This can be a difficult match. Although both signs require a partner to feel complete, Libra tends to be a social butterfly, whereas Cancer is a homebody. When Cancers do go out, they usually prefer to spend time outdoors or at a peaceful local venue such as a neighborhood pub, whereas Libras are typically more interested in attending events and meeting new people. Cancer likes to spend plenty of time alone with a partner, and may have difficulty with Libra’s desire to maintain friendships and participate in activities outside of the primary relationship (Cancer will be particularly distressed by Libra’s tendency to flirt).
Another problem with this pairing is that Libra is unlikely to understand Cancer’s desire for emotional support and can be unsympathetic when Cancer is most in need of compassion. Libras swing more toward the intellectual and rational end of the spectrum than its emotional and intuitive side, so they are often bewildered by Cancerian moods and insecurities. Libra also tends to be easy going and careless with money, which can bother pragmatic, security-loving Cancer.
Serious differences in the way these two signs relate to others can also create problems. Cancer prefers to confront issues head on, whereas Libra avoids confrontation at all costs. This can lead to a situation where Cancer nags and provokes while Libra avoids, deceives, or escapes. Another relational problem arises from the fact that Libras seek egalitarian relationships, whereas Cancers typically prefer to either take care of others or have others take care of them. As a result, Libra may find Cancer too bossy or needy, while Cancer finds Libra cold and uncaring.
This combination does have some positive features (though it works best if other elements in their natal zodiacs bring their temperaments into better alignment). Libra tends to be diplomatic, which reduces the risk of accidentally causing emotional harm to sensitive Cancer, and Cancer is nurturing, which can extend to the creation of a beautiful and harmonious home that Libra will appreciate.
Note: There is more to astrological compatibility than sun signs alone. Other elements in a person’s natal zodiac also play a role. Ascendants (rising signs), moon signs, and other planetary placements and aspects also shape personality and affect compatibility. For example, a Capricorn with Leo rising will be more extroverted than a typical Capricorn, and a Taurus with Aries rising or the moon in Sagittarius will be more compatible with Sagittarius than a typical Taurus. For more information on other natal chart elements, see Astrology Sun, Moon, and Ascendant.
To read more sun sign compatibility profiles, visit the Astrological Compatibility page. For sun sign personality profiles, love and friendship styles, astrology gifts, careers, and more, see the main Astrology page.