Aquarius Compatibility: Best and Worst Zodiac Matches

There’s no zodiac sign quite like Aquarius—they’re not worried about fitting in. If your birthday falls between January 20 and February 18, you might relate to Aquarius traits, including being friendly, independent, and original. The air sign marches to the beat of their own drum and advocates for progress, requiring space to do their own thing. Despite that, this sign is pretty social, and when they connect with someone, they’re loyal to the core. But their powerful personality doesn’t get along with just anyone—so, who is Aquarius compatible with?

Aquarius is symbolized by the water bearer, who transforms and diffuses wisdom and hope to humanity. Likewise, they love filling everyone’s cup—although romance isn’t their strong suit. That said, winning over the hearts of an emotionally detached Aquarius can seem like an impossible task. You’d have to be as committed as they are to independence and social change. “Aquarius people are most compatible with innovative, committed, and humanitarian people,” Erin River Sunday, astrologer and co-host of the Kiss My Astral podcast, explains.

Regarding zodiac compatibility, Aquarius goes all in for a partner who can keep their minds (and personal passions) engaged. Read on to learn about the ideal match for Aquarius and how compatible each zodiac sign is with the forward-thinking sign.

Key Aquarius Traits

Aquarius is the eleventh sign of the zodiac, aka the house related to hope, community, and camaraderie. Similarly, Aquarius is a sign that values friendship and—because of their passion for equality—aims to usher society into a more progressive and united future. Those born in the sign of Aquarius are revolutionaries in their own right; they push for individuality and tolerance, often by way of destabilizing tradition.

Trying to figure an Aquarius out is an (almost) impossible feat—they’re essentially walking paradoxes. Despite being associated with friendships and the collective, they’re hyper-independent. They’re advocates for change, yet they tend to be unwavering in their own beliefs. Needless to say, Aquarius doesn’t take kindly to being put in a box, nor do they subscribe to the status quo. Much of their rebellious and unpredictable nature can be attributed to their ruling planet, which oversees rebellion and innovation.

Plus, Aquarius is a fixed air sign, which speaks to their cerebral and stubborn tendencies. “For this air sign, love is rooted in the mind,” says astrologer Lauren Ash. “They crave intellectual connection, shared ideas, and someone who gets their quirks.” In other words, Aquarius people operate logically instead of emotionally, so when it comes to romance, Aquarius is drawn to potential partners who are practical and give them time to process their feelings. “That’s why friendship is often the spark point,” adds Ash. 

Regarding Aquarius’ more controversial traits, Ash says that the water bearer can be over-analytical, and their ego can get in the way of peace in a relationship. “Aquarius often brings logic to relationship conflicts, but love demands more,” says Ash. “Sometimes, it’s about letting go of being ‘right’—even when they know they’re not at fault.” They’re passionate individuals, and they often can overthink themselves to a state of anxiety. That said, they’ll get along best with a partner who can handle their fits of over analyzation and rants about the state of the world.

Because camaraderie is important for Aquarius, they aim for quality time with their partner to ponder the secrets of the universe and garner wisdom together. However, alone time is sacred to Aquarius. “Relationships thrive on shared goals, and for Aquarius, that means balancing their individualism with their partner's needs,” explains Ash. In order for a relationship to work, Aquarius will need to compromise and ensure their partner feels secure while also staying true to their independence.

Blame it on their affinity for knowledge or knack for innovation, but Aquarius is on a lifelong search for life’s biggest mysteries, including their own purpose. They’re always on the hunt for the “why”—whether it’s pondering their own calling or the intentions of society at large. For these reasons, the most compatible matches for Aquarius are people who can dig deep and share an insatiable curiosity.

Which zodiac signs are most compatible with Aquarius?

Capricorns tend to stick to tradition, whereas Aquarius people have more rebellious tendencies. Still, these two are a great match. “Capricorn, like Aquarius in modern astrology, is ruled by Saturn, making these two understand a commitment to the future together,” Sunday says. Aquarius admires Capricorn’s self-sufficiency and ambition and, as Sunday puts it, “They have different ways of moving forward, but they appreciate one another’s stamina and ability to get the job done no matter what.”

Astrologically, fire signs are excellent matches for air signs, as is the case with Leo and Aquarius. These two are sister signs. “While they have a lot of differences, if they can meet in the middle, they’re quite attracted to each other,” Sunday says. “They’re both inherently creative and appreciate being popular amongst the crowd—they just garner attention through different means.” When they can help each other shine, they’re the ultimate power couple.

And finally, hear me out. Even though Pisces is a water sign that doesn’t typically complement an air sign like Aquarius, Sunday says that these two are perfect because they both like to beat to their own drums. Pisces is stuck in their head, but Aquarius is attracted to that level of detachment. “These two appreciate each other’s freak flags and can connect on their mutual quirky energy,” says Sunday.

Which zodiac signs are least compatible with Aquarius?

In terms of compatibility, it should be noted that it’s not the end of the world if you’re not considered a good match astrologically. (And on the other side of the same coin, astrological compatibility doesn't mean your relationship will be perfect, either.) This is because your birth chart is more than your sun sign—it’s composed of different planetary placements, which you should study to determine how well you’ll get along with someone romantically.

Your moon sign, for example, indicates how you process and express your emotions, while your Venus sign denotes your love language, and these are crucial in getting the full scope of astrological compatibility. That said, your sun sign can still give you intel about how you mix with others on a surface level—and these signs are considered to be the least compatible with Aquarius.

Intuitive Cancer often relies on their emotions and hunches to navigate the world, while Aquarius is more of an objective and logical thinker. “Cancer is especially sensitive and can be quite needy while Aquarius needs quite a lot of space,” explains Sunday. Plus, Aquarius is in their own world, which can come off as perpetually aloof, which does not bode well with Cancer’s needs in a relationship. “While Cancer will appreciate Aquarius’ trailblazing ways, they likely need more attention than Aquarius wants to give,” Sunday adds.

While they share an element, which is normally complementary, Sunday says Aquarius natives may grow bored with Libra. “Libras want to be where the party is—and Aquarius is too cool to be on the trendy circuit,” says Sunday. Venus-ruled Libra is a romantic, which isn’t Aquarius’ forte. Sure, they can get lost in a conversation, even if it’s surface level, “but don’t have the same long-term vision,” Sunday explains.

Water sign Scorpio is deep and intense, which is why they are least compatible with Aquarius, a free-spirited sign that isn’t the most emotionally invested in others. “Aquarius and Scorpio are both very stubborn and tend to step on each other’s toes,” says Sunday. “They easily fall into a pattern of trying to one-up each other and while Scorpios try to act cool they actually like to be quite enmeshed with their people while Aquarius needs a lot more space.”

How does Aquarius compatibility vary with different signs?

Aquarius and Aries Compatibility

Two of the most independent signs in the zodiac, Aquarius and fire sign Aries make a great and strong pairing. Free-spirited Aquarius is drawn to fiery and assertive Aries. For these reasons, Aquarius is very compatible with Aries. These two know how to keep things exciting, according to Ash. “Their love life is filled with sparks, fueled by Aries’s bold energy and Aquarius’s adventurous spirit,” Ash says.

Communication shouldn’t be much of a challenge either, because both signs are upfront and honest. The one place communication may falter has to do with emotions, because it takes time for Aquarius to open up and Aries wears many of their feelings on their sleeve. However, once Aquarius decides they’ve found their “person” and the one that’s worth committing to, they’re loyal and refuse to give up. Per Ash, Aquarius and Aries are a power couple. “These two empower each other to chase their dreams, pushing boundaries and stepping out of their comfort zones,” she says.

Aquarius and Taurus Compatibility

Despite both being fixed signs, Aquarius and Earth sign Taurus will butt heads and are not very compatible. That’s because Taurus is concerned with the material world while Aquarius thinks abstractly. Plus, Aquarius is an outside-the-box kind of person, which contradicts Taurus’ craving for comfort.

“When these signs interact, they will activate each other’s more stubborn inclinations,” astrologer Maria Sofia Marmanides says. “Aquarius will not want to budge on what they think or believe and Taurus, who is slow to display their emotions or reveal their thoughts, will not match Aquarius’s energy and may be too ‘chill’ for [them].” Aquarius wants a debate partner and someone who will engage with them—Taurus isn’t this person. “These two may just push each other’s buttons in uncomfortable ways,” she adds.

Aquarius and Gemini Compatibility

Two air signs, Aquarius and Gemini, go well together. They get each other on a fundamental level and can make a romance go the distance. “This pair is a whirlwind of fun. Aquarius’s quick mind finds its perfect match in chatty, curious Gemini,” says Ash. “Aquarius is charmed by their wit and humor—this relationship is anything but boring.”

Aquarius is quirky and loves to laugh, play, and embrace life’s new experiences and unexpected adventures. There’s enough movement to keep Gemini occupied and having fun. “Aquarius and Gemini are truly best friends,” explains Ash. This dynamic allows for lighthearted fun while also fostering a deep, emotional connection.

Plus, their similar communication styles make it easier to discuss more serious matters and help these two understand each other in order to grow stronger together, as a couple. “It doesn’t matter what they’re doing—whether big adventures or quiet moments, as long as they’re together, they’re in their element,” Ash says.

Aquarius and Cancer Compatibility

Cancer, a water sign, is one of the least compatible signs with Aquarius. There might be a magnetic physical attraction, according to Ash, “but Cancer’s emotional intensity can clash with Aquarius’s more detached nature.” Cancer’s whole world revolves around the home and family, and they desire to be with their partner all the time. This can be frustrating for Aquarius, who values freedom, and as such, they can feel stifled by their Cancer partner.

They also have vastly different world views and ways of behaving. Cancer is prone to routine, says Ash. Aquarius, on the other hand, has “the need for constant change and independence, which can create tension between the two,” she says. They could make things work in love, but it would require Aquarius to sacrifice some of their independence, and Cancer would need to get out of their shell.

Aquarius and Leo Compatibility

Leo sits opposite Aquarius in the zodiac wheel, meaning they’re sister signs. In other words, an Aquarius-Leo couple may share key differences, but because of that, they can balance the other out. According to Marmanides, Aquarius and Leo are a case of opposites attracting. A luminous, confident fire sign, Leos shares Aquarius’ need to help and please others.

However, they totally differ in their approaches. “Leos want to entertain and bring people joy and achieve that by putting themselves at the center,” Marmanides says. “Aquarius wants to help people by making systems better and does so by centering other people.” These two could balance each other nicely if they do the work to understand each other, she adds.

Aquarius and Virgo Compatibility

Virgo is an earth sign, which isn’t typically a good match with Aquarius unless both are willing to put in the work. It’ll have to be a lot of work, too, because Virgos differ greatly from Aquarius due to their need for perfectionism, organization, and extraordinarily high standards. Virgo is neat, technical, and detail-oriented—not traits that big-picture Aquarius excels at.

However, according to Ash, Virgo and Aquarius can actually be a very successful match because they both think critically in terms of connection. “It’s a love built on intellect—deep talks, constant challenges, and mental chemistry,” says Ash. You wouldn’t even know that Aquarius and Virgo are into each other, either. “Both are pros at playing it cool, so this love story is either a long, slow simmer, or over before it even heats up.” 

Aquarius and Libra Compatibility

Libra is a pretty compatible match for Aquarius. Libra’s charm, kindness, and generosity make the fellow air sign care deeply about connecting with other people. This passion may lead them to develop a vast network of social connections, or really put their time and energy toward advocating for or giving back to others.

Societal improvement is top of mind for Aquarius, so they’d feel right at home helping Libra—and debating and considering all the questions that come up along the way. “These two signs together can be quite a formidable force when it comes to social justice and community building,” Marmanides says.

Their collaboration can overcome obstacles so long as they continue to communicate effectively. “Romantically, each will have to learn how to open up and share their personal feelings more but as friends or partners, they can easily succeed at whatever joint venture they put their minds together on,” adds Marmanides.

Aquarius and Scorpio Compatibility

While Aquarius and Scorpio would be intrigued by each other’s intelligence, this pairing would be intense. They are square to each other, which means tension exists between them; however, Marmanides says “passion and sparks will definitely be flying between the two, and they will naturally feed each other’s innate curiosity and fascination with other people.”

They also have different communication styles. “What can happen is a battle of wills and trust issues can surface as Aquarius’s need for socializing will conflict with Scorpio’s desire to keep their circle small,” she explains. While Aquarius talks through topics at least but keeps feelings and emotions surface-level, water sign Scorpio dives deep and gets intimate which would be tough for Aquarius, who often struggles to be vulnerable.

Aquarius and Sagittarius Compatibility

Fire sign Sagittarius is one of the best compatible signs with Aquarius, as they both have a sense of passion and love of life that’s contagious. “Aquarius and Sagittarius bring chaos in the best way. Aquarius vibes with Sagittarius’ humor, and Sagittarius loves how Aquarius couldn’t care less what anyone thinks,” explains Ash. They’re both resilient truth-seekers who will stop at nothing to expand their minds. 

Plus, Aquarius and Sagittarius people are dedicated to improving and strengthening their own independence and personal development, and they can work together to be there for each other, without being too codependent and clingy (a turn-off for both signs). “This love burns steady, never losing its intensity,” Ash says. The flirtation never stops, and the energy between them stays electric, long after the first date is over.” Whether they’re gaining wisdom together or chatting about philosophy, a romance between Aquarius and Sagittarius feels like it was designed to go the distance.

Aquarius and Capricorn Compatibility

On its face, an Aquarius and Capricorn pairing seems like a total mismatch because of how different the temperaments of these two signs are. “Where Aquarius is bold and innovative and willing to shake up the status quo, Capricorn as a sign is often designated as the embodiment of the status quo or at least, ingrained, immovable structures and systems,” Marmanides says. Very different from Aquarius who will do anything to stand out above the rest.

However, Marmanides says that while they’ll this pair will have its challenges, they could actually really work. Two Saturn-ruled signs that can share a cusp, Aquarius and Capricorn can find commonality in their shared pragmatism and efficiency. “If these two can be honest with each other, this will work,” she adds.

Aquarius and Aquarius Compatibility

Aquarius is accepting of all, but it’s not very often that they feel understood by others. That’s why two Aquarius people together can be a beautiful thing—they can relate to each others’ unique qualities which can often feel isolating. “When an Aquarius meets another Aquarius, it’s often a symbiotic feeling, like recognizing a person from your home country while you’re traveling abroad, and there’s an instant recognition that you both deep down feel a bit like a fish out of water,” she says. “Two Aquariuses will celebrate each other’s eccentricities and quirks.”

Marmanides adds that two Aquariuses together will find a willing and enthusiastic partner in exploring new places and ideas. “As long as they don’t compete with each other, this pairing can work very well,” she says. They can work together to seek innovation—and maybe even save the world.

Aquarius and Pisces Compatibility

On the surface, a Pisces-Aquarius couple doesn’t seem like they would work. Pisces may be too sensitive for detached Aquarius, who may struggle to meet the water sign’s emotional needs. But despite their differences, they both are hopeful, abstract thinkers who have more in common than you may think. 

For starters, Pisces tends to retreat to their solitude, allowing Aquarius to tend to their own alone time. Space to be their own people is fundamental to each of the sign’s personal growth. Pisces wears rose-colored glasses and can inspire Aquarius to remain optimistic in their quest to change the world around them, along with collaborating innovation together. “They’re drawn to each other’s minds, connecting over creativity and curiosity,” says Ash. 

The caveat? “While their interests align, their deeper drives don’t, and that’s where the divide begins,” Ash says. Aquarius can be dismissive of Pisces’ colorful emotions which can drive a wedge between them if the water bearer is unwilling to understand them on that level. “Pisces admires Aquarius’s intellect, but struggles with their rigidity. On the other hand, Aquarius can find Pisces a little too fluid and hard to pin down.” 

But if Aquarius is captivated enough by a Pisces, which is easy with the water sign’s dreamy allure, a Pisces-Aquarius couple can take on challenges and leave a long-lasting mark on the world.