Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, which helps explain why Aries are often natural-born leaders, exuding dominance, ambition, and a vigor for life. People who have their sun sign in Aries (aka the sign for which you’d read a horoscope) are born between the dates of March 21 (the spring equinox) and April 19, give or take a day or two. Because of their bold personalities, Aries tend to be most compatible with zodiac signs that share their fervor and directness in how they communicate and live their lives—and knowing Aries compatibility is a must if you dare to pursue the bold fire sign.

To be sure, true astrological compatibility can’t be boiled down to just sun signs alone. We all contain multitudes beyond what our sun sign might suggest (see: your entire natal chart), and astrologer Alex Caiola always recommends people look to other aspects of their chart and that of any prospective partner (like moon signs and Venus signs, for starters, or the 7th house) to get a clearer idea of potential compatibility. In general, Aries will be compatible with someone who can appreciate their high energy and dominance.

Specifically, astrologer and numerologist, Erin River Sunday, explains that the signs that complement Aries are those that can match their driven mentality. “Because they always seem to be in motion, [Aries] do best with people that are motivated and hard-working,” says Sunday. Beyond that, though, it’s important for Aries that their partner can also balance their natural hot-headedness, and for that reason, Sunday says “someone that’s empathetic would help to soothe their sometimes inflamed energy.”

“Because they always seem to be in motion, [Aries] do best with people that are motivated and hard-working.”—Erin River Sunday, astrologer

Curious to know if you’d pair well with Aries? Read ahead to learn more from expert astrologers about Aries traits, the signs with which they tend to be most and least compatible, and details on how they might mesh (or clash) with every zodiac sign.

Key Aries Traits

Ruled by the planet Mars, which governs mental and physical drive, Aries is all about action and forward momentum. “People born under the sign of Aries are ambitious, honest, bold, courageous, daring, and creative,” says astrologer Emily Newman. Aries is associated with the Roman god of war, Mars, (its Greek counterpart, Ares), making them particularly competitive and assertive—especially when they feel they have something to protect.

Plus, Aries zodiac signs are often so “fired up” because of their fire element, which can also cause them to come off as extreme or intense sometimes. Like their fellow fire signs, Sagittarius and Leo, Aries is passionate and lives for the thrill. As a sign with a cardinal modality, Aries is one of the zodiac’s initiators—if you need something done, call an Aries.

Their energy and action-oriented nature can lead Aries to be quite optimistic; they tend to have big dreams or goals and feel excited about going after them. The flip side of that is, they can occasionally be hasty or impulsive in their decisions. And it’s not unusual to encounter a heated disagreement with an Aries or to find them to have a short fuse, says Newman.

Aries’s ambition and passion can also sometimes come off as selfish; after all, they’re the first zodiac sign in the wheel and most closely associated with the self and individualism, owing to their “me first” attitude. They can sometimes show up as “egotistical attention seekers,” says Newman. “Aries wants to be the center of attention, so if you’re in direct competition with them for something, they may cause you damage.”

Read on for the best matches for Aries.

Which zodiac signs are most compatible with Aries?

As a fire sign, Aries is generally most compatible with fellow fire signs Leo and Sagittarius since they tend to have a few personality traits in common, like their lust for life, passion, and ability to take action on their goals without hesitation. Sagittarius, as Sunday explains, is an adventurous sign that Aries would appreciate as a sign that’s always up for a good time. “Sagittarius will invite Aries along on their many quests and keep them guessing–there’s no chance of boredom and that’s important to an Aries,” Sunday says.

But Aries often also fare well with air signs Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius; after all, air is what fans the flames of fire. According to Sunday, Aries is attracted to Gemini specifically because of their spontaneity. Plus, Aries can appreciate Gemini being cerebral leaning, which balances the fire sign’s oft-heated emotions. “Gemini gives Aries a more logical point of view to fuel their inherent blind passion,” adds Sunday.

While it might not seem like a compatible match off-rip, Sunday makes a case for Scorpio as one of Aries’ best matches—at the very least, physically—because of a planetary similarity. “Both ruled by Mars (Scorpio’s ruler in traditional astrology), these two can have an especially HOT relationship,” says Sunday. “They admire each other’s drive and are likely to have great physical chemistry as well.” As a couple, the two can bounce off each other’s passions and offer a safe space to be vulnerable, too.

Which zodiac signs are least compatible with Aries?

As for the signs that are least compatible with Aries, Cancer tops the list. Both a water sign (which is essentially the opposite of a fire sign) *and* a fellow cardinal sign to Aries, Cancer is deeply sensitive yet loves to be at the helm of the ship. Their desire to initiate could be off-putting for Aries, who prefers to lead themselves. At the same time, Cancer tends to prioritize emotions over logic, whereas Aries can do just the opposite, sometimes making brash comments that Cancer could take to heart.

Water sign Pisces isn’t typically a great fit for Aries, either. “Aries leads with their head and Pisces leads with their heart and intuition. While they might admire the qualities the other has that they lack, understanding each other’s motivations could be challenging,” says Sunday. Aside from their emotional water-sign traits (which could result in teary-eyed fights with Aries), Pisces also marks the end of the zodiacal calendar, whereas Aries starts the beginning of a new one. In turn, Pisces skews more contemplative, reflecting on lessons from the past; Aries, on the other hand, is all about the future.

Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn) may also struggle to take in Aries’s high-octane temperament. Where the Earth signs are grounded, organized, and methodical, Aries can be more spontaneous, impulsive, and adventurous in spirit. Specifically, Sunday says Virgo and Taurus are the ones that would make the least sense with Aries. For one, “Virgo appreciates discernment and likes to have a plan in place…while Aries is more likely to fly by the seat of their pants,” Sunday explains.

As for Taurus, Sunday says Aries doesn’t move quickly enough for Aries. “They have a lot to learn from each other, but Aries is unlikely to want to match Taurus’ slow and steady pace,” says Sunday. Taurus is also logic-leaning, while Aries people are known for their temper—which wouldn’t fare well with Taurus’ stubbornness. They’d have to put in a lot of effort in holding space for each other while not compromising on their individual needs.

That said, it’s important to remember that, again, astrological compatibility runs deeper than sun signs alone. (Remember the whole birth chart thing?) And while some signs might not be well-suited for Aries on paper, there can always be an exception to the rule. (So if you’re an Aries and your prospective or current partner is one of the signs they’re said to be least compatible with, or vice versa, you don’t need to give up all hope—it’s always possible that you’re the exception!)

For a deeper dive into how Aries is likely to get along with every other zodiac sign (including where they’re most likely to find common ground or face disagreements), read on for a sign-by-sign breakdown of Aries compatibility.

How does Aries compatibility vary with different signs?

Aries and Aries Compatibility

A double Aries match is likely to happen quickly since the fire sign is often the type to go all in when they meet someone they vibe with, and they’ll appreciate each other’s sense of spontaneity. Together they can inspire each other’s passions while respecting each other’s need for space. But, Sunday warns, “this connection is also more likely to be quick versus long-standing.”

Plus, Sunday explains that there could also be a sense of competition in terms of power. “Trouble could arise when deciding who gets to be in charge,” she says. Sharing is the remedy, explains Sunday. “For best results, these two need to take turns playing the leader,” she adds.

Aries and Taurus Compatibility

While an Aries and Taurus couple can relate to each other’s need for space, they don’t really have a lot in common beyond that. On one hand, Aries is driven by their passion, which can be overwhelming to a grounded and logical sign like Taurus. On the other hand, Taurus’ pace can make Aries anxious and grow frustrated with Taurus’ laid-back, steady mindset.

But it’s not all doomed, explains Sunday. “Seemingly very different people, they can get along if they play to each other’s strengths,” she says. “Taurus can teach Aries how to stick around for the things they really care about.”

Aries and Gemini Compatibility

Gemini and Aries people share similar motives and traits, which makes this a powerful and long-lasting couple. “Aries and Gemini make a charming pair likely to get off on debates and poking fun at one another. They both excel at moving quickly and could make fast friends or lovers…or friends that become lovers!” says Sunday.

Although Aries are initiators, they tend to struggle with the follow-through—that’s where Gemini comes in. “Aries can help Gemini bring all their flighty thoughts into action,” says Sunday. Plus, Gemini can keep the fire and passion alive in Gemini’s long list of pursuits.

Aries and Cancer Compatibility

One way to describe an Aries and Cancer couple? A mother and child dynamic, explains Sunday. Aries is the first sign in the zodiac, and likewise, eager, hungry for experiences, but a little naive at times. “Cancerians are known as the ultimate mother archetype,” says Sunday. “If their reputations precede them, this pair might end up in a parent/child dynamic without realizing it.” Cancer has no qualms about babying its Aries counterpart, so long as Aries allows themselves to be coddled without feeling stifled.

Cancer’s ability to hold space for Aries can encourage them to be vulnerable and express their hotheaded nature without feeling judged or dismissed. “Aries can learn from Cancer’s nurturing ways, and teach their lunar love that it’s OK to leave the past behind,” adds Sunday.

Aries and Leo Compatibility

As fire signs, Aries and Leo people can make a strong couple, and as Sunday puts it, find common ground, since they share similar motivations in life. Both signs find excitement and fill any room with laughter. Beyond that, “Aries can learn from Leo’s ability to stick with creative projects…but there will need to be compromises to avoid unnecessary drama,” says Sunday. The drama? Fighting for attention and finding the next thrill, probably.

On the other hand, these twin fire signs are strong personalities and may struggle to let one another take the lead. “they both like to do things their own way, though, and assume leadership positions without thinking twice,” adds Sunday.

Aries and Virgo Compatibility

It might be difficult for Aries and Virgo people to make things work in the long-term for a few reasons. For one, “Aries doesn’t usually take the time to plan things out thoroughly, preferring to operate on instinct…and Virgo can be the opposite,” explains Sunday. Aries’ impulsivity may be worrisome to Virgo, and Virgo’s organized and practical approach to life may feel restrictive and somewhat boring to Aries.

However, if Aries can allow Virgo to take the lead in planning, and Virgo can warm up to Aries’ whims, they can make things work. “These two have a lot to learn from each other!” says Sunday. “Aries can benefit from Virgo’s discerning eye and knack for spotting the details that slip through the cracks.”

Aries and Libra Compatibility

As sister signs (aka the signs that sit exactly opposite of each other in the zodiac wheel), Aries and Libra make a solid pair. “Opposites can definitely attract, but it might be harder for them to meet in the middle than other pairings,” explains Sunday. They both have the potential to play to one another’s strengths, while also balancing each other’s shortcomings. Aries can be feisty and impulsive, while Libra is all about the finer things and takes time to make decisions, so Libra can benefit from Aries’ urgency, while Aries can learn from Libra’s natural empathy.

While they share many differences, being opposite signs isn’t necessarily cause for concern—two developed signs may actually thrive together. “Aries will be attracted to Libra’s sweetness and Libra will love Aries’ bravado. This is a fairytale pairing,” Sunday adds. Libra and Aries will host memorable parties, have deep, meaningful conversations, while also enjoying a passionate physical relationship.

Aries and Scorpio Compatibility

Aries and Scorpio have a lot of potential for a deep bond, with enough compromise and understanding. In traditional astrology, Scorpio is ruled by Mars, so they can relate to Aries’ passionate heart and Aries can appreciate Scorpio’s depth. “They’re both ready for action, but they attack things in very different ways,” explains Sunday. Aries is driven more by external validation, while Scorpio strikes in their inner world.

Plus, they’re both intense, so they’ll have no problem meshing well in the bedroom. Aries’ strong sense of self can be seen as a safe space for Scorpio to open up, while Scorpio can bring Aries down to Earth in the emotional department.

Aries and Sagittarius Compatibility

Both Aries and Sagittarius are fire signs, “which recognize each other as being cut from similar cloth,” says Sunday. Aries and Sagittarius share a love for novelty and exploration—especially with each other. “Aries knows how to have a good time and Sagittarius is often the life of the party!” she adds.

Beyond fun, though, Sunday says these two can push each other in positive ways. “Sagittarius pushes Aries to try unfamiliar things, and Aries appreciates the adventure,” says Sunday. Not only will they explore uncharted territory together, but they can feel full and empowered together since they both value making the most out of every situation and share an eagerness to learn.

Aries and Capricorn Compatibility

Aries and Capricorn people are extremely different people—“Aries is rarely described as serious, and Capricorn is the ultimate rule follower,” explains Sunday. Aries’ drive for spontaneity and excitement may seem immature to Capricorn, and Aries may struggle to understand Capricorn’s studious and stoic nature. For that reason, “these two energies don’t see eye to eye naturally, but can benefit from each other in specific ways,” she adds.

For one, they can add value to where one falls short. “Aries can teach traditional Capricorn how to get a wild hair, and Capricorn will (at least attempt) to instill patience in Aries,” says Sunday. What’s more, “They’re both born leaders and could accomplish a lot with give and take,” she adds.

Aries and Aquarius Compatibility

Aries and Aquarius are both independent signs, so they’re apt to respect each other’s boundaries. These two are both creative and quirky in their own right, and because of their shared curiosity and thrill for experiences, these two can build solid ground together. “While the Aquarius might mystify straight-forward Aries with their kooky ways, they’re likely both amused by the other,” says Sunday.

However, “Aries should allow Aquarius to teach them things rather than get defensive about not already knowing it! This is a fun pair that could facilitate progressive action,” says Sunday. Aries people also tend to get caught up in the heat of the moment, so Aquarius will also have to manage their aloofness and ensure they aren’t icing out the fire sign’s deep well of emotions.

Aries and Pisces Compatibility

It might seem like Aries and Pisces don’t have much in common to build a solid foundation, but Sunday argues that they have the potential to complement each other. “Aries knows how to start things and Pisces knows how to finish them! Signs that are beside each other on the zodiacal wheel can’t see each other easily…but they have a lot to pass back and forth,” she explains.

Aries is action-forward, while Pisces is a dreamer, and they can create magic if they put their minds and hearts together. “These are both passionate signs in their own ways and Aries will appreciate Pisces’ empathy towards their latest endeavor,” says Sunday. Plus, Pisces’ compassion can iron out Aries’ temper.