An Everything Guide to Cancer in Astrology

Cancer is among the most beguiling signs of the zodiac. Symbolized by the crab, the fourth sign of the zodiac (there are 12 total) is a complex mix of vulnerability and strength. If your birthday falls between June 21 and July 22, then you totally get the vibe: Your sun sign is Cancer — meaning you know how to care deeply but also retreat back into your shell when things get a little too intense. (And if you’re wondering how Cancer influences the rest of your chart, grab your birth details and dig into our guide to calculating and reading your birth chart.)

As a water sign ruled by the moon (the luminary that governs emotions and intuition), Cancers are known for their nurturing spirit, incredible instincts, and profound sensitivity. Yes, they feel everything, but they’re also natural protectors who will fiercely defend their loved ones. But there’s a lot more to this sign than all things emo. Curious about what inspires Cancer, what brings them comfort, and who they connect with most? Keep reading for a full breakdown of Cancer’s personality, strengths, and relationships.

Tell me again: When does Cancer season start and end?

Cancer season begins at the summer solstice, which is on or around (calendars change, man!) June 21, and concludes on or around July 22.

And what are Cancer’s typical personality traits?

Cancer has a unique ability to navigate between the emotional depths and the material world, carefully weaving between the sea and the shore like, yes, a crab. Like tidal crustaceans, Cancers are highly sensitive to their surroundings and can effortlessly pick up on the energy in any room, enabling them to sense emotional undercurrents and respond accordingly. That said, Cancers are also fiercely self-protective, guarded by their tough, hard-shell exterior. At first glance, they may seem distant or reserved, but once you’ve earned their trust, their true nature — full of compassion, warmth, and unyielding protection — shines through. But watch out, because those crab claws definitely can pinch, too!

What element is Cancer? And what does that mean?

Cancer is a water sign, which totally tracks. Water signs are all about emotions, intuition, and deep connections, which really epitomizes the Cancerian spirit. Cancer thrives in environments where they can express their sensitivity, creating safe spaces for themselves and others to feel seen and supported.

What is Cancer’s ruling planet?

Cancer is ruled by the moon — technically not a planet, I know! — which governs emotions, intuition, and our inner world. Just like the moon waxes and wanes, so do Cancer’s moods, making their emotional landscape an ever-changing terrain. And because the moon symbolizes our relationship with mothers and material figures, it perfectly reflects Cancer’s caretaking and nurturing spirit; crabs carry their home on their back, so creating safe environments — for self and others — is always of the utmost importance.

So about Cancer compatibility: What zodiac signs are the best and worst matches for Cancer?

Cancer craves emotional depth and security in relationships, so they’re best matched with signs that offer stability and emotional support. Taurus and Virgo, both grounded earth signs, can provide the steady foundation that Cancer seeks. Pisces and Scorpio, fellow water signs, will also resonate with Cancer’s emotional intensity and create bonds based on deep, intuitive understanding. But fire signs like Aries and Leo might overwhelm Cancer with their assertiveness, while Aquarius (an air sign), with its detached — somewhat clinical approach to life — can leave Cancer feeling unseen and, subsequently, unfulfilled.

What are Cancer’s strengths?

Cancer’s strengths are tied to emotional intelligence and nurturing instincts. Cancers are always seeking to create a sense of safety and comfort for themselves and their loved ones, so establishing a secure, protective environment is of the utmost importance for them, and they will go to great lengths to ensure their personal world feels like a sanctuary. Their intuition is second to none, allowing them to offer care and support that often feels telepathic. This sensitivity also fuels creativity, giving them the ability to express even the most complex emotions through art, music, and storytelling. Whether through heartfelt lyrics or personal narratives, Cancer has the unique gift of making those around them feel deeply understood and valued, always striving to make others feel at home in their presence.

And what are Cancer’s weaknesses?

While Cancer’s gentle tenderness is a true strength, it can also manifest in overprotectiveness, jealousy, and an inability to let go of past hurts. Cancers often hold on to people, memories, and emotions long after they’ve outgrown them, which can weigh them down. When they feel threatened or pained, Cancers are known to slip into passive-aggressive behaviors, expressing their needs in indirect ways. Rather than confront the issue head-on, Cancer may retreat into their shell, hoping others will be able to read their mind and sense their feelings … which is easier said than done.

Famous Cancer celebrities?

Lana Del Rey, Pamela Anderson, Selena Gomez, Solange Knowles, and Post Malone, known for their emotional depth and ability to connect with audiences on a profound level, are perfect Cancer representatives. Whether through their art or their personal lives, these Cancer-born stars embody the sign’s nurturing energy and emotional intelligence, making their raw authenticity a defining component of their artistry.

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