Romanceable characters are a hallmark of the cozy life-sim genre, and Stardew Valley offers a plethora of marriage candidates to choose from. With six bachelors and six bachelorettes available, selecting just one partner can be quite the challenge.
Whether you lean towards men or women, each gender presents six unique options—and a special surprise in Krobus, who, while not eligible for marriage, embarks on a captivating friendship. Choosing the right character is a big commitment, so consider your options carefully!
To help streamline your decision-making process, we’ve compiled a ranked list of every bachelor, bachelorette, and Krobus, the void-sent housemate, in Stardew Valley. This ranking takes into account their favorite gifts and the rewards they offer after marriage, making it easier for you to choose your ideal partner.
Ranked List of Stardew Valley Bachelors
In Stardew Valley, there are six bachelors to consider. While none may be ideal partners in real life due to their character flaws, each has distinct advantages that could sway your heart.
6. Sam
If you’re searching for a partner who excels in gourmet cooking or thoughtful gifts, Sam may not fit the bill. Post-marriage, you’ll receive only his signature Pancakes and ordered Pizza, alongside gifts he casually digs out of junk drawers. If you can overlook that, he’s relatively easy to woo after completing the Vault Bundle, as he has a penchant for Cactus Fruit.
5. Shane
Despite his reputation as the town drunk, Shane has certain redeeming qualities, particularly if blue chickens are on your farming wishlist. He can be easily won over with Beer from the Stardrop Saloon, which costs 400 Gold.
4. Elliott
Elliott is not the hardest bachelor to romance, as he enjoys receiving Duck Feathers and Lobsters. However, his post-marriage gifts could use improvement; aside from a yearly bottle of Wine on Winter 28, his offerings primarily consist of coffee and fish dinners, but only when it rains.
3. Harvey
As the town doctor, Harvey should be the model partner, yet his high standards for loved gifts complicate matters. Truffle Oil and Coffee are among the few gifts that please him, requiring effort to acquire. His generosity post-marriage is limited, providing a Complete Breakfast only if he’s home and cooking on rainy days.
2. Sebastian
Sebastian, the resident emo boy, may come as a surprise pick for second place. Despite his relatable charm, his gift offerings post-marriage tend to be underwhelming, though he adores Frozen Tears and Void Eggs, the latter obtainable through interactions with the witch.
1. Alex
Alex stands out as a unique bachelor, characterized by an inflated ego typical of jocks. While difficult to woo due to his limited love gifts—Complete Breakfast and Salmon Dinner—he compensates with a valuable post-marriage gift, Dish O’ The Sea, enhancing your Fishing skill by +3.
Ranked List of Stardew Valley Bachelorettes
If you’re interested in a more feminine partner, the game features six bachelorettes, each with their unique pros and cons.
6. Leah
Leah’s shortcomings stem from both her difficult-to-obtain favorite gifts and her woeful post-marriage offerings. The least challenging of her loves, Truffles, are still quite pricey. Once married, you’ll receive various seasonal forageables, primarily mushrooms.
5. Emily
Emily falls in the middle tier among potential mates, complicated by her prior relationship with Clint. She appreciates Wool, Cloth, and diverse gems, making her easy to pursue if you don’t mind some competition. After marriage, she’ll mostly gift you forageables but may occasionally present an Omni Geode.
4. Penny
Penny is known for her sweet demeanor, yet her gift requirements can complicate romance. She values Melons and Poppies, both of which are only available in summer unless you’ve unlocked the Greenhouse. Her post-marriage gifts leave much to be desired, largely consisting of common farm ingredients such as Milk and Eggs.
3. Haley
Haley is considered the easiest character to marry in Stardew Valley, with the potential to be pursued just before the Flower Dance. She enjoys Daffodils and Coconuts. Her post-marriage contributions might be basic, but they do include delicious breakfasts that certainly add sweetness to your mornings.
2. Abigail
Abigail excels at offering gifts unlike others, such as Void Essence and Solar Essence, upon marriage. Although her culinary skills vary, she does have the potential to whip up delightful meals. To win her heart, you’ll need to bring home Amethyst and harvest Pumpkins in the Fall.
1. Maru
Maru arguably stands as the most advantageous partner due to her rewarding gifts, including Bombs, Warp Totems, and Fertilizers crafted in her workshop. However, winning her affection requires a greater effort, with best-loved gifts being season-sensitive Cauliflower and Strawberries until you secure the Greenhouse.
A Special Mention: Krobus
Although Krobus is not a romanceable character, he deserves a mention. If you prefer a non-romantic relationship, you can develop a friendship with Krobus and eventually invite him to move in as your roommate. He treasures Wild Horseradish, plus if you possess a Void Chicken, he’ll gladly accept Void Eggs or Void Mayonnaise. Strengthening your bond is a breeze, and you can still access his shop even after he moves in; he’s just replaced by a chest in the Sewers.
FAQ About Marriage Candidates in Stardew Valley
Who are the eligible bachelors in Stardew Valley?
The bachelors in Stardew Valley include Sam, Shane, Elliott, Harvey, Sebastian, and Alex. Each has unique gifts and post-marriage offerings that can influence your choice.
What are the best gifts for the bachelorettes in Stardew Valley?
Bachelorettes such as Maru and Abigail have specific gifts they love. Bringing them items like Cauliflower, Strawberries, Amethyst, or Pumpkins will help you win their affection.
Can you marry Krobus in Stardew Valley?
No, Krobus cannot be married, but he can become your roommate. You can increase your friendship by gifting him items he loves, such as Wild Horseradish or Void Eggs.
What are the disadvantages of each bachelor in Stardew Valley?
Each bachelor has unique quirks that can be seen as disadvantages, such as limited gift options, challenging gifts to acquire, or underwhelming post-marriage offerings. It’s vital to consider these when choosing your partner.