How to Make Friends as An Adult

So you’ve hit you’re a certain age and realized… making friends isn’t as easy as it used to be. No more dorm hallways, class partners, or college parties. The thing is when we are younger it’s much easier to make friends! More freedom to go out because you don’t have to worry about who is going to watch the kids. More confidence to just walk up to someone and talk to them? But here’s the good news: friendships in adulthood can work! In fact, they tend to be deeper, more intentional, and beautifully aligned with your values and lifestyle. If you’re craving connection, here are practical (and budget-friendly) ways to make new friends in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond!

1. Engage in Hobbies and Interest Group

Joining clubs, classes, or groups centered around things you love—think pottery, book clubs, dance classes, fitness bootcamps, or crafting circles—gives you a natural way to connect with like-minded women. Shared passions make for easy conversations and lasting bonds.

2. Attend Local Events and Explore Your Community

Solo dates aren’t just self-care—they’re friend-making magic. Head to farmers markets, seasonal festivals, library workshops, or gallery nights. These relaxed, public places make it easier to strike up casual conversations. Think of the event as your “third party.” There is usually a little noise but not too much so you won’t feel awkward and you can actually hear what the other person is saying. There will always be something to talk about at these types of events and as a bonus you will be exploring and supporting your local community!

3. Use Social Apps Designed for Friendship

So you may think that social apps sound cringe but friendship-focused platforms like Meetup.com, Bumble BFF, Yes Tribe, and Peanut for Moms are perfect if you are serious about making friends. When I was learning about how to make friends as an adult, I tried Peanut and it was awesome! You can join groups and those groups host live audio conversations called Peanut Pods. You are able to hop in and communicate with other moms whenever the Peanut Pod is live. Some of the hosts keep the Pods running pretty much all day and you can hop in and out when you want. You don’t have to talk, you can just introduce yourself and listen the whole time until you feel more comfortable. I got to talk to so many moms who were going through the same things that I was! Whether you’re new to town or just want to shake things up, these tools are super helpful for finding people who also want new friends.

4. Host Small Social Gatherings

Be the connector! Invite neighbors or acquaintances over for a nice dinner and game night. I find game-nights to be be most effective when it comes to gatherings. They provide a low-pressure environment so everyone can sort of feel comfortable to be themselves. Also, solving a problem together builds a sense of mutual accomplishment which can lead to stronger connections. You don’t need a big house or budget—just a welcoming spirit and maybe some snacks. Definitely snacks! Lol

Pro Tip: Make the invitation welcoming to kids. Always say, you can bring your kids! Many adults don’t have babysitters and they probably don’t know if you are okay with them bringing their kids along unless you say it outright.

5. Reconnect with Old Friends

Many of us are afraid of connecting with people from our past because we don’t want to be reminded of trauma that we faced in those days but don’t overlook your past! Think about one or two people that you really connected with and was always kind to you. Think high school or college friends, old coworkers, or that one cool person you used to chat with at yoga class. A simple “Hey, I was thinking about you!” can go a long way.

6. Volunteer for a Cause You Care About

Volunteering is a heart-first way to meet people who share your values. Whether it’s helping at a food pantry, walking dogs at a shelter, or mentoring youth, you’re more likely to form friendships when you’re working side-by-side for something meaningful. If you don’t mind going to Church, you can find many volunteer opportunities there! Don’t just go to one service, remain consistent and people will begin to notice when you’re not there. Once you get the feeling that you belong, you will want to continue attending.

7. How to Make Friends as an Adult – Being Proactive and Authentic

This is the big one. Making friends as an adult usually means taking the first step—even when it feels awkward. Start conversations, suggest coffee dates, and ask thoughtful questions. Authenticity trumps small talk every time. One thing I learned about making friends is that people love talking about themselves. Ask them questions about their jobs, kids, and where they’re from etc. They will talk the entire time. Trust me when I say people are waiting to find someone who will actually listen to them.

8. Leverage Your Workplace and Neighborhood

Sometimes your next friend is just down the hall (or across the street). Make an effort to chat more with coworkers or wave to your neighbors. Say yes to post-work happy hours or local events. These regular interactions can blossom into real connections over time.

Pro Tip: Start up a conversation with someone while waiting in line at a grocery store. If that person looks like they are just leaving work, it is likely that they live in the same neighborhood as you and you may see them again in the area!

9. Bring Your Pet to Social Spots

Got a dog. The dog park isn’t just for fetch—it’s prime friend-making real estate. Pet people love to talk about their fur babies, and that’s an easy, low-pressure way to break the ice. When you are walking your dog, you will likely bump into people in your neighborhood that have dogs to. If you walk your dogs around the same time every day, you become more comfortable having a conversation with that person because of familiarity.

10. Keep Showing Up

Friendships take time. Like any relationship, they’re built through repeated connection and trust. Don’t give up if you don’t click right away—consistency and kindness matter more than instant chemistry.

Final Thoughts About Making Friends as an Adult

Making friends doesn’t mean settling for surface-level small talk. It means finding people who really get you—your growth, your joy, your wins, and all the in-between. So take that first step. Be brave, be real, and remember: the right people are out there, looking for you too. I hope you enjoyed this post about how to make friends as an adult. Please let me know in the comments what things have worked for you in the past!