The Top 5 Leading Matchmaking Firms in the U.S.

Feb 20, 2025

Kelleher International

Founded in 1986 by Jill Kelleher, this San Francisco-based agency has built a reputation for pairing high-profile clients and business executives. Serving a greater number of female clients than male, Kelleher has established itself as leader in matching successful and upscale women. Kelleher offers a wide range of matchmaking options that span local, national, and international searches. Clients have the option of working directly with Jill or her daughter, Amber Kelleher-Andrews, depending on their package level.

  • Headquarters: San Francisco, CA
  • Clientele: Mostly female, high income, high net-worth, including celebrities and CEOs.
  • Services: Local, national, and international matchmaking services.
  • Cost: $30,000 – $300,000+ (depending on the scope of the search).
  • Duration: 1 to 3 years, with up to 12 months of “hold” time.
  • Process: Clients are matched from a database of 50,000 profiles, and higher-level packages include personalized scouting.

The Standard Agency

The Standard Agency takes matchmaking to an exclusive level, branding itself as a private club rather than a traditional dating service. It has found itself a favorite among men, including high-profile clients, business executives and celebrities. Membership is tightly screened, with services tailored specifically for higher income and high-net-worth individuals. The agency focuses on quality over quantity, offering highly personalized services designed to find the perfect match for each client. With a strong emphasis on confidentiality and discretion, The Standard Agency positions itself as a go-to for those seeking both privacy and premium matchmaking.

  • Headquarters: Nationwide (private membership).
  • Clientele: 90% male. High-profile individuals, including celebrities and CEOS.
  • Services: Nationwide elite matchmaking services using data and human intelligence
  • Cost: Customized pricing based on the client’s needs.
  • Duration: 6 months to 2 years with options available.
  • Process: Exclusive services for select clients focused on confidentiality and tailored matchmaking to a curated roster of selected singles.

Vida Select

Vida Select has quickly made a name for itself in matchmaking. Unlike traditional agencies, Vida Select caters to a broader audience by combining online dating expertise with elite matchmaking services. Vida Select emphasizes efficiency, using a data driven approach to  pair clients with the most compatible matches based on their specific preferences. The service is known for its transparent pricing and modern matchmaking approach, making it a popular choice for busy professionals.

  • Headquarters: Nationwide (remote services).
  • Clientele: Professionals and high-net-worth individuals.
  • Services: Online dating assistance combined with traditional matchmaking.
  • Cost: $695 – $2,895+ per month, depending on the package.
  • Duration: Month-to-month memberships.
  • Process: Data-driven matchmaking with ongoing support, optimizing matches based on user feedback and preferences.

Selective Search

Selective Search is a highly regarded matchmaking service founded by Barbie Adler in 2000. Based in Chicago, Selective Search serves a national clientele and is known for working with high-profile men seeking long-term relationships. Selective Search uses a combination of executive recruitment techniques and personalized matchmaking to ensure a high success rate. The agency limits its active client base to maintain an intimate, one-on-one approach, focusing on in-depth interviews and personalized service.

  • Headquarters: Chicago, IL
  • Clientele: Successful men looking for committed relationships.
  • Services: Tailored matchmaking services with a local, national, or international focus.
  • Cost: $25,000 – $1,000,000 depending on the scope of the search.
  • Duration: 12 months, with up to 10 matches.
  • Process: In-depth interview and creation of a personalized “Benchmarks” document, with feedback provided after each match.

Tawkify

Tawkify is a more accessible matchmaking service that operates across the U.S., offering personalized matchmaking at various price points. What sets Tawkify apart is its emphasis on affordability without sacrificing the personalized experience. Clients are matched by a dedicated matchmaker, and packages are flexible to accommodate different budgets. Tawkify’s network spans across the country, making it a viable option for those in areas where other elite agencies may not operate.

  • Headquarters: Nationwide (remote services).
  • Clientele: Professionals and individuals across the U.S.
  • Services: Personalized matchmaking with a large network of singles.
  • Cost: $3,000 – $70,000 depending on the package.
  • Duration: Varies by package.
  • Process: One-on-one matchmaking, with ongoing feedback to refine matches over time.

Comparison Table of Major Differences:

AgencyCost RangeDurationClienteleLocationProcess
Kelleher International$30,000 – $300,000+1 to 3 yearsHigh-profile individuals, celebritiesSan Francisco (Global)Tailor packages for discerning clients. Personal scouting for higher packages.
The Standard Agency$25,000 – $100,000VariesHigh-net-worth individualsNewport Beach, CA Nationwide (private club)Invitation-only, private, and tailored matchmaking services. Emphasis on elite male clients.
Vida Select$695 – $2,895+ per monthMonth-to-monthBusy professionals, high-net-worthNationwide (remote)Data-driven, feedback-based matchmaking with online dating assistance
Selective Search$25,000 – $1,00,00012 monthsSuccessful men looking for long-termChicago (National)Personalized “Benchmarks” document and post-date feedback
Tawkify$3,000 – $70,000Varies by packageProfessionals across the U.S.Nationwide (remote)One-on-one matchmaking, flexible pricing options based on individual needs

This comparison outlines the major differences in terms of pricing, process, and target clientele for each of these top matchmaking agencies in America.