What’s dating a Cancer really like? Vogue’s astrologer sets the record straight

Cancers are the caregivers of the zodiac, and they love to foster close, nurturing relationships. However, they usually keep their cards close to their chest and it may take a while for them to fully open up and be comfortable with who they are dating. In order to keep seeing someone, they need to feel that deeper emotional connection. Below, find out what dating a Cancer is really like.

Who are Cancers most compatible with?

Cancers are most likely to enjoy the company of Capricorn and Taurus. Both of these grounded earth signs have a lot of stability in their lives and are consistent, which are traits that Cancer wants in a partner. A Taurus is able to understand Cancer’s introverted tendencies, and they may both love relaxing at home. Meanwhile, a Capricorn is the sign opposite to Cancer, so there may be important lessons they can both learn from one another. A Cancer may help a Capricorn to develop their sensitive, emotional side, while a Capricorn may help a Cancer find structure in their life and work towards concrete goals.

Fellow cardinal sign, Libra, may also feel at home with a Cancer partner. Libras are very focused on developing close relationships and they like to have someone around for advice and support. They probably love how thoughtful their Cancer partner is, and the two of them are able to calmly work through any conflicts that may arise.

Why can dating a Cancer be so hard?

Cancers tend to be shy at first and it may be hard to tell if they even like you. Similar to their mascot, the crab, it may take a while for a Cancer to fully come out of their shell and show off their true personality. Patience is key when dating a Cancer. This sensitive water sign also hates conflict, so they may be a bit passive if they’re upset. A Cancer may expect you to read their mind and know why they’re bothered, so it’s important to make sure that there is always open communication in the relationship.

What’s it like dating a Cancer?

A Cancer needs to know that there’s security in the relationship, so they are usually not into casual dating or dating multiple people at once. They prefer to foster deeper, emotional connections, which is part of why they might be a little guarded at first. They need to be sure of someone before they give their heart away.

Cancers are also traditional when it comes to dating and they may like to be pursued so that they know that the other person likes them first. Once they’re more serious about someone though, they love having cosy movie nights at home and engaging in intimate conversations. They are great listeners and often interject with really helpful advice. However, they tend to avoid huge group outings, so they may only want to introduce you to their absolute closest friends and family.

What signs should Cancer avoid?

Cancers are most likely to clash with fire signs, Sagittarius and Aries. Sagittarius loves to travel the world, and they tend to get restless and need a constant change in scenery. This lifestyle is probably not so appealing to Cancer, as they love to be close to family and have a cosy home to which they can return. Aries is another high-energy sign that likes to constantly be initiating new experiences. Aries can also be very direct and not the most aware of other people’s feelings, which could rub Cancer the wrong way. Cancer might end up hurt and offended by an Aries’s bluntness.