For guys who want to step up their game, or who are getting back in the dating scene after the end of a lengthy relationship, here’s the good news – the odds are in your favor. U.S. Census numbers say that there are 86 eligible males for every 100 women.

 

That said, you can’t just let statistics do all the work for you. Finding a partner in today's hectic world can be a challenge. Geography can be your friend, as cities like San Francisco, New York, and Washington, D.C. are great for singles, while Portland is going to be much more competitive.

 

Trying your hand at online dating can result in success, as 40 percent of singles now use online dating services. If you’re going to try eHarmony or Plenty of Fish, be sure to carefully edit your profile, as 48 percent of women now say they research potential dates' profiles and will bail on a date if they see something they consider a red flag.

 

When going on a first date, it pays to drop a compliment or two, and past travels or future vacation plans are considered a great icebreaker. Having a fat stack of cash also helps, as 88 percent of women find money to be very important in a relationship. Talk about exes, politics, and your past amorous exploits are non-starters, however, so avoid these topics.

By playing it smart, most guys can enjoy the single life, and perhaps find a longtime partner.