Making Friends in a New Area in Your 40s – How to Build Connection and Community

Moving to a new area in your 40s can feel both exciting and daunting. Unlike in our 20s when friendships often formed naturally in school or the workplace, making new connections later in life requires more intention and effort. In today’s world, where much of our interaction happens online, it can be even harder to find those in-person moments of connection. But building a community and forming meaningful friendships is still possible! Here are some simple ways to meet new people and create a social circle in your new area.

1. Join a Running (or Walking) Club—Even If You Don’t Think You’re a Runner

   Community-based running and walking groups aren’t just for the ultra-fit. Many welcome all paces—some even have a “walk-run” approach or encourage those starting from scratch. Beyond the fitness benefits, there’s something powerful about having a reason to show up, see familiar faces, and feel part of something. If there’s nothing near you, consider starting something informal—a weekly meet-up in a local park can grow surprisingly quickly with just a few people.

   
   

2. Find a Group Where the Focus Isn’t Just Social

   It’s often easier to connect when you're doing something alongside others rather than sitting face-to-face making conversation. Look for groups with a shared purpose—like community gardening, a sea swim meet-up, or a volunteering project. When you're working towards something together, chats tend to flow more naturally and there's less pressure to "make friends" on the spot. It’s connection that grows through shared experience, not forced small talk.

   
   

3. Be Strategic with Classes and Courses

   Taking a class is a great way to meet people—but if it’s in and out with no chat, it might not lead to new friendships. Look for options that have a social element built in: maybe a post-class tea, a WhatsApp group, or an instructor who encourages connection. Even a beginner’s course in something like pottery, dance, or cooking tends to create more natural bonding than a drop-in session. Consistency matters—the more regularly you see the same people, the more likely it is you’ll connect.

   
   

4. Lean Into Local

   Independent cafés, libraries, and community noticeboards are still goldmines for finding out what’s happening. It’s often where you’ll hear about talks, meet-ups, language exchanges, or parenting groups. The trick is to think small and hyper-local. Online platforms like Eventbrite or local Facebook groups can help too, but often the real gems are the flyers pinned up by the till or the casual “Did you hear about...?” conversations.

   
   

5. Get Involved in a Project, Not Just a Cause

   Volunteering becomes meaningful when you feel part of something being built—whether that’s organising a fundraiser, helping run a local event, or joining a committee. Look for opportunities where your presence makes a difference and where there’s a shared goal or challenge. That’s where a real sense of belonging tends to grow.

   
   

6. Don’t Wait for an Invite—Be the One Who Starts Something

   It might feel uncomfortable at first, but starting something small (a monthly coffee morning, a Sunday stroll, a ‘potluck-style’ dinner) is often what others are waiting for too. Many people in their 40s are craving connection but don’t know how to ask for it. You don’t need a big guest list—just one or two people to start. Consistency and a relaxed vibe are key. The rest tends to build naturally.

Final Thoughts

Making friends in a new place—especially as an adult—isn’t always quick or easy, but it is possible. It doesn’t require a big group or grand gestures. It starts with small steps, genuine conversations, and shared experiences.

If you’ve recently moved, or you're going through a time of change and looking to rebuild connection, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to health coaching feeling isolated or overwhelmed—craving community, balance, and a sense of belonging.

As a health coach, I help individuals reconnect with themselves and others—whether that means finding time for movement, creating a life that feels good from the inside out, or learning how to reach out and build supportive relationships. If this is something that speaks to you, I’d love to chat.

Curious to know more? You can book a free consult here or visit www.elvahealthcoach.com to explore more.