The best apps for making friends in another city: the ultimate guide

Expanding your social circle and meeting new friends is easier than ever thanks to the Internet and a wide range of mobile applications designed specifically to connect people in any city.If you've ever felt lonely in a new city, wanted to discover like-minded people for activities, or just want to experience new cultures, this article is for you. Here we offer a complete and up-to-date guide with all the best apps to make friends in another city, as well as practical advice and answers to frequently asked questions about how to get the most out of them.

We are, by nature, social beings. The search for new relationships that bring us different experiences, enriching conversations or simply good times is a fundamental driving force in our daily lives.If we used to rely on chance, work, university, or text messages to engage in late-night conversations, technology has opened up a whole range of possibilities: Now you can find friends anywhere in the world without leaving home, in a more personalized, secure way, focused on your interests..

Beyond dating apps, there is a universe of Apps focused on friendship, leisure, social groups, and hobby affinityMany of them leverage sophisticated algorithms to suggest like-minded groups and people, prioritize privacy, even hiding your profile, and place a strong emphasis on the safety and well-being of their communities, making taking the first step toward a new friendship easier and more enjoyable.

In this guide, you'll see that there are apps geared toward both individual encounters and group activities, themed get-togethers, anonymous chats, and local and international communities. We not only offer a list of the best apps for making friends in another city, but also a complete explanation of their advantages, disadvantages, unique features, and practical recommendations to get the most out of them..

Why use apps to make friends?

The applications to meet people have radically changed the way we socialize and expand our circles. Why are these tools so successful?

• Accessibility and flexibility: You can search for friends from anywhere, at any time, without depending on your immediate surroundings (class, work, gym, etc.).
• Personalization.: Algorithms that filter interests, hobbies, age, and location, showing you profiles that are truly compatible with your affinities.
• Security and controlMany apps include verification systems, the ability to report or block, and privacy options like anonymous chats or control over who sees your profile.
• Variety of connections: There are apps for friendship, group activities, language exchange, in-person events, thematic communities, etc.
• They help overcome shyness or social barriersIf you're struggling to break the ice, many apps help with guided chats, themed questions, and suggested activities.

There are no more excuses for not expanding your circle of friends, wherever you live.They'll even be useful if you're traveling to another city for work, school, vacation, or just want to practice a language with native speakers.

Main difficulties in making friends as an adult and how to overcome them with apps

Adulthood is often associated with busy schedules, moving to new cities, working remotely, and a less spontaneous lifestyle. It is common to feel that, as the years go by and responsibilities grow, it becomes difficult to find new friends or relationships outside of the work or family environment..

Apps specialized in friendship break the classic barriersYou can connect with like-minded people even if you're working from home, recently moved, or your usual circle no longer fits your current interests. Many apps also include in-person activities (such as hiking groups, workshops, parties, sports, etc.), transforming online conversations into new, real-life experiences.

1. They break social inertia: The algorithm suggests like-minded people and groups without having to wait for chance or force awkward situations.
2. Reducing initial embarrassment: Anonymous chat, photo-less profiles, trivia games, and the option to meet people in groups make the process less intimidating.
3. They remove the romantic filterMany apps focus exclusively on friendship and affinity, so you can feel more comfortable seeking companionship without misunderstandings.
4. They boost your best versionSharing hobbies, participating in activities, or discovering new interests with others helps you break out of your routine and grow personally.

The best apps for making friends in another city

Below you have the most detailed and comparative compilation of the Essential apps for meeting new people, creating groups, chatting, participating in events, and expanding your social circle wherever you are.Each app has its own unique features, so we recommend analyzing which one best suits your goals and interests.

UNBLND: Anonymous friendship based on real interests

UNBLND is a different social network oriented to create real friendship connections, putting personality and common interests before imageHere, your profile picture remains hidden, which helps build affinity over physical appearance or likes.

How Does It Work? UNBLND uses artificial intelligence and an advanced algorithm to suggest groups and people who share your interests and hobbies. You don't manually choose groups or search for specific users.: The system automatically suggests the best options based on your interests, and then creates group chats to organically break the ice.

• Privacy is one of its hallmarks: you can only "unmask" your profile and show your photo once you've established a certain connection and voluntarily decided to do so.
• Available on both Android and iOS.
• Ideal for breaking down prejudices, creating authentic bonds and avoiding superficialities in the initial stage.

UNBLND is perfect for those looking for genuine friendships, sharing activities, organizing get-togethers, or simply participating in enriching conversations where compatibility is key.

MeetMe: Chat and make friends near and far

MeetMe is one of the pioneering applications in the sector, very complete and oriented towards connection between all kinds of local people and the rest of the worldYou can search for users near you, chat via text, make video calls, participate in group rooms, or even follow live streams.

• Messaging is always free and you can use interest-based search.
• It includes a timeline or wall where you can share posts, photos, and updates just like on a traditional social network.
• Live Streaming Features: Create your own show, follow others, interact and participate in shows or online battles.
• Community of millions of active users worldwide.
• App available for Android and iOS.

Ideal for meeting people in your city, but also for making international friends, practicing languages, or simply having a good time online with a wide variety of people.

Meetup: Events and groups for all kinds of plans

Meetup has become the reference app to discover and participate in in-person or virtual group activitiesYou can find events of all kinds (sports, culture, leisure, networking, hiking, dinners, games, volunteering, workshops, etc.), create your own group and organize your own plans, or simply join existing groups that share your interests.

• The group approach helps you meet several people at once and break down shyness.
• The filter system helps you find events by location, topic, age, or language.
• Widely used by expats, travelers, new residents, or people looking for local contacts.
• Possibility of creating your own group and thus fostering a community from scratch with your ideas or hobbies.
• Built-in private chat so you can talk to attendees or members before you even arrive at the event.
• Dozens of new users join around the world every minute.

It's perfect if you like exploring the city, learning new things, practicing languages, finding partners for specific activities, or simply socializing in a less forced environment than a one-on-one date.

Skout: Meet people like on a global social network

SKOUT is a global social network, very similar in functionality to the classic Facebook, designed to create friendships anywhere in the world. It allows you to freely add contacts, participate in live events, chat, share photos, learn about different cultures, and broaden your horizons with people from different countries and backgrounds.

• Its interface is very reminiscent of classic social networks, making it very intuitive.
• It offers the possibility of creating and participating in live broadcasts.
• It doesn't focus exclusively on geolocation, so it's ideal if you want to make friends abroad, practice languages, or be part of international communities.

Skout is especially recommended if you like the traditional "add friends" model and are looking for a less romantic match-focused experience.

Bumble For Friends (formerly Bumble BFF): Friendship, networking, and professional support

Bumble is one of the most versatile apps on the market. It offers three main modes: the classic "dating", "BFF" to make friends, and "Bizz" to expand your professional network or find mentors.It is especially popular for its emphasis on security and empowerment, as well as its sleek, modern interface.

• Bumble For Friends (BFF): Specific for meeting new friends (both in your city and for those who have just moved or are looking to expand their social network).
• Intuitive interface and advanced filter possibilities (interests, age, location, hobbies, pets…)
• Includes user verification, secure chat, blocking, and reporting features.
• In dating mode, women make the first move, which has made Bumble a benchmark for equal and respectful environments.

Bumble For Friends has even launched a separate app dedicated exclusively to friendship (Bumble For Friends), with its own community and specific tools to strengthen security, profile authenticity, and user well-being.

Fever: Discover and book unique plans in your city

Fever is ideal if what you are looking for is Live local experiences, discover events, leisure activities, culture, gastronomy, music or sports and take the opportunity to meet people with your same interests.Its algorithm personalizes recommendations, and you can purchase or reserve tickets to attend alone or with new contacts.

• Personalized experience recommendations based on your preferences and location.
• Search by topic (leisure, music, cinema, gastronomy, sports, theater, well-being, etc.).
• 24/7 support via chat, phone, or email.
• Create your own events to invite your friends or open them to other users.
• Perfect for those who want to make the most of what their city has to offer and meet people in recreational or cultural settings.

PalTalk: Live chat rooms and international conversations

PalTalk brings back the essence of classic chats. You can enter themed rooms, participate in discussions, make calls or video calls, or simply chat privately with people from all over the world. It's ideal if you're looking for a more personal experience. Meet people in the style of the legendary forums or chats of years ago, but with all the current technological advantages.

• Ability to chat without limitations from both mobile and computer.
• Integration of calls and video calls.
• Popular with those looking to practice languages, share hobbies, or simply enjoy a relaxed and anonymous environment.

WePlan: Organize and enjoy the best group plans

WePlan stands out for being the reference app for Organize group activities and social gatherings, whether with old friends or new peopleYou can create, manage, coordinate, and share events—from movie outings to trips or getaways—all with easy control of schedules, locations, and attendees.

• Allows you to create and manage events of any size and theme.
• You can easily search for like-minded people and join them in your plans.
• The app makes it easy to integrate new friends into your real-life environment.
• Available for Android and iOS.

WePlan is perfect if you're looking for a comprehensive solution for meeting people and making in-person encounters convenient and memorable.

Wizz: Connect and chat in secure environments

Wizz has positioned itself as a very popular option, especially among young people and people looking for Safe, moderated communities with strict controls on inappropriate contentYou can join groups, chat based on interests, and meet friends before meeting in person.

• Strong emphasis on user safety and security (automatically removes inappropriate material).
• Allows you to filter by hobbies and join thematic communities.
• Ideal for those seeking authentic friendships and control over their interactions.

Badoo: Much more than a dating app

Badoo, although it is known for its dating aspect, It is also one of the best apps to find friends if you expressly indicate it in your profile.With millions of active users, chat, video calls, and profile verification to ensure security, it's suitable whether you're looking for a partner or just want to expand your social network.

• Extensive search filters, a feed of interests, and the ability to indicate in your bio that you're looking for friends.
• Young community and great international presence.
• Recommended for those looking to experience different cultures and diverse people, and who are willing to develop lasting friendships.

Twoo: Simple connections globally

Twoo combines simplicity and global reach. Allows you to chat, share photos, video calls and search for people near you or in any countryIts algorithm stands out for offering matches based on interests and location.

• Easy to use and without technical complications.
• Application available in numerous languages ​​and countries.
• Perfect for those who want to make international friends or practice languages.

Clubhouse: Audio Rooms and Social Networking

Clubhouse is the Trendy app to participate in live audio rooms, share opinions, debate, or learn about topics that interest you., all in real time and without having to show your image. If you want to connect through your voice and discover new perspectives, it can be very useful for socializing and making friends in an open environment.

• Social network based 100% on voice and spontaneous conversation.
• Public or private rooms on any topic.
• Possibility of creating your own rooms and attracting people with the same interests as you.

Hoop: Young Friendships Connected on Snapchat

Hoop has become one of the most popular apps for teens and young adults, as You need to have Snapchat installed to create your profile.Its goal is to emphasize friendship and shared interests, with options to easily connect with other users in your age range.

• Entertaining and dynamic interface.
• Very well implemented age filter and parental control.
• Snapchat is a must to sign up and use all its features.

TalkFi: Penpals, language exchange, and international friendships

TalkFi is the perfect app for Those who want to practice languages, learn about other cultures, and make friends by letter or chat around the worldYou can search for pen pals, participate in themed rooms, and share photos, videos, and messages based on your interests (hiking, anime, entrepreneurship, etc.).

• Ideal for expanding your international network.
• Anonymous chat option and privacy control.
• Widely used by both teenagers and adults looking to learn languages ​​and discover the world from their mobile phones.

Make Friends Meet People App: The social club on your mobile

This comes from Spain application designed as a virtual social club for adults. It integrates tools to explore profiles, send messages, participate in group activities, or simply chat casually. The goal is to create authentic connections in a safe, moderated space.

• Intuitive and simple interface.
• Focus on hobbies, activities, and local compatibility.
• Offers search by interests and geolocation.

Grindr: A benchmark in the LGBTQ+ community

Grindr stands out as the mobile social network for gay, bi, trans, and queer men, although it also allows for platonic friendships and meeting people within the community. It uses geolocation to show you nearby profiles and facilitates quick contact. Its approach is direct and practical.

• Chat, filter by preferences and safe meetings.
• Anonymous profiles if you prefer.
• Perfect for both friendship and discovering inclusive spaces.

How to choose the best friend-making app based on your interests and location

The range of apps for meeting people is enormous, which can make the choice overwhelming. These are the key factors to consider:

• Define your goal: Do you want to participate in in-person group events, meet people for specific activities, make personal connections, or practice languages?
• Interface and usability: Prioritize simple, intuitive apps that allow you to filter by interests, age, and location.
• Security and privacyChoose platforms with profile verification, blocking and reporting options, and strong controls over the personal information you share.
• Community and activityApps with more active users tend to guarantee more suggestions and better icebreaker dynamics.
• Extra features: Consider options such as voice or video chat, event planning, the ability to create your own groups, etc.

Try out several apps and don't be afraid to uninstall or switch if you don't find a good fit. Combining two or three apps often increases your chances of finding compatible people.

Practical tips for building authentic friendships using apps

In addition to the choice of platform, Attitude and active participation make the difference when it comes to moving from the screen to the real world and creating relationships that last.:

• Complete your profile honestlyThe clearer you are about your interests, hobbies, and what you're looking for, the easier it will be to connect with like-minded people.
• Participate in activities, groups and chatsDon't limit yourself to one-on-one chats; dare to join events, workshops, debates, or group proposals.
• Keep an open mind: Give yourself the opportunity to experience different perspectives, even if they don't seem exactly your style at first.
• Be respectful and cordialEmpathy, humor, and courtesy open many more doors than demands or criticism.
• Don't limit your search to rigid expectations.Some of the best friendships arise from unexpected groups or activities.
• Prioritize safety: Use verification options, don't share private information right away, and always meet in public places the first few times.

Frequently asked questions about friend-making apps

• Are these apps useful if I just want to chat and not attend events? Absolutely. Many apps like PalTalk, TalkFi, Badoo, Wizz, etc., allow you to chat, send photos, videos, voice notes, and build relationships without leaving home.
• Are they safe? Most offer verification, content reporting, and data protection systems. Always check reviews and activate the recommended privacy options.
• Can I search for people by hobby or interest? Yes. Most apps allow you to filter by hobbies, thematic groups, sports, languages, culture, technology, etc.
• Are there specific apps for young people or adults? Some, like Hoop, are geared toward younger users and require parental controls or a Snapchat link. Others, like Meetup, WePlan, Bumble, and others, have communities for all ages.
• Do you pay to use them? All the apps mentioned have a free version. Some offer premium services (more filters, highlighting in searches, increased visibility), but they aren't essential.

The digital friendship revolution is at your fingertips: there's a perfect app for every purpose, age, and personality. There's no better time to break out of your bubble and create genuine connections. Start exploring new possibilities today, connect with like-minded people, and dare to share your passions and experiences beyond the screen. The world is full of interesting people waiting to meet you.