The Zodiac Signs That Are Totally Compatible With Capricorn—And the Signs That Most Definitely Aren’t

Photo: Stocksy / Pedro Merino
Capricorn, the tenth sign of the zodiac, is perfectly symbolized by the sea goat. A cardinal sign that kicks off the winter season between December 22 and January 19, Capricorn traits include determination, strength, ambition, and dependability; however, they're also nurturing, creative, sensitive, and fiercely protective and loyal to the ones they love. Capricorn's most compatible match would appreciate and admire their determination and strength while balancing their harder edges with softness; their ideal partner would create a way for them to be vulnerable and would bring out their fun-loving side, too. If you're wondering "who are Capricorns compatible with," keep reading to learn all about what Capricorn needs in a match, plus how compatible each zodiac sign is with this strong sign.


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Key Capricorn Traits

A cardinal earth sign, Capricorns (and this counts for those who have a sun sign in Capricorn or a Capricorn moon sign) are rock solid and committed. They aren't afraid of the long path ahead when faced with a challenge. Ruled by Saturn, which symbolizes wisdom and discipline, “Capricorns are responsible, intellectual, active and ambitious," Emily Newman, astrologer, psychic reader and spiritual healer at The Best of Psychic Readers.

According to astrologer Alexandria Lettman, common Capricorn personality traits include being self-motivated, controlled, and natural providers. Capricorns take pride in being determined and powerful, and they have a love of winning, seeing tangible results and making money, whereby they can confirm that their diligence and hard work has truly paid off. They love to work and are eager and able to climb the corporate ladder (which is part of why their best day of 2023 prediction involved getting a big promotion, most likely).

But underneath the more serious and reserved demeanor, astrologer Maria Sofia Marmanides says Capricorns often mask an underrated sense of humor. "Part of their provider persona is a person who wants to provide whatever their partner needs: whether that's a personal confidante or deadpan comedian," she says. It may sound hard to believe, but Capricorns can be sweet, silly, spontaneous, and fun-loving when they feel safe enough to do so— they do have a fun side that they let their close friends and loved ones see (they're extremely loyal and dedicated to the ones they love, which fits Capricorn's 2023 horoscope that says this year is all about their family).

And while they may seem intense, their desire to provide and protect comes from a deep place of love and respect—this is a sign who commits fiercely to its loved ones. "Capricorn is really operating from love; they just want to provide warmth, comfort, and security for the ones they love," she says. "Once a Capricorn loves you, they're a proverbial 'ride-or-die,'" she says.

Some of Capricorn's less admirable qualities are stubbornness and lust for power and control—when they put their mind to something, the become singularly focused on achieving it. This extends to all realms of Capricorn's life, from achieving power and dominance in their careers, to the way they express themselves or argue during heated debates—even to their sex lives, which means they might want to take charge in the bedroom. They're also very realistic (that's the earth sign in them), which can sometimes tip into pessimism. And they can be so risk-averse that they get set in their ways.

In terms of who they want as a partner, Caps want an ambitious partner by their side who will appreciate their drive and leadership, and who possesses these traits, too. Marmanides says they want to build something great alongside their partner. They also need someone who won't feel smothered or bothered by their need to provide for and protect them. Someone who can balance these desires and also coax out Capricorn's vulnerable, emotional side (which they do their very best to hide and quiet) would make an ideal match.

Capricorn Compatibility in Relationships

Capricorn and Aries Compatibility

The first sign of the zodiac and a cardinal fire signbold and assertive Aries is too much of an opponent for power-hungry, dominant Capricorn to be an easy romantic partner. These form a square with each other, which means there's tension between them. Aries and Capricorn compatibility is low compared to the other zodiac signs because there isn’t much in common between the two. “Aries is obstinate, hasty and rash, and acts quickly and recklessly at times, whereas Capricorn is calm and collected, and they are more practical, slow and thrifty,” Newman says.

They are also mismatched when it comes to how they handle their emotions. Capricorn also needs time to open up and become emotionally vulnerable, while Aries opens up fast and dives straight in without fear. Aries also expects everything in the relationship to happen quickly and tends to be passionate and often hasty with decision-making and big, momentous life choices, such as moving in together soon after meeting, as an example.

Aries is all about brash, quick actions and they build attachments to their partners fast and want to become integrated into all aspects of their lives, which can be too fast and daunting for slow-paced, cautious Capricorn.

However, if these two signs could put aside their differences, focus on their similarities (that singular drive and determination) and work toward a common goal, they'd be pretty much unstoppable. Lettman says that while these signs may be too strong to work as romantic partners, they could make a great friendship pair. "In a friendship between Aries and Capricorn nobody is getting in their way because they're like the queen bees," she previously told Well+Good.

Capricorn and Taurus Compatibility

Nurturing Taurus is also an earth sign, which means Capricorn and Taurus are a natural pairing that could build a strong foundation and life together. Capricorn and Taurus' compatibility is high, and this pairing is a soulmate level match. “Taurus, one of Capricorn's finest soulmates, is reliable and faithful, and both of them have a strong relationship with one another,” says Newman.

These two signs have enough in common to totally click, but also some key differences that would be very additive to each. They're both stubborn and workaholics, which may make some arguments rather cumbersome and heated; however, they would excel at setting long-term goals as a couple, as well as in their routine habits and lifestyles, based on these shared values. Taurus' sensuality and appreciation for the good things in life can help temper Capricorn a bit and dull some of their sharper, harder edges.

Both signs must first build mutual understanding in order for the relationship to develop and withstand time. “Taurus is continuously looking for a trustworthy mate,” says Newman, whereas Capricorn remains more cool and calm within the relationship. “Capricorn tends to be more faithful, dedicated, and at ease,” she says. Both have a natural tendency to comprehend and meet each other’s needs with a little patience and work.

Capricorn and Gemini Compatibility

Serious and grounded Capricorn is a mismatch with impulsive Gemini. An air sign, Geminis often have a free-spirited, silly, lively and more laid-back approach to life and crave lots of stimulation, laughter and spontaneous energy that makes the greatest, most craziest, unexpected memories—this doesn't quite gel with Capricorn's modus operandi.

“Gemini is also a sign with a split personality, whereas Capricorn is a serious sign, and Capricorn prefers the conventional approach to love, while Gemini enjoys new experiences, meeting new people and seeking adventures,” Newman says.

Because their natural tendencies differ, Capricorn and Gemini would struggle to communicate effectively and would have to put in significant effort to bridge that communication gap. Capricorn is more grounded, serious and cautious while Gemini is more go-with-the-flow, open and casual. “Both partners must work hard to improve this connection to make the relationship work,” says Newman, where perhaps couple’s counseling to resolve communication blocks may be extra beneficial.

Capricorn and Cancer Compatibility

Caring Cancer is a water sign, and while on one hand, Capricorn is overly logical and Cancer is overly sensitive (which can cause some disruption to their otherwise gravitation towards harmony), both can generally tolerate the flow of each other pretty well and can figure their differences out. This balance actually makes this a strong and loving pairing.

“Capricorns guarantee that their partner's life is stable and secure, and one of Capricorn's greatest soulmates is Cancer, who gives comfort and care to their relationship,” says Newman. With Cancer nurturing and Capricorn providing, this is a balanced pairing that would give each sign what it usually lacks. “Together, these two signs form a lasting and harmonious partnership, and while there is potential for miscommunication, both signs are mature enough to deal with it in order to help make it work,” says Newman.

Capricorn and Leo Compatibility

Another fire sign, confident Leo presents a challenge for Capricorn. Both fiercely competitive, this is a case of two huge personalities that won't balance and can't coexist; Newman says Capricorn can’t handle Leo's demanding, self-absorbed and attention-seeking attitude and that competition would drive them apart. “They are continually in competition with one another, and there aren’t similarities between the two, as in the case between Aries, and other less compatible signs with Capricorn," she says.

They also have fundamentally different demeanors: Capricorn is far more serious than Leo, which Leo may find boring. Leos generally craves a greater need for spontaneity, attention, and drama—all things that may make a Capricorn's skin crawl. “Capricorn struggles to meet Leo's needs, and as a result, Leo may feel disconnected,” says Newman, where ultimately, they’ll let each other down with regards to their ideal lifestyles.

They will differ in desired balance between play and adventure versus time for hard work and that “daily grind,” which may prevent the pair from growing and succeeding as a couple.

Capricorn and Virgo Compatibility

Intelligence and organization are two Virgo traits, and they are just two reasons this fellow earth-sign would make a great partner for Capricorn. Both fiercely determined and hard-working, these two signs have similar interests, future goals and lifestyles, as well as often similarities in their day-to-day habits and schedules. “Virgo is excessively detail-oriented, whereas Capricorn is more concerned with the larger picture; yet, they can do anything if they work together,” says Newman.

What’s more, Capricorn and Virgo are both intellectual and driven. “Both zodiac signs are wise, and for each other, they are both dependable and trustworthy, so the emotional connection between these two zodiac signs is amazing and strong,” says Newman.

Capricorn and Libra Compatibility

Another cardinal sign that kicks off the fall season, lively Libra would be a fabulous friend to Capricorn, but a tougher romantic match. According to Lettman, these two cardinal signs that initiate their respective seasons share enthusiasm and an active spirit, but that doesn't really translate into romantic sparks. "They'd struggle not to get bored of each other romantically," she says.

They both have pretty different personalities when it comes to love, too; Libra is much more sensual and romantic and while Capricorn can get into that mode, it takes much more work for them. "Capricorn is all business and Libra loves romance, which Capricorn isn't great with without prompts," she says. This mismatch my cause issues.

Capricorn and Scorpio Compatibility

"Talk about a powerhouse pairing," Marmanides says about this earth and water sign duo. Two of the most intense signs of the zodiac, Capricorn and mysterious and deep Scorpio both often are the dominant forces in their relationships—this shared intensity can result in a committed, deeply bonded pairing that will see each sign want to fiercely protect the one they love.

They balance each other well, too. According to Lettman, "Scorpio has the strength that Capricorn loves and the sensitivity that Capricorn lacks." Scorpio will value Capricorn's stability and emotional security while Capricorn will be intrigued by Scorpio's depth. And while the arguments might be heated, they'll also share intense and passionate sexual chemistry.

One major obstacle though? Getting both of these guarded and control-loving signs to show vulnerability by opening up and lowering their defenses. "Each one of these signs closely guard their hearts and shields themselves from being too vulnerable, but if they can make it past those initial trust stages, this is an excellent pairing," Marmanides says.

Capricorn and Sagittarius Compatibility

Despite sharing a cusp, these two winter signs aren't a compatible romantic match. Lettman says their values and priorities will clash and cause frustrations. "Serious-minded Capricorn and wild and free Sagittarius aren't a romantic hit," she says. "Capricorns value order and structure while Sagittarians prefer to live life adventurously."

While both are fiercely intelligent and wise, Lettman says their values and priorities will clash and cause frustrations. They could hold great conversations but these differences would make it tough to sustain a romance. The only thing they click on is their intellect and worldly wisdom, making for great conversations between them.

However, Marmanides says this combo could work if Capricorn and Sagittarius can work out their differences. "Sagittarius will have a committed, reliable partner who will be go-to for their next adventure while Capricorn gets someone who encourages them to be open to spontaneity, deviating from the plan, and just having more fun," she says.

Capricorn and Capricorn Compatibility

Two Capricorns together make a strong pair, according to Marmanides. "The challenge with any same-sign zodiac pairings will always be the potential for competition and whose needs will be prioritized, but if two any two signs can coordinate a system that works successfully, it's two Capricorns because both will understand how the other operates," she says. "They will be more prone to being patient and willing to take turns about who leads and when." Two Caps also are aligned on how the other thinks, so there are fewer chances for verbal and emotional miscommunications to happen.

And while two Capricorns are a "dream match friendship wise," Lettman says problems could arise romantically because they could face trouble with maintaining their intimate connection because they may both prioritize other aspects of the relationship (like building together). This means these partners would have to put in effort to make sure they have enough intimacy. "There's a lack of balance in this relationship which doesn't make them the best match, but it's certainly not impossible to work with," she says.

Capricorn and Aquarius Compatibility

Another winter sign, visionary Aquarius and Capricorn can both share a cusp and a fulfilling partnership. They do have some differences, but also some similarities besides both being ruled by Saturn: they both deeply care about providing for the ones they love, and about structures and systems. "They want everyone to succeed and want to set them up for success," Marmanides says. "This pairing works well as friends or business partners, but can even work as a romance if both let their guards down and show their emotional side."

However, they do operate completely differently, according to Lettman, which could present issues as romantic partners. "Capricorns are more low-key than Aquarians, and Aquarians are free-spirited and less traditional than Capricorns," she says. Being open-minded and non-judgmental would be key, here.

Capricorn and Pisces Compatibility

Dreamy and emotional, Pisces and Capricorn are a strong match, either romantically or platonically, that would balance each other well. "If Pisces is the dreamer of the zodiac, then Capricorn is the sign that can help them make their fantasies into a reality, providing the structure, planning, and encouragement that Pisces needs," Marmanides says. In turn, water sign Pisces can encourage Capricorn's creative, silly, and fun sides to come out. "These two pair together wonderfully as friends, and can work equally well as romantic partners as long as each party respects and admires their inherent differences."

Besides being well-balanced, this pairing could result in growth for both Capricorn and Pisces. Lettman adds that they both have something to learn from each other: Capricorn could learn from Pisces' vulnerability and openness with their emotions, while Pisces would benefit from seeing Capricorn's dedication to structure and consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Capricorn need in a partner?

According to Lettman, Capricorn needs a partner who will allow them to care for them and will help them feel free and comfortable to express and engage with their emotions. "Capricorns tend to struggle to open up emotionally, and need a significant other who can hold space for them to do so on their own terms rather than push them to be vulnerable," she says. However, not everything is serious.

Which Zodiac sign is a Capricorn's best match?

Capricorn generally gets along best with its fellow earth signs, Taurus and Virgo, but Marmanides says Taurus gets a slight edge over Virgo for its best match. Capricorn would be thrilled to fulfill Taurus' desires for comfort, commitment, and security, while Taurus' calming, drama-free approach to love can help center Capricorn. "They also both love luxury and high-status items, so they'll have similar spending habits which helps," she adds. Virgo would be a strong pairing, too.

Capricorn also gets along well with water signs. Cancer is a great love match for Capricorn, and Scorpio and Capricorn's deep and passionate bond can't be beat.

Which Zodiac sign is a Capricorn's worst match?

With the caveat that it's important to take into account all of someone's placements by assessing their full natal chart before deciding if someone isn't a suitable match, Gemini is Capricorn's worst match if you only consider sun sign placements because they are just too different and have fundamental values and traits that will make misunderstandings frequent and major. "Capricorn is a cardinal sign, which is initiating energy, and an earth sign, which is all about being grounded and slow to move," Marmanides says. "Gemini is a mutable sign, which makes them open to change and flexible, even encouraging change; they're an air sign as well, so they don't necessarily want their ideas being brought down to earth."

And while Sagittarius and Capricorn could overcome their differences and make a good pair, the work may just be too difficult. Lettman also says that because Libra is so different from Capricorn it would be really difficult to make a relationship work, and that Aries and Leo would be too competitive both in friendship and romance.

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