Key Findings<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n- Cities with the highest rates of ghosting include Washington, D.C.<\/strong>, Tampa<\/strong>, San Francisco<\/strong>, Austin<\/a><\/strong>, and Las Vegas<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The most common reasons for ghosting someone include conflict avoidance<\/strong> (50%), toxic behavior<\/strong> (21%), and lack of mutual effort in the relationship<\/strong> (8%). <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Only one-quarter have reconciled with someone who ghosted them and resumed their relationship.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Gen Z is the most likely generation to ghost a potential employer<\/strong> during the hiring or interview process. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Ghosting Across the Nation: Cities With the Highest Ghosting Rates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ghosting isn\u2019t just a modern-day phenomenon \u2014 it\u2019s a nationwide trend. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to our survey, the cities with the highest rates of ghosting are led by Washington, D.C., where a staggering 76% of respondents admitted to ghosting someone within the last 12 months. Following closely behind are Tampa<\/strong> (72.9%), San<\/strong> Francisco<\/strong> (68.1%), Austin<\/strong> (63.3%), and Las<\/strong> Vegas<\/strong> (60.0%).<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Highest](\"https:\/\/www.numberbarn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/AD_4nXeqs6OF7nKYGGLUsNOtd61lA6nAtkD-ihtwEeUC8IRazaXv3CwRoqeJxs8rtpUTaxpWrJnB1q3hnbZyEbhJwhmq7lBx7B5mX_7gT8jIprI31DdziBy8PwXOCqTNDleJtt2gpC7mKQ.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Washington D.C.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tampa, FL<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- San Francisco, CA<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Austin, TX<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Las Vegas, NV<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- San Diego, CA<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Memphis, TN<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Houston, TX<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- San Antonio, TX<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Chicago, IL<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Detroit, MI<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Louisville, KY<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Oklahoma City, OK<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Atlanta, GA<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Columbus, OH<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Along with Austin, two other Texas cities ranked within the top 10: Houston<\/strong> (56.3%) and San<\/strong> Antonio<\/strong> (56.3%). These findings highlight ghosting as a behavior that transcends coastlines and cultural hubs.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhy does D.C. top the charts? Residents of the nation\u2019s capital not only report the highest prevalence of ghosting but also the highest frequency. On average, D.C. respondents say they\u2019ve ghosted 5.1 people within the last year \u2014 more than any other city in our analysis. And it\u2019s not just one-sided. D.C. residents also report being ghosted an average of 3.4 times in the same timeframe, making it not only the political capital of America, but also the nation\u2019s ghosting capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"table](\"https:\/\/public.flourish.studio\/visualisation\/21258512\/thumbnail\")
<\/div>\n\n\n\nGhosting Statistics: How Common is Ghosting?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Have you ever been ghosted by someone you know? If so, you\u2019re not alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A majority of respondents (65%) say they\u2019ve been ghosted in a personal, professional, or dating context at least once in the past 12 months. On average, respondents report being ghosted three times within that same time frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Ghosting](\"https:\/\/www.numberbarn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/AD_4nXexordRIi399ktrxyIiAP0_GX1Cj_umpapUqBGrNpm4-l5Uynob6P8tumykOKcZwalM6S_qF6LK-7UbqV5_RxZoeRmDe2aZ454EAfv_bCo3V1KVcN-qlVZS1dZbm8Yjlb28j6HqaQ.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHow Long Is Too Long? When People Consider Themselves Ghosted<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nFor most, it takes about three unanswered attempts<\/a> to reach out before they decide they\u2019ve been ghosted. Respondents cite the most common reasons for ghosting someone as conflict avoidance<\/strong> (50%), toxic behavior<\/strong> (21%), and a lack of mutual effort in the relationship<\/strong> (8%).<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to timing, over one in four (27%) say they wait about a month without any contact before labeling the situation as ghosting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How Common Is Ghosting in Dating?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nGhosting has become a pervasive part of modern dating, with 75% of singles admitting they\u2019ve been ghosted by someone they were dating or chatting with on a dating app<\/strong>, according to survey respondents. While enduring the silent treatment is common, fewer people admit to dishing it out \u2014 only 50% say they\u2019ve ghosted someone themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\nInterestingly, men report being ghosted slightly more often than women, with 77% of single males saying they\u2019ve experienced it, compared to 72% of females. When it comes to admitting they\u2019ve ghosted someone in a dating context, 46% of males and 55% of females say they have ghosted someone they were dating or chatting with on a dating app.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"More](\"https:\/\/www.numberbarn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/AD_4nXcr4KkWmqt8z8FyxW_XPVMgU57B1AtlR128X5OutjwAFwrQ35sYyMIGIUezKdkiMzoKhzOU4meMTX3jWg4FiiOgszJzxcDePMDxYBT2Q55nu5CFjvA9q12_tt0p9F8beY4K5XRa.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Do People Ghost When Dating?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to reasons for ghosting within a dating context, the majority of respondents (54%) say they disappeared because they lost interest<\/strong>. Another 28% cite \u201cred flags or dealbreakers<\/strong>\u201d as the driving force behind their decision, such as dishonesty, rude behavior, or incompatibility. Meanwhile, 9% say personal circumstances<\/strong> \u2014 like feeling overwhelmed by life events or stress \u2014 prompted them to cut ties without explanation.<\/p>\n\n\n\nGenerational Ghosting: Who\u2019s Doing It the Most?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nYounger generations are more likely to admit to ghosting in dating contexts. Gen Z leads the pack, with 52% saying they\u2019ve ghosted someone, followed closely by Millennials at 52%. Gen X isn\u2019t far behind at 49%, while Boomers are the least likely to ghost, with 30% acknowledging they\u2019ve done it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These generational trends point to a shifting landscape in how people navigate romantic relationships. For younger generations, ghosting may feel like an easier, less confrontational way to end a connection, while older generations may prioritize more direct communication<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWorkplace Ghosting: A Growing Trend in Hiring<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe professional world is no stranger to ghosting. In fact, more than half (61%) of survey respondents say they\u2019ve been ghosted by a potential employer during the hiring process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether it\u2019s a lack of follow-up after an application, a no-show to a scheduled interview, or silence after a verbal job offer, employer ghosting has become a frustratingly common experience for job seekers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Workplace](\"https:\/\/www.numberbarn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/AD_4nXeFiiddEApXtDkzHkxwDISM90elffj2ckKVB8lBnm1Yxcwp5Pm7PKlF0BDx5bZCZ-oxI_BhKGdAUwbPnYvyJ7iFCcujWfyV77V8CAOwEezFS9LB78pzrbCzpnM-mv1EcEqvideO3A.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Job Candidates Ghost Employers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nBut professional ghosting is not a one-sided issue. Job candidates are ghosting, too, with more than one-third (35%) admitting they\u2019ve ghosted a potential employer<\/strong>. The reasons? Nearly half (49%) say they abruptly ended communication after receiving another job offer, while 28% lost interest in the role altogether, which highlights the importance of clear communication during the hiring process.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to ghosting employers, younger generations are leading the charge. Gen Z tops the list, with 41% admitting to ghosting a potential employer, followed closely by Millennials at 37%. Gen X trails behind at 26%, and Boomers are the least likely to ghost during the hiring process, with only 22% admitting to doing so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These generational differences suggest a shift in workplace expectations and communication styles. Younger job seekers, often navigating competitive job markets, may feel more empowered to prioritize better offers or ignore roles that don\u2019t meet their needs. Meanwhile, older generations, raised with more traditional workplace norms, may approach hiring with greater patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can Ghosted Relationships Be Repaired?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Ghosted](\"https:\/\/www.numberbarn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_3774-1024x1024.webp\")
<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nWhether it\u2019s in the workplace, the dating scene, or between friends and family, clear communication is key to building and maintaining meaningful relationships. Yet, as our survey reveals, ghosting has become a widespread issue in modern communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For many, ghosting leaves little room for reconciliation. In fact, 44% of respondents say they\u2019ve never reconciled with someone who ghosted them<\/strong>. Only one-quarter managed to reconcile and resume their relationship, while 30% say their attempts to reconcile didn\u2019t last. These figures highlight the importance of addressing communication breakdowns early to avoid strained or broken relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTips on How to Avoid or Address Ghosting<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThere are steps you can take to reduce ghosting in your personal and professional life and practice better communication:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Set Expectations Early<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhether you\u2019re in the hiring process, starting a new relationship, or reconnecting with a friend, being upfront about your communication style and expectations can help minimize misunderstandings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Follow Up Thoughtfully<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf someone hasn\u2019t responded, give them a reasonable amount of time before reaching out again. Three follow-ups without a response is generally a good rule of thumb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Practice Empathy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nGhosting can sometimes be unintentional. Consider sending a message to check in before assuming the worst.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Embrace Direct Communication<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAvoid ghosting others by practicing honesty, even when it\u2019s uncomfortable. A kind but straightforward message can go a long way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stay Connected with the Right Tools <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nPlatforms like NumberBarn can help you manage your communication effectively<\/a>, whether it\u2019s keeping a professional number for work contacts or separating personal from professional conversations.<\/p>\n\n\n\nGhosting may be a sign of the times, but with a little effort, it\u2019s possible to build stronger, more transparent communication in your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Methodology <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIn January 2025, we surveyed 1,510 American residents of the 30 largest metropolitan areas in the country. Survey respondents were asked about the prevalence and frequency of ghosting in their personal, professional, and dating lives, if applicable. We used the prevalence of ghosting within the last 12 months in order to rank each city. To maintain accuracy, we identified and excluded outliers using the Interquartile Range (IQR) method, ensuring that extreme responses did not skew the averages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Demographics <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe survey respondents included 54% females, 45% males, and 1% identifying as non-binary\/non-conforming. The average age of the respondents was 38 years. Limitations: The survey responses rely on self-reporting, which may be subject to recall bias or social desirability bias.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sources<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n <\/strong>U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey<\/a>, Pew Research Center<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nFair Use<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When using this data and research, please attribute by linking to this study and citing https:\/\/www.numberbarn.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nMedia Inquiries<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nFor media inquiries, contact media@numberbarn.com<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n
Ghosting Across the Nation: Cities With the Highest Ghosting Rates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ghosting isn\u2019t just a modern-day phenomenon \u2014 it\u2019s a nationwide trend. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to our survey, the cities with the highest rates of ghosting are led by Washington, D.C., where a staggering 76% of respondents admitted to ghosting someone within the last 12 months. Following closely behind are Tampa<\/strong> (72.9%), San<\/strong> Francisco<\/strong> (68.1%), Austin<\/strong> (63.3%), and Las<\/strong> Vegas<\/strong> (60.0%).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Along with Austin, two other Texas cities ranked within the top 10: Houston<\/strong> (56.3%) and San<\/strong> Antonio<\/strong> (56.3%). These findings highlight ghosting as a behavior that transcends coastlines and cultural hubs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Why does D.C. top the charts? Residents of the nation\u2019s capital not only report the highest prevalence of ghosting but also the highest frequency. On average, D.C. respondents say they\u2019ve ghosted 5.1 people within the last year \u2014 more than any other city in our analysis. And it\u2019s not just one-sided. D.C. residents also report being ghosted an average of 3.4 times in the same timeframe, making it not only the political capital of America, but also the nation\u2019s ghosting capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Have you ever been ghosted by someone you know? If so, you\u2019re not alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A majority of respondents (65%) say they\u2019ve been ghosted in a personal, professional, or dating context at least once in the past 12 months. On average, respondents report being ghosted three times within that same time frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For most, it takes about three unanswered attempts<\/a> to reach out before they decide they\u2019ve been ghosted. Respondents cite the most common reasons for ghosting someone as conflict avoidance<\/strong> (50%), toxic behavior<\/strong> (21%), and a lack of mutual effort in the relationship<\/strong> (8%).<\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to timing, over one in four (27%) say they wait about a month without any contact before labeling the situation as ghosting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ghosting has become a pervasive part of modern dating, with 75% of singles admitting they\u2019ve been ghosted by someone they were dating or chatting with on a dating app<\/strong>, according to survey respondents. While enduring the silent treatment is common, fewer people admit to dishing it out \u2014 only 50% say they\u2019ve ghosted someone themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Interestingly, men report being ghosted slightly more often than women, with 77% of single males saying they\u2019ve experienced it, compared to 72% of females. When it comes to admitting they\u2019ve ghosted someone in a dating context, 46% of males and 55% of females say they have ghosted someone they were dating or chatting with on a dating app.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to reasons for ghosting within a dating context, the majority of respondents (54%) say they disappeared because they lost interest<\/strong>. Another 28% cite \u201cred flags or dealbreakers<\/strong>\u201d as the driving force behind their decision, such as dishonesty, rude behavior, or incompatibility. Meanwhile, 9% say personal circumstances<\/strong> \u2014 like feeling overwhelmed by life events or stress \u2014 prompted them to cut ties without explanation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Younger generations are more likely to admit to ghosting in dating contexts. Gen Z leads the pack, with 52% saying they\u2019ve ghosted someone, followed closely by Millennials at 52%. Gen X isn\u2019t far behind at 49%, while Boomers are the least likely to ghost, with 30% acknowledging they\u2019ve done it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These generational trends point to a shifting landscape in how people navigate romantic relationships. For younger generations, ghosting may feel like an easier, less confrontational way to end a connection, while older generations may prioritize more direct communication<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The professional world is no stranger to ghosting. In fact, more than half (61%) of survey respondents say they\u2019ve been ghosted by a potential employer during the hiring process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether it\u2019s a lack of follow-up after an application, a no-show to a scheduled interview, or silence after a verbal job offer, employer ghosting has become a frustratingly common experience for job seekers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But professional ghosting is not a one-sided issue. Job candidates are ghosting, too, with more than one-third (35%) admitting they\u2019ve ghosted a potential employer<\/strong>. The reasons? Nearly half (49%) say they abruptly ended communication after receiving another job offer, while 28% lost interest in the role altogether, which highlights the importance of clear communication during the hiring process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to ghosting employers, younger generations are leading the charge. Gen Z tops the list, with 41% admitting to ghosting a potential employer, followed closely by Millennials at 37%. Gen X trails behind at 26%, and Boomers are the least likely to ghost during the hiring process, with only 22% admitting to doing so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These generational differences suggest a shift in workplace expectations and communication styles. Younger job seekers, often navigating competitive job markets, may feel more empowered to prioritize better offers or ignore roles that don\u2019t meet their needs. Meanwhile, older generations, raised with more traditional workplace norms, may approach hiring with greater patience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether it\u2019s in the workplace, the dating scene, or between friends and family, clear communication is key to building and maintaining meaningful relationships. Yet, as our survey reveals, ghosting has become a widespread issue in modern communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For many, ghosting leaves little room for reconciliation. In fact, 44% of respondents say they\u2019ve never reconciled with someone who ghosted them<\/strong>. Only one-quarter managed to reconcile and resume their relationship, while 30% say their attempts to reconcile didn\u2019t last. These figures highlight the importance of addressing communication breakdowns early to avoid strained or broken relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are steps you can take to reduce ghosting in your personal and professional life and practice better communication:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether you\u2019re in the hiring process, starting a new relationship, or reconnecting with a friend, being upfront about your communication style and expectations can help minimize misunderstandings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If someone hasn\u2019t responded, give them a reasonable amount of time before reaching out again. Three follow-ups without a response is generally a good rule of thumb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ghosting can sometimes be unintentional. Consider sending a message to check in before assuming the worst.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Avoid ghosting others by practicing honesty, even when it\u2019s uncomfortable. A kind but straightforward message can go a long way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Platforms like NumberBarn can help you manage your communication effectively<\/a>, whether it\u2019s keeping a professional number for work contacts or separating personal from professional conversations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ghosting may be a sign of the times, but with a little effort, it\u2019s possible to build stronger, more transparent communication in your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In January 2025, we surveyed 1,510 American residents of the 30 largest metropolitan areas in the country. Survey respondents were asked about the prevalence and frequency of ghosting in their personal, professional, and dating lives, if applicable. We used the prevalence of ghosting within the last 12 months in order to rank each city. To maintain accuracy, we identified and excluded outliers using the Interquartile Range (IQR) method, ensuring that extreme responses did not skew the averages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The survey respondents included 54% females, 45% males, and 1% identifying as non-binary\/non-conforming. The average age of the respondents was 38 years. Limitations: The survey responses rely on self-reporting, which may be subject to recall bias or social desirability bias.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/strong>U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey<\/a>, Pew Research Center<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Fair Use<\/p>\n\n\n\n When using this data and research, please attribute by linking to this study and citing https:\/\/www.numberbarn.com<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For media inquiries, contact media@numberbarn.com<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Ghosting Statistics: How Common is Ghosting?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHow Long Is Too Long? When People Consider Themselves Ghosted<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How Common Is Ghosting in Dating?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Do People Ghost When Dating?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Generational Ghosting: Who\u2019s Doing It the Most?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Workplace Ghosting: A Growing Trend in Hiring<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy Job Candidates Ghost Employers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Can Ghosted Relationships Be Repaired?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nTips on How to Avoid or Address Ghosting<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Set Expectations Early<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Follow Up Thoughtfully<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Practice Empathy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Embrace Direct Communication<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Stay Connected with the Right Tools <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Methodology <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Demographics <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Sources<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Media Inquiries<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n