The digital matchmaking world has grown beyond expectations. Platforms like Shaadi.com, Jeevansathi, and Bharat Matrimony have shown that finding a life partner can also be a profitable business.
If you’re planning to build a matrimony app, one question decides your long-term success — how matrimony apps make money. The answer lies in creating a solid mix of monetization channels that keep users engaged and your revenue predictable.
Let’s explore the complete picture — from proven revenue models to examples, challenges, and expert insights to help you build a successful matrimony platform.
The Growing Business of Matrimony Apps
Digital matchmaking is now one of the fastest-growing business segments in India. According to Statista, the global dating and matchmaking industry is projected to reach over $11 billion by 2026.
Ready to build a matrimonial app that works?
Like If you are looking for Matrimony App Development . Contact Us Today
In India, where arranged marriages still dominate, apps like Shaadi.com and Bharat Matrimony have bridged traditional values with digital convenience — helping millions of people find partners while earning steady income.
To understand how matrimony apps make money, you need to know their multiple income streams — subscriptions, freemium plans, ads, partnerships, and premium matchmaking.
How Matrimony Apps Make Money — Overview
Every top matrimony platform earns through a mix of user subscriptions, freemium upgrades, advertisements, and premium concierge services.
Here’s the basic formula:
- Attract users with free registration and limited features.
- Offer paid plans that unlock advanced features.
- Add extra revenue streams like ads, affiliate sales, or wedding-related partnerships.
This balanced approach keeps the app sustainable while improving user satisfaction.
Subscription Plans — The Foundation of App Revenue
Free vs Paid Membership
Most apps use a freemium structure — free profiles with restricted access and paid plans with full benefits. For instance, Shaadi.com offers Gold, Diamond, and Platinum tiers, each with exclusive perks.
Common Plan Types
- Duration-based: Users pay monthly or yearly.
- Feature-based: Unlocks specific features like “Contact View” or “Priority Listing.”
- Hybrid: Combines both.
Subscriptions ensure consistent monthly income while motivating users to stay active.
1. Freemium Model — Converting Free Users into Paying Customers
The freemium model is another strong way matrimony apps make money. It keeps entry barriers low and lets users explore before paying.
Examples of Freemium Upgrades
- Accessing complete profiles
- Sending unlimited interests
- Advanced matchmaking filters
- Higher profile visibility
Apps like Jeevansathi and Bharat Matrimony rely heavily on this model — offering free access but paid upgrades for better reach and visibility.
2. Advertising Revenue — Non-Subscription Earnings
Ads remain one of the most reliable side incomes for free-user apps.
Ad Formats Used
- Banner ads on search results
- Video ads during match browsing
- Sponsored profiles or featured wedding services
Since the audience already plans weddings, ads for decorators, photographers, and jewelry brands fit naturally and feel relevant. The smartest apps ensure paid users enjoy an ad-free experience — motivating upgrades.
3. Commissions and Partnerships
Beyond subscriptions, matrimony apps also partner with wedding-related businesses and earn referral income.
Some examples include:
- Event planners and decorators — for full wedding management packages
- Travel and honeymoon agencies — for post-marriage trips
- Astrologers or counselors — for personalized compatibility reports
This model helps build a complete “wedding ecosystem,” allowing the app to earn even after users find their match.
4. Premium Matchmaking and Concierge Services
Apps like Elite Matrimony charge high fees for curated, private matchmaking handled by human consultants.
What’s Offered
- Dedicated relationship managers
- Verified and exclusive profiles
- Privacy-focused introductions
Professionals and high-income users prefer this model for confidentiality and quality. It’s a lucrative revenue stream that can bring in thousands per client.
Data Insights and Research Reports
When managed ethically and anonymously, aggregated data helps understand user behavior and preferences. Large platforms sometimes license these insights to marketing or research agencies to generate additional income.
It must be transparent and compliant with privacy laws — always keeping user trust first.
In-App Purchases — Microtransactions that Add Up
Beyond subscriptions, small in-app purchases boost engagement and revenue:
- Profile boosts for 24 hours
- Gifting badges or stickers
- Sending premium interest requests
These low-cost transactions encourage users to stay active and subtly increase total revenue per user.
White-Label Licensing
Once a matrimony platform is successful, its owners can license the same software to niche or regional operators. For example, a Telugu-specific app may license its backend to a smaller regional brand.
At Colour Moon Technologies, we often help startups design apps that can be licensed or franchised later — turning a single business idea into a scalable ecosystem.
Real-World Examples
| Platform | Revenue Streams | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Shaadi.com | Subscriptions, ads, concierge | Tiered memberships |
| Bharat Matrimony | Subscription, regional focus, partnerships | Niche-based segmentation |
| Jeevansathi | Freemium + paid messaging | Verified contacts |
| Elite Matrimony | Premium matchmaking | Personal relationship managers |
Each platform mixes these streams differently, but they all balance free features with strong premium upgrades.
Common Challenges
Even with proven revenue models, some practical issues can slow growth:
- User trust and authenticity — fake profiles harm conversion.
- Feature balance — too many restrictions on free users can reduce engagement.
- Cultural diversity — pricing and communication must adapt regionally.
- Data security — privacy breaches can permanently harm credibility.
At Colour Moon Technologies, we ensure every matrimony app we build includes robust verification and encryption to maintain user confidence and regulatory safety.
Future Trends in Matrimony App Monetization
AI-based matchmaking
AI helps apps recommend compatible profiles faster. Startups can sell AI-based matchmaking as an add-on feature.
Video matchmaking
Short video profiles and live introductions increase engagement. Apps can charge extra for uploads or access.
Hyperlocal matchmaking
Focusing on specific regions or communities increases personalization — and premium users are willing to pay for it.
Wedding service integration
Future apps will expand beyond matchmaking, offering planning tools, vendor tie-ups, and wedding finance options.
Steps to Build a Profitable Matrimony App
- Define your niche (religion, region, profession).
- Map your revenue model early.
- Focus on easy onboarding and verification.
- Add both free and premium features.
- Include smart analytics to track user upgrades.
- Launch with social media and SEO marketing.
If you want help, check out our detailed guide —
👉 How to Create a Matrimony App in 2025
How ColourMoon Technologies Helps Entrepreneurs
Building a profitable matrimony app takes more than development — it requires business logic and user psychology.
At Colour Moon Technologies, we specialize in building custom matrimony apps that include subscription systems, secure chats, AI matchmaking, and analytics dashboards.
We’ve also published related articles to help entrepreneurs plan better:
- 📌 Matrimony App Development in 2025: The Easy Way
- 📌 Cost to Develop a Matrimonial App like Shaadi.com
- 📌 5 Strategies for Marketing a Matrimony App
Each article complements this one, giving you full insight from concept → cost → marketing → monetization.
Conclusion
Understanding how matrimony apps make money helps entrepreneurs focus on sustainable growth rather than short-term gains. The right mix of subscriptions, freemium models, ads, and partnerships creates a consistent revenue flow while improving user experience.
If you’re ready to build a matrimony app that attracts users and earns steadily, Colour Moon Technologies can help you make it happen
Talk to our app development experts today and start building your own profitable matrimony platform.
FAQs About How Matrimony Apps Make Money
Q1. What is the main source of income for matrimony apps?
Most matrimony apps earn through subscription plans. Users pay to unlock premium features like contact access, direct messaging, or higher visibility.
Q2. How can a new matrimony startup attract paying users?
Start with free registration to build a user base. Then, offer visible value through premium features — like verified profiles or matchmaking assistance — that users are happy to pay for.
Q3. Are ads a good revenue source for matrimony apps?
Yes, but they should be used carefully. Ads for wedding services, travel, or jewelry work well if they fit naturally. Avoid excessive ads, as they can disrupt the experience and lower trust.