OP, I'm a senior member of the board and have dated in every decade going back to the 80s. I'm not going to preach and reminisce about the "old times" but up until about 15 years ago, it was easy to meet women organically. Sure there was online dating, and it was a pain in the a$s then too, but it was no where near the level of bulls*it guys have to deal with now. Not even close. People actually tried in relationships and women weren't nearly as delusional, low quality, and b*tchy as they are now.
So to answer your question OP, yes, it's much, much tougher now to date women and almost impossible to find one worth investing in.
My advice: Focus on YOU and build the best life you can, and do it solo. Focus on health, wealth, education, social circle, hobbies, and interests. Invest your money -- this is huge. Go as far as you can with what you've got. A woman will only slow you down and become your #1 critic--seriously. Women can be a fun little side dish on your plate of food in life but NEVER, EVER make them the main course. Almost every man who has solely focused on women for his validation and happiness has come to really regret it. Sure there are successful marriages but they are so few and far between now, it's like betting on a horse that's a 500-1 shot to win. Not a wise investment.
Chase greatness, not women.