So Is It Even Worth Dating Someone When Your Zodiac Signs Aren’t Compatible? An Astrologer Explains

Photo: Getty Images/ JeffDai/ Stocktrek Images
On a recent first date, the guy I was out with happened to mention his birthday. My heart dipped a little bit as I did some mental calculations: a Libra, sigh. According to standard horoscope compatibility, we were incompatible. So, I took the only logical recourse and calmly excused myself to the restroom, where I proceeded to climb out the window, permanently block his number, and get on with my life. I kid, I kid. I stayed, had a great time, and we have a second date lined up.

That said, I’m still superstitious about dates with Libras. As a Pisces, Libras are not the most compatible zodiac sign for me. Maybe it’s not of paramount importance, but it’s also not not of importance. In fact, astrological compatibility has become such a thing that dating app Bumble added a feature for users to include their sign in their profiles. Bumble’s sociologist Jess Carbino, PhD, says this trend has to do with young people choosing to identify less with religion and more with spirituality and astrology. So, it makes sense that we’d be interested in dating for compatibility, according to the universe’s POV.


Experts In This Article

So, back to me: Is there any hope at all for a Pisces and a Libra? And what about all the other sign combos that haven’t earned that zodiac seal of approval? Can incompatible zodiac signs work? Since my many credentials (okay, I just have a degree in English lit) don’t extend to this subject matter, I turned to Juliana McCarthy, astrologer and author of The Stars Within You, to break it down (and hopefully not, you know, break it up).

Here’s what to do if you and your date aren’t technically zodiac-compatible.

A woman lies on her partner's lap on a couch.
Photo: Getty Images/ Lightfieldstudios

First, which zodiac signs are most compatible?

“Astrologers often say that the remedy for any sign’s neurosis is the enlightened qualities of the opposite sign,” McCarthy says. “Earth signs can provide balance, pragmatism, and grounded-ness to water signs, while water signs can provide fluidity, spirituality, and emotional depth to earth signs. Air signs can fuel fire signs with brilliant ideas and intellectual stimulation, while fire signs help bring air signs’ mental energy into action.”

She explains that traditionally, water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) and earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn) go together because of their complementary astrological elements, with water nourishing earth. To this same effect, air signs (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius) and fire signs (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius) go together because air feeds fire. “Also, signs that are in the same element (earth, water, air, or fire) form the most harmonious angles to each other, called ‘trines,’ which are 120 degrees apart,” she explains.

And which zodiac signs are the least compatible?

McCarthy says opposing signs on the chart don’t necessarily spell out incompatibility—but this situation doesn’t always make for the smoothest relationship. That said, “in terms of least compatible signs, fire scorches earth, and earth and air have trouble blending,” she says.

But keep in mind that these pieces of intel are only paying attention to your sun sign, which is hardly the only aspect of your zodiac profile worth noting. Opposites work if other parts of your zodiac chart flow. “For example, if your suns are opposite but your moons flow, this could be a very good match,” she says.

The most and least compatible zodiac signs

Aries

The signs most compatible with Aries: Gemini, Leo, Libra

Ambitious, strong-willed and, at times, short-tempered, if there’s anyone who can relate to and appreciate Aries’ fiery traits, it’s Leo. Equally courageous and confident in their convictions, “they are the best to handle Aries,” Emily Newman, astrologer at The Best of Psychic Reader, previously told Well+Good. Aries compatibility makes them well-suited air signs Gemini and Libra, as they can help balance out the ram’s brash nature. Aries (which is also one of the luckiest zodiac signs of 2023) have an affinity for individuals who exude charisma and think outside the box, says Newman, which are qualities that come naturally to Gemini. Libra values balance and harmony in all aspects of life, and they can bring calm to Aries and offset their innate intensity, she adds.

The signs least compatible with Aries: Aries, Taurus, Cancer 

Fire signs won’t always get along when they come together, Newman told Well+Good, pointing to two Aries as an example. “Both want to be able to think and conduct things in the way they desire,” she says, resulting in a partnership involving two competitors rather than a unified team. Taurus is likely to butt heads with Aries as well, she says, as the bull is more conventional in their way of thinking and prefers to play it safe, whereas Aries values spontaneity and taking risks. Getting along with Cancer might also be difficult for Aries, astrologer Alexandria Lettman previously told Well+Good. Being an emotional and sensitive water sign, Cancer might find Aries’ blunt honesty off-putting, she says.

Taurus

The signs most compatible with Taurus: Cancer, Virgo, Pisces

Key among Taurus’ traits are their practical, steady, reliable, and slow-moving nature—and it is these qualities that make Taurus compatible with Virgo, according to Newman in an interview with Well+Good. “Both Taurus and Virgo are earth signs and both place a value on stability and security,” she says. “This makes it easy for them to understand each other.” Water signs Cancer and Pisces are also compatible with the bull, she adds. Being the homebody of the zodiac, Cancer likewise seeks a loyal and steadfast partner. Pisces and Taurus compatibility can also lead to a lasting bond. Not only will they get along well due to similar interests, she says, they will also “prioritize their love over anything else.”

The signs least compatible with Taurus: Aries, Aquarius, Sagittarius

Conversely, fire signs Aries and Sagittarius aren’t typically compatible with Taurus. Aries might be too fast-moving for slow and steady Taurus, and since they are similarly headstrong, they can be set in their ways, giving rise to friction and resistance. Freedom-loving Sagittarius will also clash with Taurus in terms of lifestyle, says Newman. “Sagittarius enjoys adventure and discovering new things, whereas Taurus prefers to stay at home and enjoy the comforts of life,” she says. She adds that airy Aquarius is also considered an incompatible match for Taurus. Like Sagittarius, Aquarius values independence and freedom, and the combo might struggle to find common ground.

Gemini

The signs most compatible with Gemini: Aries, Libra, Aquarius 

Gemini is represented by the twins, and as their celestial symbol implies, one of Gemini’s defining traits is their duality. On one hand, Gemini can be outgoing social butterflies, and on the other, they can be introverted and keep to themselves. Gemini’s multifaceted personality makes them compatible with fire sign Aries, who, as mentioned earlier, have a natural affinity for Gemini. What’s more, “Both are quite compatible, much like best friends, and both are also sexually, emotionally, and intellectually compatible,” Newman told Well+Good. Fellow air signs Libra and Aquarius are also compatible with Gemini, as they share the twin sign’s openness to spontaneity and new adventures, she says.

The signs least compatible with Gemini: Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio

Gemini’s love of spontaneity and new adventure might not bode well with Taurus, who is set in their ways and won’t move without much provocation. The bull can also be sensitive, and they may not take Gemini’s honesty lightly. Likewise, water signs Cancer and Scorpio are emotional, and often too much so for lighthearted Gemini. Plus, “Gemini prefers to be an extrovert and needs a spouse who will take them out to enjoy new experiences, while Cancer, on the other hand, prefers a companion willing to stay at home,” says Newman. As for Scorpio, “Both are unable to comprehend one another, as Scorpios are ambitious workaholics, and may be a little dramatic, and they want to go deep, while Geminis on the other hand, enjoy shallow,” she says.

Cancer

The signs most compatible with Cancer: Taurus, Scorpio, Pisces

Cancer is not only caring and compassionate, but also “deeply committed to their family and friends,” Newman told Well+Good. As mentioned earlier, it’s these qualities that make them compatible with Taurus, who also values loyalty and commitment. Fellow water signs Scorpio and Pisces are also compatible with Cancer, as they can relate to the crab’s emotional depths. Scorpio shares many of Cancer’s traits. “They are both innately sensitive and both help each other to nurture,” says Newman. Similarly, “Pisces and Cancer are both sensitive,” she says, adding that while Pisces is more calm and easygoing than temperamental Cancer, “they balance and complement each other’s characteristics and have a strong bond.”

The signs least compatible with Cancer: Aries, Gemini, Aquarius

Conversely, Cancer is typically incompatible with Aries, as they have opposing emotional approaches and views on life. According to Newman, Aries might deem Cancer as too sensitive, whereas Cancer might be put off by Aries’ straightforward nature. What’s more, “Cancer does not like Aries’ daring and overly rational behavior,” she says. In addition, Gemini and Aquarius won’t always get along with Cancer. Gemini, like Aries, may not appreciate the crab’s sensitive side, says Newman, whereas Gemini’s spontaneous nature may not bode well with the homebody crab. Friction can also arise between Cancer and Aquarius, as “Cancer is more overly emotional, whereas Aquarius is more analytical in decision-making,” says Newman.

Leo

The signs most compatible with Leo: Aries, Gemini, Libra

Magnetic and charismatic, Leo’s key traits make them one of, if not the boldest signs of the zodiac—and fellow fire sign Aries cannot resist the celestial lion’s allure. As mentioned earlier, Aries can match Leo’s fiery energy, and when together, they can make each other shine. Gemini and Libra are also compatible with Leo, as they can fuel Leo’s fire. “Gemini is an air sign, which means they never compete with a Leo partner, and instead, assist them in achieving their success,” Newman told Well+Good. What’s more, “both are pleasant and welcoming personalities.” Libra can offer Leo the love and support Leo seeks in a relationship, says Newman, adding that they can also make them excellent friends, thanks to their “commonalities and variances in personality.”

The signs least compatible with Leo: Cancer, Virgo, Capricorn

Although Leo and Cancer are both loving, loyal, and commitment-oriented, their differences can cause friction in their relationship. For one, Leos is sensible and enjoys trying new things, says Newman, whereas Cancer is an emotional homebody who is conventional in thinking and in matters of relationships. Earth signs Virgo and Capricorn may also struggle to get along with Leo. Forward-thinking Virgo is analytical, which may clash with Leo’s proclivity to live in the current moment, Newman says, adding that “Virgo is highly intellectual, and it may be too much for Leo, who might view them as competitors.” Leo may also experience power struggles with Capricorn, she says, and since they are both stubborn by nature, it might be difficult for the two to compromise.

Virgo

The signs most compatible with Virgo: Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio

Virgo is the perfectionist of the zodiac. Well-organized with a keen eye for detail, fellow earth sign Taurus can appreciate Virgo’s key traits, as Taurus also has a practical approach to life and shares Virgo’s desire to work through things slowly but steadily. Virgo is also compatible with water signs Cancer and Scorpio. Cancer and Virgo are inherently nurturing, and they can offer one another security and stability in a relationship. Virgo and Scorpio will also find plenty of common ground. “Both signs are clever and intelligent, and they like to be well-planned,” Newman told Well+Good, and if they choose to commit to one another, it’s likely they could become a true power couple.

The signs least compatible with Virgo: Leo, Sagittarius, Aquarius

As mentioned earlier, Virgo and fiery Leo might clash when they come together—and if they can’t learn how to compromise, they will end up working against each other rather than as a team. In addition, Virgo may struggle to find common ground with free-flowing Sagittarius. “Sagittarius may become frustrated by Virgo’s need for perfection, while Virgo believes Sagittarius may be negligent and careless in their management of things,” Newman told Well+Good. Airy Aquarius who favors spontaneity over meticulous planning may also clash with Virgo. The two are also more logical than they are emotional, and with this in mind, “they will not be particularly romantic,” says Newman.

Libra

The signs most compatible with Libra: Leo, Gemini, Aquarius

Libra values balance and harmony—a key Libra trait that has earned them the reputation of being the “peacemakers” of the zodiac. They can get along well with almost anybody, but there are some zodiac signs that Libras are most compatible with—and Leo is one of them. As mentioned, Libra will fuel Leo’s fire, while Leo will bring excitement to Libra’s life. Gemini and Aquarius can also relate to and appreciate Libra. Chatty and quick-witted Gemini shares Libra’s charm and love of new experiences. Aquarius and Libra are the perfect combination on an intuitive and intellectual level, according to Newman. “Libra admires the out-of-the-box ideas of Aquarius and values freedom, which Aquarius loves in return,” she says.

The signs least compatible with Libra: Cancer, Scorpio, Capricorn

Water signs Cancer and Scorpio may struggle to find commonality with Libra. Cancer and Scorpio are emotional and sensitive, which at times, may be too much for Libra, who approaches things objectively, rather than sentimentally. Capricorn may also be an incompatible match for the sign of the scales. “[Libra] and Capricorn are different in almost every way,” according to Lettman in a previous interview with Well+Good. “[Libras] choose diplomacy while they choose authority; [Libras] seek cooperation and harmony while they are incredibly self-reliant. However, … both are very strong within [their] beliefs of what is ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ and are seeking respect from others.”

Scorpio

The signs most compatible with Scorpio: Taurus, Cancer, Virgo

Once you break through to Scorpio, you’ll find that they are deeply passionate, loyal, and protective of those they love—and if there’s a zodiac sign that can appreciate these key Scorpio traits, it’s Taurus. As mentioned, Taurus values security and stability, and Scorpio places similar importance in their relationships. What’s more, “Taurus may provide a calming influence [for Scorpio], while Scorpio can assist Taurus in spiritual growth,” Newman told Well+Good. Fellow water sign Cancer canalso understand and relate to Scorpio on a deep level, as they are innately emotional and intuitive. Virgo is another sign that is compatible with Scorpio, thanks to their similarities. “Both signs are bright and intellectual and enjoy a well-structured life,” says Newman.

The signs least compatible with Scorpio: Gemini, Leo, Libra

Conversely, Scorpio and Gemini may make an incompatible match. As mentioned, Scorpio requires safety and security to fully open up, and Gemini and Libra, may not provide the consistency that Scorpio seeks in a partner due their airy nature. What’s more, the air signs may find Scorpio to be too emotional or sensitive. Scorpio and Leo may also experience power struggles in their relationship, as they are both stubborn and set in their ways, says Newman. As a result, “both will be unable to comprehend one another, as they tend to believe they are correct in their thinking and actions, and haven’t done harm, and are generally resistant towards accepting the views of others.”

Sagittarius

The signs most compatible with Sagittarius: Aries, Leo, Libra

Sagittarius is known for their love of adventure and exploration, often seeking thrills in search of knowledge, understanding, and truth. Aries and Leo can understand and appreciate Sagittarius’ traits, as they intrinsically understand and can match the archer’s fiery passion and spontaneous nature. Libra is compatible with Sagittarius, too. Elementally speaking, Libra and Sagittarius can complement one another. “They’re each other’s biggest cheerleaders and enjoy seeing the other achieve great things,” Newman told Well+Good. They are also similar zodiac signs in that they have a zest for life, and they thrive on new experiences and social connection.

The signs least compatible with Sagittarius: Taurus, Cancer, Virgo

Not everyone will appreciate Sagittarius’ freedom-loving nature, including earth signs Taurus and Virgo, who are practical by nature and prefer to take things step-by-steady-step. “Sagittarius is adventurous, unexpected, and impulsive, whereas Taurus is slow, calm, and stable,” Newman told Well+Good. As mentioned earlier, Virgo might be put off by Sagittarius’ easygoing spontaneity, while Sagittarius may not understand Virgo’s analytical and forward-thinking behavior. Cancer may also not understand Sagittarius’ personality. According to Newman, “they dislike Sagittarius’ gregarious and adventurous character, and instead value family most, and so they frequently expect their spouse to spend time with them.”

Capricorn

The signs most compatible with Capricorn: Taurus, Cancer, Virgo

Self-motivated, ambitious, and hardworking are a few of Capricorn’s key traits—and some of these qualities are shared, or if not, appreciated by fellow earth signs Taurus and Virgo, which is why they are typically compatible with Capricorn. According to Newman, Taurus is one of Capricorn’s finest soulmates. Taurus is “reliable and faithful,” she told Well+Good, which is typically what Cap seeks for in a partner. As for Virgo? “Both zodiac signs are wise, and for each other, they are both dependable and trustworthy,” she says. In addition, Cancer can make an ideal partner for Capricorn. Newman says that Cancer can offer comfort and care to a Capricorn, whileCapricorns can offer Cancer stability and security—which are all the makings of a healthy relationship.

The signs least compatible with Capricorn: Aries, Leo, Gemini

Conversely, fire signs Aries and Leo won’t always make a compatible zodiac match for the sea-goat. Aries won’t typically have much in common with Capricorn, as they can be “obstinate, hasty, and rash,” says Newman, “whereas Capricorn is calm and collected.” As for a Capricorn and Leo pairing? “They are continually in competition with one another, and there aren’t similarities between the two, as in the case between Aries,” she says. Gemini might also be a mismatch for Capricorn as they have opposing approaches to love and life. Newman explains: “Capricorn prefers the conventional approach to love, while Gemini enjoys new experiences, meeting new people and seeking adventures.”

Aquarius

The signs most compatible with Aquarius: Aries, Gemini, Sagittarius

The unique snowflakes of the zodiac wheel Aquarius’ traits often include their out-of-the box thinking and independent nature. It’s why fellow air sign Gemini is typically compatible with Aquarius, as the twin sign can match the water bearer’s communication style and respect their need for independence and individuality. Fire signs Aries and Sagittarius can also make an interesting match for Aquarius. Newman told Well+Good that Aries and Aquarius will have much in common in terms of how they connect and view relationships, as they are similarly honest and upfront. Sagittarius and Aquarius are also similar zodiac signs in that they are free-spirited and value autonomy.

The signs least compatible with Aquarius: Cancer, Virgo, Pisces

Conversely, Cancer and Virgo are typically among the least compatible zodiac signs for Aquarius. The water signs are known to be highly emotional and sensitive, which is the exact opposite of Aquarius, who is analytical and rational in most aspects of life. With this in mind, Aquarius might find the water signs to be too overbearing. Aquarius might also struggle to find commonality with Virgo. Plus, Virgo has a tendency to be hard on their partners. According to Newman, their tendency to be hypercritical may not sit well with Aquarius, even if it often comes from a well-meaning place. Aquarius might view it as judgmental and unaccepting, and even more so if the water bearer hasn’t emotionally opened up to their partner yet.

Pisces

The signs most compatible with Pisces: Taurus, Cancer, Virgo

Empathetic and sensitive to those emotions of their loved ones, and sometimes to a fault, fellow water sign Cancer can make an ideal zodiac match for Pisces. Cancer intrinsically understands and relates to Pisces’ traits. “Cancer, like Pisces, is a water sign, so a relationship can result in excellent communication and peace,” Newman previously told Well+Good. Taurus and Virgo are also compatible with Pisces, as they can provide a grounding energy for the fish. Plus, Taurus is “thoughtful, sensual, and passionate,” says Newman, which are qualities that Pisces seeks in a partner. Virgo can keep dreamy Pisces grounded, while Pisces can provide Virgo with love and attention. “When they combine their strengths, they balance each other out,” she says.

The signs least compatible with Pisces: Aries, Gemini, Aquarius

Aries can make a tough match for Pisces, according to Newman. “Aries people are reckless and do not ponder before acting, and as a result, they may repeatedly and negligently harm Pisces’ feelings,” she says. Typically, Pisces are also incompatible with air signs Gemini and Aquarius. [Pisces is] creative and slow-paced, and it can be irritating for [them] to try to connect with a Gemini as they’re energetic and quick by nature. It’s difficult for [Pisces] to communicate with and understand or be understood by Gemini.” Lettman told Well+Good. “Aquarius would struggle to deal with Pisces’ emotional side,” says Newman. In addition, “Aquarius likes to be free and gregarious, and Pisces is more grounded and patient, so both partners may be unable to comprehend each other.”

Can incompatible zodiac signs work?

Of course there is hope, because a zodiac sign doesn’t paint the entire picture of who a person is. And also your sun sign only tells part of your zodiac compatibility. “Sun-moon compatibility between two people is often more significant than sun-sun connections,” McCarthy says. That’s because your sun sign is your basic day-to-day personality, and your moon sign refers to your emotions. (Run a full natal-chart report here for all the details.) So, basically, if you want to know if you and your date are truly compatible, astrologically speaking, check the date, place, and time of their birth to compute their moon sign. (Totally normal first date questions.)

Or, you know, you could just feel it out and see how things go.

Frequently asked questions

Are any zodiac signs incompatible?

According to standard compatibility horoscopes, some zodiac signs are more compatible than others. However, this isn’t to say that “incompatible” zodiac signs can’t work. People are nuanced and it’s possible to get along, even if your stars don’t align perfectly.

Can the same zodiac sign date each other?

The same zodiac sign can date, but as with any relationship, it will involve challenges. Take, for instance, Pisces. According to astrologer Tenae Stewart in a previous interview with Well+Good, two Pisces will share the same emotional depth. However, as Pisces typically struggle with boundaries, they can lose themselves in the other.

Which zodiac signs act like each other?

Typically, zodiac signs that share an astrological element will typically have the same temperament. In addition, zodiac signs that also have the same astrological modality might also have inherent similarities in terms of their behavior.

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