Sexting Matters

Key Takeaways from the Data:

  • Millennials (74%) and Gen Z (68%) sext significantly more than older generations.
  • Men and women have distinct sexting preferences and boundaries. For instance, men are often more comfortable sharing explicit images, while women generally prefer text and value privacy.
  • Relationship type greatly influences sexting habits—casual daters sext weekly far more often (54%) than married people (29%) or singles (12%).
  • Regret and consent are important aspects, with nearly 1 in 4 respondents experiencing pressure to sext, highlighting the need for clear boundaries and communication.

Understanding these behaviors can help singles and couples navigate modern dating culture more comfortably and respectfully.

Whether you're actively dating, in a relationship, or simply curious about today's romantic trends, recognizing these patterns can lead to healthier and more satisfying interactions. Stay informed and stay respectful—that's the key to modern dating success.

Author Name

Angela Abrams

Angela is a relationship psychologist and author of several publications on modern dating culture. He writes about intimacy, human behavior, and emotional health.