How To Meet People In A New City

It’s no secret that moving to a new city can be tough on all members of the family. Your old city had the restaurants you loved, the neighborhood spots you frequented, and most of all, a community. Whether you’ve made a temporary move or a permanent one, the best way to get acclimated in a new city is to jump right in. Here’s how to meet people in a new city.

1. Meet Your Neighbors
Years ago, when a family would move into a new neighborhood they’d be immediately greeted by neighbors with fresh baked goods and lots of smiles and small talk. This isn’t as common anymore, but if you want to plug into your new neighborhood quickly, don’t be afraid to reverse the rolls. Consider taking a welcoming gift — cookies, cupcakes, a great-smelling candle — to your new neighbors with your contact information attached. Ask about upcoming neighborhood get-togethers, and consider offering to host a barbecue to get acquainted as soon as you can. You never know when you might need to reach out to your neighbors!

2. Volunteer
Finding an organization you can support through volunteering is a quick way to meet a welcoming group of people. It will also help you better understand your new city and the needs of its community. Getting started is as simple as a quick Google search of non-profits in the area.

3. Take A Class
Do you have an interest in photography, gardening, cooking, dancing, or exercising? Chances are, whatever the interest, there’s a class for it in your new city. Meeting people with shared interests and passions is a great way to find a new friend base.

4. Join A Neighborhood Social Network
There are several social networks and apps for homeowners that are designed to connect neighborhoods, and joining one is an easy way to meet your neighbors and stay up-to-date with what’s going on in your area. You can even use the networks to find recommendations and referrals for different services from people who live nearby.

5. Join A Team
If you enjoy intramural sports, find a team and join it. Your neighborhood might even have its own teams. If you aren’t sure where to start, search online and contact a league that can likely place you on a team with an opening. You’ll have a whole roster of buddies in no time!

Moving to a new city is a great opportunity to expand your horizons, switch up your routine, and connect with new people. And the more quickly you plug in, the less time you’ll spend missing your old city.