Moving to a new city can feel isolating, but forming connections doesn’t have to take months. Here’s how you can quickly build friendships:
- Coliving Spaces: Shared living arrangements with events and communal areas help you meet people fast. Choose spaces with active community calendars and features like open kitchens or co-working areas.
- Community Events: Attend activities like group dinners, movie nights, or outings. Say yes to invitations and make plans with those you connect with.
- Apps: Use platforms like Meetup for group activities or Bumble BFF for one-on-one connections. Pair these with your coliving network for more opportunities.
- Shared Hobbies: Join local groups or host activities in your coliving space. Consistency in hobbies strengthens bonds.
- Overcome Challenges: Coliving eases social anxiety with casual, repeated interactions. Start small - smile, say hi, and ask open-ended questions.
Coliving spaces, combined with events, apps, and hobbies, offer a fast track to forming meaningful friendships. Ready to meet new people? Platforms like Coliving.com can help you find your ideal community.
5 Steps to Make Friends Quickly in a New City Through Coliving
Step 1: Use Coliving Spaces to Connect with People Instantly
Why Coliving Works for Meeting People
Coliving spaces are perfect for turning casual encounters into meaningful connections. Studies suggest it takes around 40–60 hours of interaction to transition from being acquaintances to casual friends, and coliving naturally creates that time. Whether you're bumping into someone in the shared kitchen over breakfast, working alongside them in the communal co-working area, or unwinding together in the lounge, these spaces are designed for interaction.
The shared areas - lounges, kitchens, rooftop terraces, and even fitness studios - are thoughtfully planned to encourage socializing. As Madison Moose-Barrington, Onboarding and Experience Manager at Common, explains: "Community building is key... we focus on setting by having beautifully curated community spaces."
"In a coliving situation... people who choose this kind of intentional shared living arrangement agree to create something beautiful together: Community." - Kat Vellos, Author and Community Expert
Beyond the design of the space, dedicated community managers play a big role in fostering connections. They organize events like communal dinners, game nights, yoga sessions, and wine tastings, which make meeting people feel natural rather than forced. Experts suggest choosing spaces with at least one community facilitator for every 30 residents to ensure a vibrant social atmosphere. Also, take a look at the event calendar - regular activities signal a strong commitment to building a sense of community.
These features make coliving spaces an excellent starting point for finding a place that aligns with your lifestyle and social goals.
How to Pick the Right Coliving Space on Coliving.com
To make the most of coliving, choose a space that matches your personality and priorities. On Coliving.com, don’t just focus on location and price - dig deeper. Look for spaces that emphasize community and connection. These are often labeled as "community-led" or "intentional", attracting residents who are eager to engage and build friendships.
Spaces with open kitchens, theater rooms, and co-working areas naturally create more chances for interaction. Check if the property offers a resident app or online forum - these tools make it easy to organize meetups and stay in touch with housemates.
The event calendar is another key factor. Spaces that host regular activities like skill-sharing sessions, potluck dinners, or workshops show they’re serious about creating a lively community. Also, consider who else lives there. Properties that attract newcomers to the city often have a welcoming vibe, as everyone is in the same boat and looking to make connections.
With over 1,900 coliving spaces across 380 cities available on Coliving.com, you can filter by lifestyle preferences to find your ideal community. Whether you’re a remote worker seeking a professional network or a creative looking for like-minded housemates, aligning your interests with the space’s culture helps you build friendships from the very start.
Step 2: Attend Community Events and Activities
Once you're settled into your coliving space, it’s time to dive into the events and activities designed to bring residents together.
Common Coliving Events You Can Join
Coliving spaces are known for hosting a variety of events that make it easy to meet new people. From wine tastings and themed parties to rooftop movie nights, live concerts, creative workshops, and even spa days, these gatherings create natural opportunities for connection.
Food-focused events are particularly effective at breaking the ice. Group brunches, BBQs, and communal dinners encourage conversation over a shared meal. Many spaces also organize active outings like hiking trips or neighborhood walks, giving you a chance to explore your new surroundings while getting to know your neighbors. Madison Moose-Barrington, Onboarding and Experience Manager at Common, emphasizes:
"We also foster a sense of community by hosting city-wide events each month so our members can meet new people and explore their city."
Some communities even allow residents to take the lead in organizing events. Through internal apps, you can set up activities like weekend brunches, book swaps, or museum visits tailored to your interests.
How to Get the Most from Community Events
Consistency is key when attending events. For the first few months, try to say yes to as many invitations as possible - even if they push you slightly out of your comfort zone. This helps you meet a variety of people and figure out which activities you enjoy the most.
Arriving early and staying a bit later can give you quieter moments to strike up meaningful conversations. A simple way to connect is by asking for local recommendations. And when you click with someone, don’t just exchange numbers - make plans right away. As Madison Moose-Barrington advises:
"It's important to take the step to make another plan if you want to make friends in a new city. It's very easy to exchange numbers and end contact from there."
Volunteering at events like potlucks or movie nights is another great way to build connections. Working alongside others on a shared task often leads to deeper conversations and quicker friendships. Studies show that spending consistent time together strengthens bonds, and coliving events are designed to give you plenty of opportunities for those repeated interactions.
Step 3: Use Apps to Meet More People
Top Apps for Meeting People in a New City
Your coliving circle is just the beginning. Apps like Meetup and Bumble For Friends (BFF mode) can help you branch out and meet even more people in your new city. Meetup is perfect for group activities like hiking, book clubs, or even trivia nights. If you subscribe to Meetup's Member+ plan, you can use the "Who Will Be There" feature, which lets you see if attendees are there to "Make friends" or for professional networking. This makes it easier to pick events that align with your goals. Pair these app connections with your coliving network to maximize your opportunities.
Bumble BFF, on the other hand, focuses on one-on-one connections. It matches you with potential friends based on shared interests and proximity, all while keeping things strictly platonic - no awkward dating vibes here. Some people even use Bumble BFF before moving to a new city, so they’re already building connections before they arrive. When meeting someone from an app, always choose a public place for your first meetup.
Combining Coliving Connections with Online Networking
Your coliving housemates can be a great resource to help you expand your social network. Many coliving spaces have apps or platforms like Connect by Common, which make it easy to coordinate with neighbors. For instance, you can team up with a housemate to attend a Meetup event or explore local groups you’ve found online. Having someone from your coliving community join you can make walking into a room full of strangers feel less intimidating.
Once you’ve made connections through Bumble BFF or Meetup, invite them to a coliving event like a rooftop movie night or a casual brunch. This is a great way to blend different social circles and introduce your new friends to each other. Connection coach Kat Vellos highlights the value of this approach:
"Reaching out to friends of friends, or friends of colleagues, is one of the most fruitful avenues for potential connections."
Your housemates can also be a goldmine of information about local spots or niche groups that might not show up in your online searches. Ask them for recommendations based on your interests - you might discover a hidden gem or a recurring class that’s perfect for you.
Step 4: Make Friends Through Shared Hobbies
Shared hobbies are a natural way to strengthen connections, especially when paired with your coliving and community event experiences. Activities like cooking, gaming, or sports create an easygoing environment where conversations flow effortlessly. As Jeffrey A. Hall, a professor at the University of Kansas, explains:
"Activity similarity - or shared interests - is a key component to forming lasting friendships."
The trick? Focus on consistency over variety. Instead of dabbling in ten different hobbies, choose one or two and stick with them regularly. For example, attending the same yoga class or weekly gaming night builds familiarity through repeated interactions, turning casual acquaintances into genuine friends.
Discovering Shared Hobbies in Your Coliving Space
Coliving spaces are ideal for uncovering shared interests with housemates. Many offer communal kitchens for group cooking, media rooms for movie or gaming nights, and fitness areas for shared workouts. Hosting small events - like potlucks, playlist swaps, or hobby demos - is a great way to learn what everyone enjoys. These relaxed gatherings make it easy to spot shared passions.
Take the lead in organizing these activities. Don’t wait for someone else to make the first move. Whether it’s inviting housemates to a cooking class, a tennis game, or a dance workshop, your initiative can spark connections. Once you identify shared interests within your coliving space, take it a step further by exploring local groups and events together.
Exploring Local Hobby Groups
Your coliving network can also help you discover local hobby groups. Ask housemates about their favorite spots - maybe there’s a weekly basketball game at a nearby park or a pottery studio offering drop-in sessions. Meeting friends of friends through these activities often leads to warm introductions and shared values.
For interests outside your immediate circle, platforms like Nextdoor are great for finding neighborhood-specific groups, from hiking meetups to book clubs. In the beginning, say yes to as many opportunities as possible, even if they don’t seem like a perfect fit. Casting a wide net increases your chances of meeting people who align with your interests. And when you do click with someone during an activity, don’t hesitate - suggest a follow-up, like grabbing coffee after your next workout or attending a related event together.
Step 5: Overcome Common Socializing Challenges
Moving to a new city often comes with its fair share of challenges - fear of rejection, social anxiety, and those inevitable moments of awkwardness. In fact, nearly half of adults report feeling anxious after periods of isolation. Coliving offers a unique solution by creating repeated, low-pressure opportunities to interact, which can help ease these hurdles.
How Coliving Makes Starting Conversations Easier
One of the standout benefits of coliving is how it takes the stress out of starting conversations. Unlike traditional apartment living, where neighbors might feel like strangers, coliving encourages frequent, casual interactions in shared spaces like kitchens, lounges, or during group dinners. These recurring, low-stakes encounters naturally turn introductions into friendships over time.
Plus, the shared environment offers ready-made conversation starters. Instead of struggling with small talk, you can comment on the meal someone’s cooking, ask about the book they’re reading, or join an ongoing group discussion. And because these interactions often happen in group settings, you’re not stuck in a one-on-one conversation - if things don’t click, you can easily move on without feeling uncomfortable.
By removing the pressure of forced interactions, coliving creates the perfect environment to build confidence at your own pace.
Practical Tips for Building Confidence
Building confidence in social settings starts with small, manageable steps. Here’s how you can ease into it:
- Start with something simple, like a smile or a friendly “Hi.”
- Follow up with an easy question, such as, “Have you tried the coffee shop nearby?”
- Let each small success build on the last.
If you’re feeling nervous, don’t be afraid to admit it. Lewis Elliot, a certified life coach, advises:
"Sharing that you're nervous can be liberating! And, chances are, other people looking for friends are just as nervous as you."
Being open about your feelings can help build trust and make interactions feel more genuine. To keep conversations flowing, ask open-ended questions - think “What’s your favorite thing about this city?” or “How did you end up here?” - and focus on listening. This shifts the spotlight off yourself and reduces the urge to overanalyze.
It’s also important to stay open-minded. Don’t write people off based on first impressions, age, or background. As Dr. Marisa G. Franco, Psychologist and Author, explains:
"It's about being open. The people you meet first might be people who are just fun to hang out with, and not your friendship soulmates. But they are part of the process of finding those people with whom you do deeply connect."
Lastly, make an effort to connect with others who are also new to the city. People in similar situations are often more open to forming new friendships, making it easier to find your footing in a new social circle.
Conclusion
Let’s take a moment to tie everything together and see how these strategies can help you build friendships when settling into a new city.
By taking these five steps - choosing the right coliving space, attending local events, using apps thoughtfully, diving into shared hobbies, and tackling social hurdles - you can form meaningful connections much faster than you might expect. Studies show that casual acquaintances can grow into close friendships with consistent interaction. Coliving speeds up this process by putting you in an environment where proximity and frequent interactions are the norm. Plus, it removes common obstacles to making friends by surrounding you with like-minded individuals in spaces designed for connection.
This approach isn’t just convenient - it turns a new city into an instant community.
Ready to move past the lonely adjustment phase? Check out the options on Coliving.com and find a community that fits your lifestyle. With over 2,000 coliving spaces in 400 cities across 70+ countries, you can book a fully furnished home with built-in social opportunities starting at just $100 per month. Take that first step today, join a coliving community, and start building the connections that will make your new city truly feel like home.
FAQs
How can I find a coliving space that suits my personality?
Finding the right coliving space can make all the difference when settling into a new city. Start by thinking about your social preferences. Are you someone who thrives in vibrant, social environments, or do you prefer a quieter, more private atmosphere? If you enjoy meeting new people and participating in events, look for spaces with shared kitchens, spacious common areas, and regular community activities. On the other hand, if you value your alone time, consider smaller spaces with private rooms and designated quiet zones, allowing for occasional social interactions without feeling overwhelmed.
It’s also worth considering your interests and hobbies. Many coliving spaces are designed around specific themes, such as fitness, art, or sustainability. Choosing a community that reflects your passions can help you connect with others who share your interests. For instance, if yoga is your thing, look for a space that offers weekly sessions. If you work remotely, prioritize spaces with co-working lounges or office setups to support your productivity.
Before committing, take the time to visit or explore potential spaces through virtual tours. This helps you get a sense of the community vibe. Observe how residents interact - do they seem friendly and inclusive, or more reserved? When a space feels like a natural match for your personality and lifestyle, it’s easier to build meaningful connections while enjoying shared amenities.
In the U.S., coliving spaces typically cost between $1,200 and $2,500 per month, depending on the city and the type of room you choose. With a little research, you can find an option that suits both your budget and your preferences.
What are some practical tips for overcoming social anxiety when meeting new people in a new city?
Moving to a new city can be exciting, but it can also stir up feelings of social anxiety. Tackling those feelings starts with taking small, approachable steps. One great way to ease into meeting people is by joining activities or groups that align with your interests. Think about signing up for a hobby class, attending a local meetup, or even exploring a coliving community. These types of settings naturally encourage conversation and take the pressure off having to start interactions from scratch.
Set simple, achievable goals to help you ease into social situations. For example, you could aim to attend one event each week or introduce yourself to one new person. If you feel anxiety creeping in, take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and remind yourself it’s okay to feel uneasy - it’s a normal part of stepping outside your comfort zone. Apps like Meetup or Bumble BFF can also be useful for connecting with people online before meeting in person, which can make those first interactions feel a little less daunting.
Most importantly, treat yourself with kindness. Social anxiety is something many people experience, especially when adjusting to a new environment. Celebrate even the smallest victories, give yourself permission to take breaks, and remember that forming meaningful connections doesn’t happen overnight. By combining structured activities, gradual steps, and plenty of self-compassion, you’ll gradually build confidence in navigating social situations in your new city.
How can I use apps like Meetup and Bumble BFF to make friends in a new city?
Using apps like Meetup and Bumble BFF can simplify the process of meeting people with shared interests. To get started, download the apps and create a complete profile. Make sure to include a friendly photo, a short bio, and a list of your favorite hobbies. On Bumble, switch to BFF mode to focus specifically on finding friends instead of dates.
Once your profile is set, dive into the options these platforms offer. On Meetup, browse groups that align with your interests - whether it’s hiking, book clubs, or casual coffee gatherings. On Bumble BFF, use filters to match with people who share similar hobbies. Take the first step by RSVPing to a Meetup event or swiping on Bumble profiles that catch your eye. When you connect with someone, break the ice with a friendly message like, "Hey, I noticed you’re into hiking - do you have any favorite local trails?"
The most important part? Show up and get involved. Attend events in person, introduce yourself, and engage with others. If you hit it off with someone, suggest meeting up again to strengthen the connection. By staying active and consistent, you’ll find it easier to form genuine friendships in your new city.
