Create a Gay Dating App Like Scruff

January 27, 2026

Create a Gay Dating App Like Scruff – Developing a gay dating app like Scruff begins with a simple but strong point: people want to be seen and embraced for who they really are. To lots of users, a dating app isn’t simply a swipe site; it’s somewhere they draw inspiration from, ignite conversations, and make genuine connections. In the LGBTQ+ community, trust, safety, and authenticity are everything. Which is why Scruff-style apps are community-first: through specific features, intentional design, and inclusive language.

If you are looking to create a Gay dating app like Scruff, this is the best business-focused blog to start with.

Why Build a Gay Dating App Like Scruff?

The global dating app market is increasing. Specialized dating apps geared towards particular groups of people, including the LGBTQ+ community, have the benefit of experiencing less competition and seeing more user loyalty. A gay dating app that aspires to challenge the dating culture and engage its users is that much closer to beating every dating platform.

Key business drivers are:

• High user engagement
• Premium subscription revenue
• In-app purchases & virtual gifting
• Targeted advertising & brand partnerships
• Community events & integrations 

Steps to Build a Gay Dating App Like Scruff

1. Test the Concept & Identify Your Target Market

Before you write your first line of code:

Do your homework: Be aware of what gay customers do and don’t like about current applications.

Query your users: What would you like to see in the product that is not currently there?

Scope out the competition: Scruff, Grindr, Hornet — can you fill any gaps?

Build clear user personas: Who are you designing for? Young professionals, travelers, the plus-size community, or trans & non-binary persons?

2. Document Requirements & Create an MVP Roadmap

Create a Product Requirements Document (PRD) that includes:

• Core features
  
• User flows
  
• UI/UX expectations
  
• Platform choices (iOS, Android, Web)
  
• Monetization strategy
  

At this stage, focus on an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) with essential features:

• Profile creation with orientation & preferences
  
• Geolocation matching
  
• Chat & multimedia messaging
  
• Privacy & safety controls
  
• Basic search and filters
  

Your MVP must solve a user problem in a simple way, without overcomplicating features.

3. UI/UX Design

In a community-centric app, design matters:

• Inclusive onboarding
  
• Easy navigation
  
• Accessible color contrast
  
• Clear icons & gestures
  
• Profiles displaying interests, pronouns, and community badges
  

Design should reflect trust and safety. Partner with designers who understand LGBTQ+ aesthetics and cultural nuances. Use wireframes first, then move to interactive UI designs.

4. Backend Architecture & Tech Stack

A dating app such as Scruff needs a scalable, secure backend.

Suggested backend stack:

• Server: Node.js / Python
• Database: PostgreSQL / MongoDB
• Real-time Features: WebSockets ref /Firebase
• Cloud Hosting: AWS / Google Cloud

Security is a must: encrypt chat data, protect user locations, and roll out secure login protocols (OAuth, two-factor authentication). 

5. Build Core Features

At a minimum, your app should include:

• Profile Setup

Users can upload pictures, write a bio, set preferences, and tag interests.

• Location-Based Matching

Geolocation to show nearby users — with privacy thresholds & distance limits.

• Chat & Multimedia Messages

Text, images, emojis, GIFs, voice notes — with the ability to block/report.

• Smart Filters

Age range, distance, interests, tribe types, safety tags, etc.

• Push Notifications

Message alerts, match updates, app announcements.

• Safety & Verification

Photo verification, reporting workflows, user blocking, and anti-spam protection.

6. Advanced Features for Competitive Advantage

Once your MVP gains traction, level up with:

• Video chat
  
• In-app events or group spaces
  
• Travel mode
  
• Community forums
  
• Virtual gifts & tipping
  
• Boost & spotlight ads
  
• AI-powered suggestions
  
• Safety check-ins for dates
  

These features boost engagement and support premium revenue models.

7. Monetization Models

To run a sustainable business, define your revenue strategy early:

Subscription Plans

• Basic Free tier
  
• Premium tiers (monthly/annual)
  
• VIP benefits: advanced filters, ad-free, unlimited likes

In-App Purchases

• Virtual gifts
  
• Boosts
  
• Profile highlights
  

Advertising & Partnerships

• LGBTQ+ friendly brands
  
• Event promotions
  
• Local venues
  

Cost to Create a Gay Dating App Like Scruff

The total cost varies based on complexity, team rates, and geographic development location. Here’s a realistic breakdown for a professional app:

• MVP Stage Approximate Costs

Roughly the cost of developing an MVP for a gay dating app, such as scruff falls in the range of $66,000-$117,000. This scope of work adds up to UI/UX Design, frontend iOS and Android development, backend infrastructure, QA testing, Project Management, and DevOps setup – all the necessary tools to provide a solid, scalable, first-to-market version.

• Post-MVP Enhancements

Extra options such as video chat, AI matching, and community events may include:

Video & Live Chat Integration: $10,000 to $25,000

AI Suggestion Engine: $8,000 to $20,000

In-App Purchases & Wallet System: $7,000 to $15,000

Full Functionality App Tier: $120,000+ $200,000+

Marketing Strategy to Launch Your Gay Dating App

A well-built app needs visibility. Here’s a business-oriented launch plan:

Pre-Launch

• Landing page with early sign-ups
  
• Social media campaigns
  
• Influencer partnerships
  
• Community focus groups
  

Launch

• Press releases aimed at tech & LGBTQ+ media
• Paid ads on Instagram, TikTok, and Google
• Sponsored events with Pride Festivals 

Growth

• Referral programs
  
• Push notification re-engagement
  
• Feature updates & seasonal campaigns
  

Why Partner With RichestSoft?

At RichestSoft, a dating app development company, we offer:

• End-to-end app development
  
• Deep experience in social & community platforms
  
• Transparent pricing & timely delivery
  
• Scalable architecture
  
• Design that resonates with target users
  

We don’t just build apps; we help brands scale sustainably.

FAQs

1. What is the time to make an app like Scruff? 

Generally, 4–6 months for an MVP, depending on feature set and platform support.

2. Can I include more advanced features later on? 

Yes — your MVP can launch with basic features while you introduce advanced capabilities in future releases.

3. What makes a gay dating app successful? 

Community, trust, safety features, good matching, and continued engagement.

4. In what way does RichestSoft provide Post-Launch? 

We offer services for maintenance, feature upgrades, analytics, integration, and monitoring.