This year, Chicago set out to find the area’s most accomplished, driven, and—sure, we’ll admit it—attractive singles. Judging from the hundreds of nominations that poured in at chicagomag.com, as well as the number of men and women our editors found on their own, it’s not a bad time to be unattached. For starters, the dating pool is wide: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, fewer Americans (51 percent) are hitched today than at any point in the last 50 years, and everybody’s waiting longer to tie the knot. That means plenty of time to travel the world, build a career, and generally distinguish yourself from the pack. Chicago canvassed the market and plucked 20 standouts with swoon-worthy resumés and looks—hey, have we got your attention yet?

PLUS: Check out photos from the Rock of Ages purple carpet at the Summer Lovin' party on June 15.