How to Change Hinge Location in 2024: Get Accurate Matches
Reading time: 21 min
Updated on January 21, 2024
Hinge uses a complex algorithm to show you potential matches. Among other things, the algorithm uses Facebook data to show you people that you have mutual friends with. However, unlike many other dating apps, you can change your location manually rather than the app using your IP address to determine it.
Unfortunately, Hinge does gather some of your data (including your IP address) and shares it with third parties. When using a dating app, privacy is definitely a concern. Thankfully, you can use a VPN to keep your data private.
I tested over 50 VPNs with Hinge, and I found that ExpressVPN is the best. It has the strongest security features and fastest speeds of any VPN tested. You can get ExpressVPN risk-free, as it includes a 30-day money-back guarantee to give you peace of mind. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Quick Guide: 3 Easy Steps to Change Location on Hinge
- Get a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because it’s the fastest and most secure VPN for Hinge.
- Connect to a server. Choose a server in your desired location.
- That’s it! Now, you can change your location on Hinge and get accurate matches.
The Best VPNs to Change Location on Hinge (Tested 2024)
1. ExpressVPN — The Fastest, Most Secure VPN for Hinge
Key Features:
- At least 3,000 servers in 105 countries to connect to Hinge
- Connect up to 8 devices at the same time
- Dedicated apps for mobile devices (iOS and Android) and desktop
- Get customer support via 24/7 live chat, email, and online guides
- A generous 30-day money-back guarantee available
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for using Hinge from any location. Its proprietary Lightway protocol balances super-fast speeds (the highest of any premium VPN I tested) with a level of security that’s trusted by the US military. All of ExpressVPN’s 3,000 servers encrypt your traffic with AES 256-bit ciphers, so no unauthorized third parties can see what you’re doing on Hinge.
ExpressVPN’s encryption level is backed up by powerful data leak prevention measures. Its leak protection ensured no IP address, DNS, or WebRTC information was exposed in my tests. There are also many other useful features to keep you private and secure on dating apps, including:
- Perfect Forward Secrecy — regularly changes your encryption key so that your online dating activity won’t be accessible to hackers.
- Obfuscated servers — disguise your VPN traffic as regular traffic, so you can access your Hinge account from anywhere, on any network.
- RAM-based servers — automatically delete all data at the end of each browsing session, so your data isn’t stored anywhere.
- Network Lock kill switch — terminates your internet session instantly if your device loses connection to the VPN to prevent any accidental IP address exposure.
- No-logs policy — ExpressVPN’s no-data-logging policy has been verified by audits from respected firms like PriceWaterhouseCoopers, KPMG, and Cure53.
- Privacy-friendly jurisdiction — ExpressVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, which isn’t part of any data-sharing agreements like the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances.
While all VPNs reduce your connection speeds (since your traffic is routed through an additional server), the slowdown with ExpressVPN was only 4%. Even on a server over 3,000 miles away in New York, my speed only dropped by 9%. This meant I could see what matches were available there before my upcoming trip, and even message back and forth super-quickly.
I tried out ExpressVPN with other dating apps and sites too. On ExpressVPN’s Android app, I was able to connect to overseas servers in seconds to change my location on the Tinder and Bumble apps and see new matches. The desktop app is just as convenient, which is great if you like to use sites like Match, Plenty of Fish, and eHarmony on your PC or Mac.
While ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Hinge, it’s also one of the most expensive — the best value comes at $4.99 a month with the 2-year + 6 months free plan. However, I think it’s worth it for the peace of mind its excellent security provides. If you’re on iOS, you can even get a 7-day free trial.
All plans also include a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you don’t need to worry in case you decide to opt for a different VPN instead. To claim a refund, you can message the 24/7 live chat customer support feature. When I tested this out, I had my money back in my account in only 4 days.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
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2. CyberGhost — Internally-Owned Servers Keep Your Dating Activity Private
Key Features:
- Choose from 11,670+ servers in 100 countries
- Lets you connect 7 devices simultaneously
- Apps for mobile devices and desktop
- Get customer support via 24/7 live chat, email, and online tutorials
- 45-day refund policy
CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers are excellent at ensuring your dating activity remains private. These servers are exclusively owned and managed by CyberGhost, with no third-party data centers involved. This means only CyberGhost staff can access them, ensuring the utmost security. These servers are also RAM-based, so none of your data is stored after each session.
There are plenty of other benefits for security and privacy too. CyberGhost uses robust AES-256 encryption, and its data leak protection performed brilliantly in tests — revealing no DNS or IP address information. CyberGhost also includes:
- WiFi Protection — automatically secures your connection when you connect to WiFi. You can also set a rule that it connects to a server as soon as you open Hinge.
- Dedicated IP addresses — for a little extra money, you can buy your own dedicated IP address to use for online dating.
- Automatic kill switch — immediately halts your internet traffic in case the VPN disconnects to stop your real IP address from being exposed to Hinge or online snoopers.
- Romanian jurisdiction — CyberGhost is based in Romania, which isn’t part of any intelligence-sharing alliances.
- Strict no-logs policy — audited and verified by Deloitte, this policy ensures your data is safe with CyberGhost.
In leak tests, CyberGhost revealed none of my data
I put CyberGhost’s mobile app to the test with other dating apps like Bumble and Tinder, and they performed flawlessly. The desktop app also works well with sites like Match and eHarmony. Each version of CyberGhost’s app is intuitive, and you can change server location by simply clicking on one of the listed countries.
Internet speeds are crucial when using dating apps like Hinge. Although the speed of distant servers can be unpredictable, my slowdown was only 5% from the base speed on local CyberGhost servers. This means you can talk to your matches without interruption, even while you’re running other bandwidth-heavy apps.
You can try CyberGhost for just $2.03 a month with the 2-year + 4 months plan. There’s also a generous 45-day refund policy, which I tested by messaging the 24/7 live chat function. The customer support agent approved the refund with no questions asked, and then it was processed in just 2 minutes. My money was returned the same week.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
3. Private Internet Access — The Largest Number of Servers to Access Hinge
Key Features:
- 35,000+ servers in 91 countries — the most servers of any top VPN
- Allows unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Apps for iOS, Android, and more
- Customer support available via 24/7 live chat, email, X/Twitter, and online knowledge base
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Private Internet Access (PIA) has 35,000+ servers to match your chosen Hinge location. This is the most extensive server network of any top VPN I’ve tested. This means you won’t find yourself on overcrowded, sluggish servers when using Hinge, ensuring a smooth experience.
On 3 of PIA’s New York servers, my speeds only dropped by 14%, so I could respond to messages from my matches without any delays. I used the app while also listening to music on YouTube and downloading a file, and my speeds were high enough to do all without lag or buffering.
PIA’s mobile apps work excellently with Hinge and other apps like Tinder. Additionally, PIA’s PC and Mac apps proved highly compatible with various other dating sites, offering versatility for your online dating needs.
Although PIA’s built-in MACE ad, tracker, and malware blocker works excellently on Android devices, it unfortunately isn’t available on the iOS version of the app. Thankfully, there are many other useful security and privacy features that work on Apple devices too, like:
- Military-grade encryption — protects your Hinge data with the strongest ciphers available (although you do need to select 256-bit encryption manually as 128-bit is the default).
- Data leak protection — ensures that none of your data leaks through encryption protocols and becomes visible to hackers.
- Dedicated IP addresses — for an extra monthly cost, you can get dedicated IP addresses for using dating apps like Hinge.
- Strict no-logs policy — verified by Deloitte that it doesn’t save your data, so you can never be traced.
If you want to get PIA just for a while, it has one of the cheapest premium VPN monthly plans. I recommend the 2-year + 2 months plan, which is very affordable at $2.19 a month. It’s easy to get a refund with PIA, too — you just need to send a support ticket via the website’s online portal. When I tried this, I had my money back in just 5 days.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
PIA works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
4. NordVPN — Double VPN Feature Gives Extra Anonymity for Online Dating
Key Features:
- Over 6,300 servers in 111 countries
- Connect 10 devices at the same time
- Android, iOS, PC, and Mac apps
- 24/7 live chat, email support, and online knowledge base for customer support
- 30-day money-back guarantee
NordVPN’s Double VPN option gives you an additional layer of protection when you’re using Hinge. It routes your internet traffic through 2 servers instead of 1, which can be extremely useful if keeping your identity private from snoopers is your priority when you’re online dating.
Even if you don’t enable this feature, NordVPN encrypts your data with 256-bit ciphers to keep you private on Hinge. There’s also reliable leak protection, as well as these features:
- Automatic kill switch — stop any of your data from leaking if your VPN connection is interrupted.
- No-logs policy — verified by PwC that it doesn’t save any of your data.
- Panama jurisdiction — NordVPN is based in Panama, one of the most privacy-friendly countries on Earth.
The extensive server network (6,300+ servers across 111 different countries) and fast speeds ensure fast response times, wherever the location of the person you’re chatting to. A New York server was more than fast enough for me to swipe through potential matches while also downloading a file and listening to Spotify.
While the mobile app works well with Hinge on both Android and iOS, it’s worth noting that NordVPN’s dedicated IP addresses aren’t yet available on mobile. However, mobile users still benefit from military-grade encryption and the other robust security features mentioned earlier.
It only costs $2.99 each month to get NordVPN with the 2-year + 3 months plan. If you’re on Android, you can also get a 7-day free trial. NordVPN’s subscription plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee — I tested this refund policy using the 24/7 live chat and got my money back within the week.
NordVPN works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Nvidia Shield, Chromecast, Android TVs, routers, and more.
5. Surfshark — IP Rotator Makes it Harder for Third Parties to See Your Hinge Activities
Key Features:
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
- Allows unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Mobile and desktop apps
- Get help via email, support tickets, 24/7 live chat, or online FAQs
- 30-day refund policy
Surfshark’s IP Rotator feature keeps your Hinge data private by automatically changing your IP address regularly. This makes it very difficult for hackers or any other unauthorized third parties to track your activity, wherever you are.
Speeds are fast with Surfshark. I only had a 20% slowdown on a New York server, so swiping and messaging matches weren’t interrupted at all. Updates were also quick, even when I was downloading other files at the same time.
It was very easy to switch locations with Surfshark’s Android app — you just select “Location” and choose from the list. The desktop app is similarly intuitive if you want to use Surfshark with popular dating sites like OKCupid and Match on your PC or Mac.
Sadly, Surfshark is headquartered in the Netherlands, which is part of the 9 Eyes Alliance. Thankfully, this shouldn’t matter — the VPN has a no-logs policy, uses 256-bit encryption, and also includes privacy and security features like:
- Camouflage Mode — obfuscates VPN traffic to look like regular internet traffic to any potential snoopers.
- Dedicated IP addresses — a personal IP address just for you, available for an extra monthly fee.
- CleanWeb — a built-in ad, malware, and tracker blocker that keeps you private on Hinge.
A Surfshark subscription costs $1.99 a month with the 2-year + 4 months plan, and there’s a 7-day free trial available for its iOS and Android apps. What’s more, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested this policy by contacting the 24/7 live chat, and I had my money back in my account in 1 week.
Surfshark works with: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Xbox, Firefox, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, Nvidia Shield, Chromecast, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs to Change Location on Hinge
| VPN | Global Servers | Simultaneous Device Connections | Dedicated IP addresses | Monthly price of best plan | Money-Back Guarantee |
| ExpressVPN | 3,000+ servers in 105 countries | 8 | ✘ | $4.99 a month | 30 days |
| CyberGhost | 11,670+ servers in 100 countries | 7 | Paid add-on | $2.03 a month | 45 days |
| PIA | 35,000+ servers in 91 countries | Unlimited | Paid add-on | $2.19 a month | 30 days |
| NordVPN | 6,300+ servers in 111 countries | 10 | ✘ | $2.99 a month | 30 days |
| Surfshark | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | Unlimited | Paid add-on | $1.99 a month | 30 days |
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Why You Need a VPN for Hinge
Privacy is particularly important when it comes to dating. Like many other apps, Hinge tracks certain data — your IP address, network data, and device ID. They’re upfront about this in their data collection policies, where they mention the possibility of sharing this information with partners and service providers.
Hinge does allow you to tweak your settings within the app, but I recommend using a VPN as well as changing data-sharing settings. This gives you an extra layer of protection. It masks your real IP address, making it harder for anyone to trace your online activities back to you. Even if Hinge shares data, it’s not linked to your true location or identity.
Encrypting Hinge data is especially critical if you’re on public Wi-Fi networks. On public networks, data can be more easily intercepted by cybercriminals. A VPN ensures that your sensitive personal conversations with matches and data remain private.
How to Manually Change Your Hinge Location
To change your location on the iOS and Android Hinge apps:
- Connect to a VPN server in your chosen location.
It was easy for me to choose and connect to a server on ExpressVPN’s Android app![A screenshot showing ExpressVPN's Android app interface, with the user connected to a server in New York]()
- Select the pencil icon by your name in the Hinge app, then “Edit”, then “Vitals”.
- Select the toggle icon next to “Location” and type in your chosen location (make sure it matches the location of the VPN server you’re connected to). You can also let it automatically detect your location based on your IP address by enabling Location Permission.
If you’re connected to a VPN server, you can let Hinge locate you based on this IP address![A screenshot showing ExpressVPN's Android app interface, and Hinge's interface with Location Permission enabled]()
- If you’re on Android, select the circle icon next to “Visible on Profile” if you want your new location to be displayed to other Hinge users.
- Select the less-than icon and then “Done” to save your new location.
How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for Hinge
I followed a rigorous testing process to find the best VPNs for changing your location on Hinge. Here are the criteria I used to test each VPN:
- Large server networks — I chose VPNs with a large network that lets you choose from more countries, increasing your chances of finding the ideal location for your Hinge profile.
- Strong security and privacy features — I looked for VPNs with robust features like military-grade 256-bit encryption to keep your data secure, and leak protection to prevent any accidental information exposure.
- Compatibility with mobile devices — I only included VPNs with iOS and Android apps since Hinge is primarily a mobile app.
- Fast speeds — I tested VPNs to ensure they offer fast and reliable connections, so you can enjoy smooth browsing and communication on the platform.
- Customer support — I checked for VPNs that provide 24/7 live chat support, ensuring you can get help whenever you need it, no matter where you are.
- Money-back guarantee — I specifically looked for VPNs with refund policies of 30 days or more, giving you the confidence to try the service without worrying.
FAQs: VPNs and Hinge
Does Hinge update my location automatically?
No, Hinge doesn’t update your location automatically. You change your Hinge location manually, and the app presents potential matches based on your selected location. This is different from apps like Tinder, which use your IP address to determine your location and show you potential matches.
While using a VPN isn’t necessary to change your Hinge location, it’s still advisable for added security. A VPN can let you use Hinge without providing the app with personal data such as your real IP address.
Can I use a free VPN with Hinge?
No, I recommend using a premium VPN with Hinge to maintain your online privacy and security. While free VPNs may be tempting (and there are some pretty good free VPNs), opting for a premium VPN is a better choice for ensuring your safety and anonymity while using the app. Premium VPNs have stronger encryption, more security features, and higher speeds than free ones.
Can I change my Hinge location?
Yes, you can easily change your location on Hinge. Go to Settings > Edit > Vitals and select the toggle icon by “Location”, then type in your location. I recommend using a high-quality VPN too to protect your privacy, especially in places where unauthorized third parties may spy on your online traffic and activity. Hinge also tracks your data unless you encrypt it with a VPN.
Does Hinge track you?
Yes, Hinge tracks your IP address, device ID, and network data, as stated in its privacy policy. This data may be shared with Hinge’s partners and service providers. To ensure full online privacy and security, I recommend using a VPN — on Hinge and on any other app you use.
Can you hide your location on Hinge?
Yes, you can hide your exact location from other users by deselecting the circle icon next to “Visible on Profile”. You can also use a VPN like ExpressVPN to hide your real IP address from the Hinge app.
Can you use Hinge while traveling?
Yes, you can use Hinge while traveling. The best VPNs on the market will also keep you safe online wherever you travel. To see potential Hinge matches close to you, you’ll need to change your location in the Hinge app to match your real location.
If you have a VPN, you can also connect to a server and then enable Location Permission in the Hinge app and let it detect your location. Depending on the location of the server you choose, this could be your home, the location you’re traveling in, or anywhere else.
Do you lose matches if you change your Hinge location?
No, changing your Hinge location doesn’t affect your existing matches and conversations. You’ll still be able to talk to anyone you’ve already matched with or messaged. However, changing your location changes the new potential matches you see. This means you can meet new people while maintaining conversations with previous matches.
Get a VPN to Change Your Hinge Location Today!
While Hinge allows you to change your location within the app, I strongly recommend pairing it with a VPN. Hinge does store some of your data unless you encrypt it. Using a VPN adds an extra layer of security, ensuring your online activities remain private.
Among all the options I tested, ExpressVPN stands out as the best choice for Hinge users. It offers exceptional speeds, top-notch security features, and has servers in 105 countries, allowing you to match your Hinge app location precisely. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can get ExpressVPN with peace of mind.
Summary — The Best VPNs to Change Location on Hinge in 2024
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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