There’s nothing like a bit of statistical research to take the romance and love out of the upcoming Valentine’s Day celebration but here goes. Depending upon how the numbers are tabulated, there are anywhere between 90 million and 95 million single people in the United States. And, despite the fairly widespread publicity about online dating services, a small percentage — perhaps just three percent — pay for it. Let’s not forget those who are married or attached who decide to troll online for that special significant other. Or, those consumers who have found remarkable opportunities for free in the blooming sector of online social networks and digital communities.

The fact is that new online dating services or sites almost always draw more men than women at the outset — as much as a nine-to-one margin in most cases. The numbers even out as the service matures but men still use these services more than women (52 percent to 48 percent, respectively).

Mediamark Research’s survey last year showed just how little paid online dating services have penetrated the potential market. In a 30-day period, just a little more than 2.46 million people reported using a paid online dating service.

The data reveal some important trends. Consumers who have sole responsibility for their children are expected to use such services nearly three times more frequently than any other adult group. Also, heavy Internet users seem to drive the most traffic to these specific online services. Those who looked at or used the Internet more than five times a day were expected to use such services at least two and a half times more frequently than any other category of Internet user.

Despite the relatively small market penetration for users of paid online dating services, the profile reflects a balanced representation of consumers in terms of income, education, and age.

Certainly the appeal of online dating has yet to find its widespread reach. Some people may remember, at this time last year, the theatrical release of “Because I Said So,” starring Diane Keaton and Mandy Moore in a cliche-ridden script about a mother who places an online personal on her daughter’s behalf and answers (screens) the potential dating companions. The film was roundly trounced by critics and did only modestly well at the box office (less than $45 million).