How to Meet People in Your 30s

As we enter our 30s, our priorities in life begin to shift. While making new friends may not be at the top of our to-do list, it’s important to maintain social connections and meet new people. Whether you’ve recently moved to a new city, or you simply want to expand your social circle, meeting new people in your 30s can be daunting. But fear not! Here are some tips on how to meet people and form lasting connections in your 30s.

1.  Join a hobby group or club: One of the best ways to meet people with similar interests is to join a hobby group or club. Whether it’s a book club, a hiking group, or a cooking class, these groups offer a fun and relaxed environment to meet new people. You can find these groups through websites such as Meetup, Eventbrite or Facebook groups. By joining a group, you’re already surrounded by people with similar interests, making it easier to strike up a conversation and make connections.

Most cities have a board game bar/café these days. Those can be a great place to meet new people.

2.  Attend social events: Social events are a great way to meet new people. Attend parties, dinners, and social gatherings hosted by your friends or colleagues. Don’t turn down invitations simply because you don’t know many people attending. You never know who you might meet! Put yourself out there and make an effort to strike up conversations. Be open and friendly, and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to new people.

3.  Volunteer for a cause you care about: Volunteering for a cause you care about is a great way to meet people who share your values and passions. Not only will you be doing something meaningful and fulfilling, but you’ll also be surrounded by like-minded people who share your interests. You can find volunteer opportunities through websites such as VolunteerMatch, Idealist, or even your local community center.

4.  Take a class or workshop: Taking a class or workshop is a great way to learn something new and meet new people. Whether it’s a language class, a dance class, or a photography workshop, these classes offer a fun and interactive way to connect with others. You’ll have the opportunity to work with other people in the class, and you can use that time to strike up conversations and get to know each other better.

5.  Attend networking events: Networking events aren’t just for business professionals. They’re also a great way to meet new people and expand your social circle. Attend events hosted by professional associations or industry organizations in your field, or attend events hosted by your local Chamber of Commerce. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and strike up a conversation with people. You never know who you might meet and what opportunities may arise.

6.  Use dating apps to meet new people: While dating apps are often used for romantic purposes, they can also be a great way to meet new people and form new connections. Platforms such as Bumble and Hinge allow you to meet people with similar interests and hobbies, and you can use these apps to form platonic connections as well. Be clear in your intentions and don’t be afraid to swipe right on people you’d like to be friends with.

7.  Attend a meetup or social event for your alumni association: If you’re an alum of a college or university, attend a meetup or social event hosted by your alumni association. These events are a great way to connect with people who share your educational background, and you’ll have plenty to talk about. You can find these events on your alumni association’s website or through social media.

8.  Get involved in a sports league or fitness group: If you’re into sports or fitness, getting involved in a sports league or fitness group is a great way to meet new people. Join a local softball league, sign up for a yoga class, or attend a running club. Not only will you be getting exercise and staying healthy, but you’ll also be surrounded by people with similar interests. Use these opportunities to connect with others and form new friendships.

9.  Attend concerts or shows: If you’re a music or theater lover, attending concerts or shows is a great way to meet people who share your interests. Strike up conversations with the people around you and bond over your love of music or theater. You can also attend events hosted by local music or theater groups to meet like-minded people.

10. Join a co-working space: If you’re self-employed or work remotely, joining a co-working space is a great way to meet new people. Not only will you have a dedicated workspace, but you’ll also be surrounded by other professionals who may be able to offer advice or mentorship. Strike up conversations with other members and get to know them better.

11. Attend book signings or author events: If you’re a book lover, attending book signings or author events is a great way to meet other bookworms. Strike up conversations with other attendees and bond over your favorite books or authors. You can find these events through local bookstores or libraries.

12. Take a trip or join a travel group: If you love to travel, taking a trip or joining a travel group is a great way to meet new people. You’ll be traveling with a group of like-minded people, giving you plenty of opportunities to connect and form new friendships. You can find travel groups through websites such as Meetup or Travello.

I hope you found these tips and ideas helpful, and that you're feeling optimistic and hopeful about your ability to form new friendships and connections. Remember, meeting new people can be challenging, but it can also be fun, exciting, and rewarding. So go out there, try new things, and be open to new experiences and opportunities. You never know who you might meet or where your new friendships may take you. Good luck!