Unsure of your best match? We asked a professional astrologer to break down the zodiac signs' compatibility so you can find your ideal partner.
Zodiac Signs’ Compatibility: Who You Should and Shouldn’t Date
Updated on Aug. 02, 2024
Zodiac signs’ compatibility made simple
Whether you’re brand new to astrology or a longtime fan of studying how the planets’ movements through the constellations influence us here on Earth, chances are you’ve enjoyed using the practice to not only bolster self-awareness but also learn about zodiac signs’ compatibility. After all, it’s only natural to want to understand how your natal (or birth) astrology influences whether you’ll click or clash with someone else—especially a potential romantic partner. But as an astrologer of over a decade, I urge you to bear in mind just how nuanced the study of zodiac signs’ compatibility really is.
Here’s the thing: When someone asks you, “What’s your sign?” they’re generally referring to the zodiac sign that the sun was moving through on the day of your birth. Your sun sign does nod to your core identity, self-image and confidence, so it’s worth noting, to be sure. And if you go a little bit further, you might share your “big three”: your sun sign, moon sign and rising sign. But those personal placements are just a few features of a very intricate birth chart that covers the whole sky—all of the planets in our solar system, as well as other significant points, nodes, stars and even angles that are set based on the exact time and place you were born.
While it might sound intimidating to dive into all of these details, it’s worth at least casting a free birth chart (more on that later) ahead of studying which zodiac signs are compatible. That way, you’ll get a better sense of the harmony or discord you’ll experience one-on-one. Then read on for valuable intel on the signs that are compatible and those that are more likely to stir up friction—along with valuable lessons or thrilling sparks!
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Aries (March 21–April 19)
The first sign of the zodiac is ruled by Mars, the planet that oversees action, energy, aggression and sex drive. People born with their sun or other personal placements in Aries are extremely driven, impulsive and competitive, often viewing just about everything (including love and romance) as a sport to win or a game to beat. Let’s just say they enjoy running the show—think: planning especially active date nights, like a trip to local batting cages or a sunset run at a scenic spot.
And as the zodiac’s first sign, they can’t help but be playful, wide-eyed and even a little childlike in how they connect with others. So it’s a must for their partner to have a healthy sense of humor, ideally of the slapstick variety.
Most compatible signs
As a fire sign, Aries will hit it off best with someone who has placements in the fellow fire signs: dynamic, charismatic, spotlight-loving Leo and wanderlust-filled, opinionated, jovial Sagittarius. However, all three fire signs really do love being in charge and claiming the limelight at one time or another, so that’s territory they’ll need to be OK with sharing.
Those born under the sign of the ram might also find smooth sailing with a couple of the air signs: buzzy, curious Gemini and people-oriented, rebellious Aquarius.
Least compatible signs
When it comes to the zodiac signs that are the least compatible with Aries, look to the ram’s fellow cardinal signs: sentimental water sign Cancer; diplomatic, balance-seeking air sign Libra; and pragmatic, goal-oriented Capricorn. They may all be take-charge initiators, but because they go about this in such different ways, it can be tough for them to get on the same page. Still, if they’re open to hitting the gas on their dreams in a way that’s not exactly organic for them, a cardinal couple can become a true power couple.
Taurus (April 20–May 20)
People born with their sun or other placements in Taurus—ruled by Venus, the planet of relationships, beauty and values—are deliberate, sensual, loyal and grounded fans of cozy creature comforts and traditions. Known for engaging with the world through all five senses, they prefer to move through life at a fairly easygoing pace, so they’ll be happiest with a partner who also likes to take their sweet time.
Taureans prefer to stick to what they know (theirs is a fixed sign, after all), whether that’s a particular type of food, beloved date night spot or sleep position. So they’ll also do best with a love interest who finds comfort in all things tried and true.
Most compatible signs
Taurus will click the most with fellow earth signs who share their practical, mindful point of view. For example, thoughtful, service- and detail-oriented Virgo is similarly drawn to making lists and planning for the future in a rational way, while industrious, serious Capricorn is happy to take slow, measured steps toward any prize they set their sights on—much like Taurus. For that reason, it’s not uncommon to see earth signs paired up for life.
Those born under the sign of the bull are also apt to find romance with two water signs: sentimental homebody Cancer and poetic, empathic Pisces.
Least compatible signs
The signs that are the least compatible with Taurus are those that share a fixed modality: action-oriented, grandiose Leo; power-seeking, intense Scorpio; and quirky, contrarian Aquarius. Because all of these signs tend to dig their heels in and refuse to move in a different direction, Taurus is likely to find themselves at an impasse when matched with them.
That said, all of the fixed signs are known for being truly resolute, so if they’re absolutely committed to being with each other, they can be a productive and extremely loyal pair.
Gemini (May 21–June 20)
Born under Mercury, the planet of communication, transportation and technology, people who have their sun or other placements in Gemini are highly communicative and curious, preferring to zip from one activity or environment to the next. Being able to connect with a romantic partner on a cerebral level is a must for this mutable air sign. Geminis respond well to animated, lively conversations and information-gathering or learning opportunities. Another plus: Lots of travel. And yes, short-distance road trips count!
Given their Mercury influence, they’ll also never stop adoring witty banter and flirting—even if they’ve been with a partner for years and years.
Most compatible signs
Geminis will find the most harmony with other air signs who share their love of socializing, breeziness and flitting to and from a variety of people-oriented, intellectual experiences. That’s why you’ll often see Geminis partnered up with social butterfly Libra or humanitarian, team-loving Aquarius.
Lighthearted people born under the sign of the twins also enjoy chemistry with the action-oriented, fun-loving fire signs: athletic Aries and theatrical Leo.
Least compatible signs
The signs that Gemini might clash the most with are those who share the twins’ mutability: analytical Virgo and highly emotional Pisces. These two signs are as adaptable as Gemini, to be sure, but their priorities tend to be quite different. Nonetheless, Virgo and Gemini, both ruled by Mercury, might hit it off on an intellectual level, finding that conversation flows like a charm between them. And Pisces can teach Gemini a lot about tuning into their hearts, while Gemini can help Pisces express what’s in theirs.
Sagittarius is opposite Gemini, which could make it tough to get in sync. But they’re both so full of wanderlust that they could find traveling together a source of joy and passion.
Here is a list of ideal places to travel according to your zodiac sign.
Cancer (June 21–July 22)
People born with their sun or other placements in the cardinal water sign—ruled by the intuitive, emotional moon—are sentimental, emotionally intelligent and hilarious. Given their lunar influence, they’re often guided by their feelings in a given moment. So depending on whether they just had a frustrating or exciting day at work, they could show up to a date full of aggravation or elation. They adore taking care of others, and they’ll do well to find a partner who similarly appreciates heartfelt memories and spending quality time with loved ones.
Most compatible signs
Cancer tends to sync up the most with fellow water signs—emotionally intense Scorpio and empathic, psychic Pisces—because they’re similarly creative, compassionate and in tune with their feelings. Those born under the sign of the crab might also find bliss with a similarly thoughtful, sensitive Virgo, who will pay attention to little details, like a lover’s favorite flower or dinner recipe. Crabs can get super cozy with Taureans who are just as apt as they are to stay in to binge a favorite show while enjoying comfort food.
Least compatible signs
The signs that Cancer is least likely to see eye to eye with share the crab’s cardinality: debate-loving Aries and airy Libra. Cancer might struggle to connect to pragmatic cardinal sign Capricorn, but these sister signs could be a match if the two are dedicated to finding work-life balance and understanding each other’s different approaches to emotional self-expression.
Leo (July 23–Aug. 22)
People who have their sun or other personal placements in Leo are charismatic, action-oriented, luxury-loving natural-born leaders who revel in being the center of attention. Sun-ruled Leo is one of the fixed signs, so these folks are extremely loyal and dedicated to sticking with their partner through thick and thin. Because their love language tends to be words of affirmation, and they live for giving and receiving showy, over-the-top displays of affection, Leos need to be with someone who’s equally vocal, passionate and demonstrative in love.
Most compatible signs
Leo will find that sparks fly with fellow fire signs: playful go-getter Aries and adventurous, buoyant Sagittarius. While these matches are classic, they still take work. For harmony to flourish between two fire signs, both parties need to be up for sharing the limelight and taking turns running the show. People born under the sign of the lion will also click with buzzy, people-oriented Gemini and social, beauty-loving Libra.
Least compatible signs
The lions of the zodiac are likely to deal with discord when it comes to fellow fixed signs: traditionalist Taurus and power- and control-seeking Scorpio. This isn’t to say that there can’t be really steamy chemistry for these pairings, but arguments and gridlock may be inevitable.
Leos may also want to rethink romance with Aquarius. Both signs value individualism, which means they might respect each other’s points of view. But keep in mind that these are opposite signs. Because Leos are so self-focused and Aquarians prefer to put the needs of the community over their own desires, these two may be better off as friends.
Virgo (Aug. 23–Sept. 22)
This mutable earth sign is best known for its attention to detail, desire to be helpful to others, work ethic and communication skills. Ruled by messenger Mercury (the planet of communication, transportation and technology), Virgos are savvy information gatherers and often quite self-expressive. People born with their sun or other placements in the sign of the maiden crave relationships with people who are similarly appreciative of the beauty of everyday life and vibrant communication, as well as those who show they care through acts of service.
Most compatible signs
Virgo will click the most with other earth signs: grounded, stable Taurus and hardworking, driven Capricorn. A couple that shares earth as a zodiac element is bound to not only shoot for the stars but also have a thoroughly researched, winning game plan to reach them.
Other great zodiac pairings: fellow Virgos and similarly thoughtful, nurturing Cancers or magnetic, laser-focused Scorpios.
Least compatible signs
Virgos can struggle to get on the same page as Gemini and Sagittarius, the other mutable signs. While they share the maiden’s ability to pivot easily, making it possible to pair up on business endeavors or have fulfilling intellectual debates, their priorities are very different from Virgos’, which can spur a disconnect. Geminis, for instance, are airy and always on the go, while Sagittarians are unfiltered and prefer looking at the big picture.
As for Virgo’s opposite sign? Pisces is all about spirituality, dreams and emotions, while the sign of the maiden is grounded in reality and rationality above all else. This opposition can be intriguing but requires a little extra work when it comes to a long-term relationship.
Libra (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)
Libras love love. Ruled by romantic Venus, the planet of relationships and beauty, this cardinal air sign loves all of the romantic, aesthetically pleasing aspects of life and is on a constant mission to bring more peacefulness and justice into the day. Conflict of any kind is something Libras will go out of their way to avoid, so they’ll do best with a partner who also prioritizes harmony. And because people born with their sun or other placements in the sign of the scales thrive on socializing, hosting and mingling, a similarly people-oriented love interest is a must.
Most compatible signs
Libra is sure to find smooth sailing with another super-social air sign, whether that’s talkative, bubbly Gemini or community-oriented, science-minded Aquarius. They’ll also find they have a lot of fun with a creative, self-expressive, entertaining Leo or globe-trotting, buoyant, unfiltered Sagittarius.
Least compatible signs
People born under the sign of the scales might have a challenging time syncing up with other cardinal signs: heartfelt, sensitive Cancer and driven, down-to-earth Capricorn. While these signs take initiative like Libra, they usually pursue their goals in ways that airy Libra just can’t relate to. They might do best to stick to collaborating on business or keeping things platonic.
Libra’s opposite sign—impulsive, argumentative Aries—can be so different that fiery chemistry is inevitable. But a true Libra, who really abhors rocky waters, might ultimately feel overwhelmed by the ram’s insistence on winning at all costs.
Scorpio (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)
Ruled by go-getter Mars and transformative Pluto, Scorpio is the fixed water sign of the zodiac. People who have their sun or other personal placements in this sign are magnetic, private, commanding, fearless and on a mission to connect with their nearest and dearest in a deeply intimate, emotional way. That said, Scorpios need to be with a partner who isn’t afraid of shedding light on their deepest—and often darkest—secrets and feelings in the name of bonding and getting closer.
A word of caution: Once a Scorpio has committed, they’re all in, so wishy-washy love interests need not apply.
Most compatible signs
Scorpios do best with the other two water signs: family-oriented, nurturing Cancer and compassionate, deeply feeling Pisces. It’s pretty common to see Scorpios paired up with either of the other water signs because they’re innately comfortable with swimming in the deep end of their emotions and usually want to build a romantic, spiritually fulfilling life together. Scorpios also find bliss with thoughtful, detail-oriented Virgos and similarly driven, industrious Capricorns.
Least compatible signs
People born under the sign of the scorpion will clash with other fixed signs: loud and proud Leo and contrarian, aloof Aquarius. Sure, they have the ability to build a bond that lasts—if they’re willing to put in the work—but their shared stubbornness can spur frequent friction.
Taurus, Scorpio’s opposite sign, isn’t the best pick either. They tend to live in the moment and focus on the more practical, rational aspects of life over the deeply emotional ones, so it can be challenging to form the kind of connection Scorpios are looking for.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22–Dec. 21)
The mutable fire sign, Sagittarius is ruled by lucky Jupiter and known for its go-big-or-go-home perspective, desire to see the world, philosophical nature, unfiltered opinions and entertaining, belly-laugh-triggering sense of humor. Those born with their sun or other placements in the sign of the archer crave partnerships with people who are equally adventurous and cool with bold, no-holds-barred takes on everything from religion to the latest Taylor Swift single.
Most compatible signs
Sagittarius will generally find the most joy by pairing up with another fire sign, whether that’s competitive, athletic Aries or fun-loving, theatrical Leo. The asterisk on these pairings is that Sagittarians need to feel like they can claim the spotlight—or, perhaps more accurately, soapbox—when they feel so compelled, and that might not thrill a go-getter Aries or applause-adoring Leo.
As for other compatible zodiac signs? Archers also click with beauty-loving, social Libras and rebellious, quirky Aquarians.
Least compatible signs
People born with planetary placements in Sagittarius might find it challenging to build a lasting romance with one of the other mutable signs: grounded, detail-focused Virgo or emotional, sensitive Pisces. They could, however, be lifelong friends (or friends with benefits!) given their shared ability to adapt.
Sag’s opposite sign, Gemini, loves to travel and flit from one learning opportunity to the next, so that’s certainly common ground for a match. But these signs might find it hard to see eye to eye on big-picture values.
Capricorn (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)
Folks born under the cardinal earth sign are known for being industrious, pragmatic, goal-oriented and determined to reach the peak of whatever mountain they’ve set their sights on—even if it takes years and years. In turn, they need a partner by their side who is equally invested in building a solid relationship they can scale over time. (Yep, hardworking Capricorns do have the tendency to think about aspects of their personal life like business dealings.)
Ruled by taskmaster Saturn, Capricorns put a lot of stock in achievement, and that’s true whether they’re pursuing a promotion at work or working on their New Year’s resolutions. They want to be with someone who’s equally motivated to make their mark.
Most compatible signs
Because they’re equally grounded, the other earth signs—be that sensual, deliberate Taurus or service-oriented, research-savvy Virgo—are the best matches for Capricorn. By putting their rational heads together, an earth couple will have no trouble making great strides to reach their shared goals.
Capricorns might find similarly driven, powerful Scorpios downright enticing. On the other hand, by romancing a poetic Pisces, people born under the sign of the sea goat could learn a lot about themselves and how to tap into their deepest emotions.
Least compatible signs
People born with their sun or other placements in Capricorn might struggle to connect with the other cardinal signs: impulsive, fiery Aries and party-loving, breezy Libra. They could dive into a relationship that feels full of go-getter chemistry, but they may find that it fizzles out quickly.
Capricorn’s opposite sign, heartfelt Cancer, can show the sea goat how to put family life and ever-changing emotions first, while Capricorns might help Cancers move toward their goals. But if Capricorn is too cool for the crab and Cancer too emotional for a stoic sea goat, lasting passion might not be within reach.
Aquarius (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)
Co-ruled by electrifying Uranus, the planet of revolution, and serious Saturn, the planet of boundaries, Aquarius is eccentric, humanitarian, future-minded and a pro at nurturing platonic bonds, often maintaining friendships with a wide network of connections. Those born under this sign prefer to strike out on their own. They value independence, loathe convention and often relate to others on an intellectual versus deeply emotional level, so they’ll do best to find a partner who is similarly cool with approaching relationships in a nontraditional way. That said, this is also one of the fixed signs, so once Aquarians are signed up for a bond, it’s tough to steer them in a different direction.
Most compatible signs
What zodiac signs are compatible with this air sign? Aquarius matches best with one of the other cerebral, social air signs—that’s communicative, curious Gemini or diplomatic, balance-seeking Libra. These signs share a love of connecting with a vast social circle, and as a couple, they’ll always be surrounded by friends and have endless group dates on the calendar. Chemistry may also spark between the sign of the water bearer and a dynamic, go-getter Aries or wanderlust-charged, free-spirited Sagittarius.
Least compatible signs
People born with their sun or other placements in Aquarius can have trouble forging a long-term love with one of the other fixed signs: slow, steady, tradition-loving Taurus and emotionally intense, intimacy-seeking Scorpio. This isn’t to say that it can never work; it often does because these signs are just as dedicated to hard work and long-lasting bonds as Aquarius. But stubbornness can make for ongoing tension.
When it comes to Aquarius’s opposite sign (drama- and romance-loving Leo), differences will take real work to overcome. The pair might share a love of individualism, but they go about it in vastly different ways. And Aquarius’s aloof nature could clash with Leo’s need for warmth and grand gestures of romance.
Pisces (Feb. 19–March 20)
People with their sun or other placements in Pisces are empathic, emotional, artistic and imaginative dreamers who are eager to pour their energy into healing others. In turn, they may often be drawn to partners who could use a little extra TLC. But ideally, they’ll end up with someone who is capable of a fully reciprocal bond in which both partners are committed to showing up for each other and doing the work to heal themselves. Ruled by spiritual Neptune and lucky Jupiter, Pisceans also need to be with partners who care for their tender hearts and respect their spiritual natures (and, sometimes, psychic abilities).
Most compatible signs
Pisces will do the best with a fellow water sign, whether that’s sentimental, deeply caring Cancer or intimacy-seeking, emotionally astute Scorpio. Together, they can build an emotionally fulfilling life, likely full of imaginative pastimes, family traditions and romantic memories. People born with their sun or other placements in the sign of the fish will also hit it off with luxury-loving, sensual Taureans and potentially even practical, goal-oriented Capricorns who are open to getting more in touch with their deep-rooted emotions.
Least compatible signs
Pisceans will find it challenging to connect with the other mutable signs. That’s because cerebral, buzzy Geminis tend to follow their heads over their hearts, and big picture-focused Sagittarians prioritize the unfiltered truth, which could feel a bit too harsh to a sensitive Piscean. Because these signs are similarly wired to move from one activity, focus, hobby or passion to the next, they could certainly respect one another as friends or even casual love interests, but long-term love might be harder to come by.
The fish’s opposite sign, Virgo, does offer a sensitive shoulder to cry on, and the two can learn quite a bit from each other. They’ll just have to run much of what they have to say through a translator—Virgo’s analytical nature can rub Pisces the wrong way, while Pisces’s whimsical, head-in-the-clouds point of view could frustrate Virgo.
FAQs
What’s the best way to determine zodiac signs’ compatibility?
Focusing on star signs and matches alone won’t cut it. For the clearest picture of zodiac signs’ compatibility, you’ll need to look at each person’s birth chart.
The study of synastry, or zodiac compatibility, involves looking at more than your sun sign and a love interest’s sun sign in relation to each other. It requires analysis of your full birth charts, which could pinpoint compatibility between an array of placements.
Maybe your moon sign (your emotional compass in astrology) forms a harmonious angle to your partner’s sun sign. Or perhaps Venus (which speaks to how you relate to others and your perception of beauty) is in the same sign for you as Mars (which colors how a person takes action, their energy and their sex drive) is for your date. And in my book, Mercury Magic: How to Thrive During Retrogrades and Tap Into the Power of the Messenger Planet All Year Long, I explain why it’s so important to look at Mercury sign compatibility too; after all, your natal Mercury placement influences your thought processes and how you express your ideas.
How do you cast a birth chart?
Considering the importance of analyzing birth charts before exploring zodiac compatibility, you’ll be happy to hear that there are plenty of sites offering free astrology birth charts. In fact, you can cast your birth chart on my website by filling out a few key pieces of info. Or Google “cast a free birth chart” for other sites that offer similar reports.
Why trust us
Reader’s Digest provides an easy-to-understand guide to all things astrology—from understanding sun signs, moon signs and rising signs to exploring each zodiac sign’s strengths, challenges and desires. You’ll learn about your ideal match in love, careers, hobbies and more, as well as learn how big astrological events will affect you. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including practicing astrologers, as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this piece on zodiac signs’ compatibility, Maressa Brown tapped her experience as a professional astrologer of over a decade and author of Raising Baby by the Stars: A New Parent’s Guide to Astrology to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
