Any sign can fall in love with any other sign…technically. And some zodiac signs are totally meant to be. But each sign carries traits that makes us think that not all love matches are written in the stars. Which two signs are likely to set a (figurative) house on fire? And which two wouldn’t even agree on the right venue to have their first date? So, if you're wondering what zodiac signs you shouldn't date, see below for my comprehensive explainer of the most incompatible zodiac signs, including additional commentary from astrologer Jaime Wright.
The Most Incompatible Zodiac Signs That Should Never, Ever, Date, According to an Astrologer
An Aries and Cancer? *Shivers*
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Updated Nov 28, 2024
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What Determines Zodiac Sign Incompatibility?
At its most basic level, my understanding from talking with Wright is that zodiac sign incompatibility typically arises from differences in elements (fire, earth, air, and water) and the signs’ ruling planets. Each element has traits that may either complement or clash with others—like the intensity of water signs and the assertiveness of fire signs. Modes (cardinal, fixed, mutable) also affect compatibility; for instance, fixed signs can be stubborn, while mutable signs adapt. And there's things like communication style, emotional needs and values tied to your birth chart's planetary placements. But then, of course, there's things that maybe the zodiac doesn't consider, like whether your boyfriend's a Red Sox fan, chews with his mouth open and wears cargo shorts year-round. In that case, it might not matter that you're both Aries—you got the ick!
Meet our Astrologer: Expert on Zodiac Sign Incompatibility
Jaime Wright is a writer and consulting astrologer based in Brooklyn, NY. She has written PureWow's weekly and monthly horoscope columns since 2019. She has been working with clients online and IRL for almost a decade, authors the cult favorite newsletter moon missives, and hosts the good fortune podcast. A lifelong student of astrology, Jaime is an expert in both modern and traditional techniques, as well as in the history of astrology and other forms of divination.
What Are the Most Incompatible Zodiac Signs for Dating or Marriage?'
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1. Incompatible: Aries and Cancer
Aries love to move quickly and capitalize on the romance of the moment. What could be better than feeling that spark of connection and acting on it right away? But that doesn’t quite work for Cancers, who are sentimental and need time to properly establish trust. For them, romance is a work of art, and God is in the details.
“As two cardinal signs, Aries and Cancer are both initiators in any relationship,” Wright says. “Because they are square to each other, there’s a constant compromise that’s necessary (like Aries allowing Cancer to plan a day-trip for once or Cancer staying out of the kitchen while Aries cooks a meal) to make things work.”
Those thoughtful gestures—buying your fave bottle of vino every date night—and inside jokes that partners build together over time—keep these hopeless romantics on their toes. Unfortunately, by the time these emotional crabs are comfortable enough to commit, Aries has already assumed the Cancer was just not that into them and has moved on.
2. Incompatible: Gemini and Scorpio
The free-roaming mind of a Gemini can lead them to hold seemingly contradictory opinions…which can freak out a Scorpio, who needs to know where their partner stands on everything at all times. If the ground is constantly shifting beneath their feet, a Scorpio won’t feel safe to invest their hearts in a lasting partnership. How will they know you’re trustworthy if you’re too impulsive to be consistent? Geminis, on the other hand, are most comfortable in a dynamic environment (quicksand is their jam), and they need to be accepted for the changeable weirdos they are!
That being said, Wright notes that there are exceptions. “This pair seems like it doesn’t work at all, but for whatever reason, I actually know a ton of Gemini-Scorpio couples (including my brother and sister in law who have been married for almost 25 years!),” she adds. “Despite their differences, both these signs are great friends with a wicked sense of humor which I think keeps the spark alive.”
3. Incompatible: Capricorn and Sagittarius
If a Capricorn can be summed up in one word, it would be “professional.” They are hardworking, ambitious and buttoned-up. That doesn’t mean stuffy—it means they are serious about what they want, which can make for incredibly romantic and dependable life partners (aww). The Sagittarius, on the other hand, is more about that scruffy genius vibe mixed with a dash of charming beginner’s luck. Who cares if they show up late with unbrushed hair and misaligned buttons? They know they can charm everyone in the room into forgiving them. Except a Capricorn. Sorry, but these notoriously well-put together and organized sea goats want you to be on time.
“Capricorn is ruled by Saturn while Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter,” Wright adds. “Capricorn likes rules and structure while Sagittarius prefers living on a prayer. If these two are willing to honor each other’s strengths (instead of attempting to get the other to be more like them), this could be a real power couple. But that requires both to admit they aren’t always right (a rare occurrence).”
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4. Incompatible: Taurus and Aquarius
The zodiac’s bull is stable and predictable, especially in matters of the heart. That can spell romance and reliability for some and stagnation for others. “Both fixed signs, Taurus and Aquarius are stuck in their ways,” Wright explains. “Aquarius wants everyone to switch to bamboo straws and Taurus, seeking comfort over all else, refuses because they can’t stand the mouth feel.”
For Aquarius, the innovators and iconoclasts of the zodiac, doing the same thing the same way is a recipe for suffocation and boredom. They are turned on most of all by originality, and they need the person they are dating to stimulate them intellectually and artistically. For the nurturing Taurus, that sounds like a lot of wasted energy. Once they find what works for them, why break it? But the Aquarius is all too willing to break things so that they can fall together differently. They inherently believe that “monotony is the awful reward of the careful” so a change of pace is always on the table.
5. Incompatible: Leo and Pisces
Sensitive Pisces are overflowing with karmic wisdom (the Pisces in your life is probably the one who practices reiki for real…) and empathy for others. And bold Leos are overflowing with love for themselves and loyalty to their crew—and they ask for no less in a partner. A Leo may vent about a co-worker who stole credit for yet another idea, while the Pisces might start to see the other side of the story (maybe she’s genuinely insecure because you were promoted ahead of her last quarter)! It’s not that they don’t have your back, Leo, it’s that Pisces wants to have everyone’s back in the world.
“This is another unlikely pair that I actually see a lot of IRL—a celeb example being Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz,” Wright says. “Leos love all the attention they get from sweet, mutable Pisces. But things go south if Leo doesn’t understand that Pisces often require the same kind of validation (just aren’t willing to ask for it).”
6. Incompatible: Virgo and Libra
Virgo wit is some of the wittiest wit in all the zodiac (note: I am obviously not a Virgo), and it comes from their unflinchingly realistic natures. They don’t bother with a coat of sugar; to them, life’s bitterness is to be faced with integrity and humor. That may sound refreshing for some, but for the zodiac’s other resident romantic, Libra, they really like their sugar…and they’ll take it with an extra side of sugar. They are optimists in love and life and tend to believe that almost anything is possible if we work together. But what they find inspirational comes off as totally naive to Virgo, who in turn seems like a big old grump to Libra.
“As the two signs that straddle the Fall Equinox, Virgo and Libra actually have a LOT in common,” Wright adds. “At their worst, both can be perfectionists and opportunistic and when they recognize that in each other? It can be repulsive.”
The Most Incompatible Matches for Each Sign
1. Aries Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (March 21 - April 19)
- Least Compatible Sign: Cancer
As Wright explains above, by the time the crab is ready to commit, Aries, getting mixed messages has moved on. It's a classic case of bad timing...but like, always. - Most Compatible Sign: Aries
"In many ways, every sign is a good match for Aries when it comes to romance with the one exception being: another Aries," shares Wright. The astrologer continues: "Yes, the Aries-Aries love combo is notoriously tricky. Though two Aries make dynamic business partners and inseparable BFFs, when it comes to romance, these two tend to connect in a wave of passion that burns out very quickly.
2. Taurus Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (April 20 - May 20)
- Least Compatible Sign: Sagittarius
According to Wright, This match just makes zero sense: Taurus craves stability while Sagittarius values freedom over everything else. - Most Compatible Sign: Taurus
Yep. Astrologer Raquel Rodriguez notes that a Taurus and a Taurus have a shared practicality and desire for a calm lifestyle often results in a harmonious and long-lasting relationship. “That’s why," Rodriguez continues, "I believe that the understanding and patience they have for each other is unparalleled.”
3. Gemini Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (May 21 - June 20)
- Least Compatible Sign: Capricorn
The mutable air sign (Gemini) and cardinal earth sign (Capricorn) could surprisingly get along swell. That is, until Gemini gets bored and quickly moves onto the next thing. - Most Compatible Sign: Pisces
Per Wright, Gemini and Pisces really connect on an almost cellular level. "It’s an instant soulmate bond. Pisces is also the only sign that can turn restless Gemini into a couch potato." Touché, Pisces.
4. Cancer Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (June 21 - July 22)
- Least Compatible Sign: Libra
I've learned from our astrologers that Libra and Cancer have a lot in common. But when it comes to romance, Libra's ability to master the art of crowd-please keeps a Cancer on the edge of their seat, waiting for undivided attention. And for the crab, that just won't do. - Most Compatible Sign: Scorpio
If you know a Cancer, you know they crave commitment. And if you know a Scorpio, you know they're up for that exact challenge. As astrology writer Kiki O'Keeffe joked, this couple isn't ride or die—they're ride and die.
5. Leo Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (July 23 - August 22)
- Least Compatible Sign: Scorpio
I've come to understand Leo and Scorpio as two of the ultimate power signs of the zodiac. But Leos want to be loved and Scorpios want to be feared. In short, I feel bad for a convivial Leo driving home with a jealous Scorpio. - Most Compatible Sign: Libra
According to Wright, Libra and Leo create a balanced and harmonious connection, with Leo’s boldness complementing Libra’s refined nature. As a fire sign, Leo brings passion and enthusiasm, while air sign Libra contributes charm and grace.
6. Virgo Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (August 24 - September 22)
- Least Compatible Sign: Sagittarius
Virgos have a pretty precise order when it comes to romantic partners, involving pragmatism and commitment, and Sagittarius (though I promise they make wonderful long-term partners!) aren't the best match on those two fronts. - Most Compatible Sign: Cancer
What goes well with an anxious Virgo? Why, a nurturing Cancer. Virgo thrives in the emotional depth and commitment that comes from a Cancer, and Cancer loves Virgo’s attention to detail—which means fabulous, well-thought-out gifts.
7. Libra Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (September 22 - October 21)
- Least Compatible Sign: Scorpio
As Wright tells me, Scorpios might just be too intense for light-hearted Libras: "In my opinion, this relationship usually goes up in flames when Scorpio discovers far too late that Libra, who was truly just trying to keep everyone happy, was living some kind of a double life." - Most Compatible Sign: Gemini
Wright calls this pairing "a true meeting of the minds." In fact, when Libra and Gemini come together, it’s time to let their freak flags fly (in a good way). As she describes it, when a Libra and a Gemini are in love, they're *that* annoying couple with unmatched chemistry and banter.
8. Scorpio Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (October 22 - November 21)
- Least Compatible Sign: Leo
Two fixed signs? Bring on the stubbornness and intensity. Plus, while the lion craves admiration, the scorpion values mystery and privacy. - Most Compatible Sign: Aquarius
This is a close call for Wright. Since Cancer and Scorpio get along swimmingly as well. But Aquarius offers a refreshing contrast to Scorpio’s intensity and together, they bring out the best in both signs.
9. Sagittarius Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (November 22 - December 21)
- Least Compatible Sign: Taurus
Sag is the free-spirited fire sign that loves adventure, novelty, and independence. Taurus, on the other hand, is the grounded bull that craves stability, routine, and comfort. The tension between wanting to stay put vs. being antsy for more can be a real deal-breaker. - Most Compatible Sign: Aries
These two fire signs burn more brightly together. They both share that impulsive, zest for life, adventure, and passion. Sags and rams thrive together with a kinetic energy and dynamic-yet-supportive relationship.
10. Capricorn Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (December 22 - January 19)
- Least Compatible Sign: Aries
Excel spreadsheet? Aries never met her. And with Capricorn’s need for structure and long-term planning and Aries' impulsive approach to life, the pair holds each other back more than helping the other soar. - Most Compatible Sign: Taurus
Practical, stable and committed—that's the magic that keeps these two signs happy as clams. But it's Taurus's warmth along with the consistency that makes Capricorn feel safe, secure and loved. Together, they form a supportive, reliable, and harmonious partnership.
11. Aquarius Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (January 20 - February 18)
- Least Compatible Sign: Taurus
Aquarius values freedom, innovation and intellectual exploration, while Taurus prefers stability, routine, and practical concerns. Ultimately, an Aquarius might feel restricted by Taurus and Taurus, too on edge by the Aquarian unpredictability. - Most Compatible Sign: Gemini
Chatty Geminis bring a dynamic, communicative energy that complements Aquarius's curious-minded and independent nature. Together, the signs' connection is often rooted in mutual understanding and freedom.
12. Pisces Most Incompatible Matches for Dating (February 19 - March 20)
- Least Compatible Sign: Sagittarius
Sag's adventurous and sometimes blunt disposition can feel overwhelming for Pisces, who seeks more emotional stability and empathy in a relationship. - Most Compatible Sign: Cancer
Though Pisces is known to get along with most signs, when it comes to long-term romance, these two signs offer the other deep emotional understanding that often leads to a nurturing and intuitive bond.
Can You Still Be Friends with Incompatible Zodiac Signs?
For the people in the back: YES! Of course you can! You can even date and be in long-term, stable romantic partnerships with "incompatible" signs. As Jaime Wright tells me, we should use astrology to understand ourselves better, not interpret black-or-white decisions. So yes, it’s 100% possible to be friends with incompatible zodiac signs. In fact, some signs are considered better platonic matches since friendships and partners need different things from each other.
Recapping the Most Incompatible Zodiac Signs for Dating
At face value, I've learned from Wright that we can look at the common personality traits of the 12 signs of the zodiac to extrapolate how they'd hold up in romantic partnerships. A comfort-seeking Taurus and novelty-chasing Aquarius? It doesn't take a brain surgeon to detect the faults in the stars. Still, Wright tells me that there's always more than the anecdotes and descriptors we read on the pace. Compatibility is nuanced, and couples can succeed—or fail—despite what the astrology says.
