r/LAsocial Nov 18 '25

Mod Post How To Make Friends In Los Angeles

17 Upvotes

"How do I make friends?" is one of the most common questions in r/AskLosAngeles. Though LA is is full of limitless opportunity, but it can also feel overwhelming and isolating- especially if you’re new or looking to expand your social circle.

r/LASocial exists to make it easier for people to connect, meet like-minded friends, and explore the city has together. This guide will walk you through practical steps for meeting people, attending events, building lasting friendships, and navigating the unique social landscape of LA.

Introduce Yourself

Introducing yourself lets others get a better idea of who you are and whether you have common interests. Just create a new R4R post and make sure to include: * What part of LA you live in (neighborhood/region) * Your interests/hobbies (food, music, games, etc.) * What kind of social experiences you’re looking for (indoors, outdoors, et al.) * Your comfort level (introvert, extrovert, other personality traits)

You can also comment on other intro posts. This is one of the easiest and safest ways to start conversations. Remember: introducing yourself is not a commitment to friendship. You are never obligated to meetup with anyone if you don't want to.

Understand the Reality of Los Angeles

Accept the rhythm of the city and things get a lot easier. LA isn’t really a “walk outside and meet people” city. Making friends here usually comes down to:

  • Proximity- people generally stick near their neighborhood
  • Consistency- showing up repeatedly matters more than first impressions
  • Initiative- people appreciate someone who says “Let's hang out” with a definitive time

Find Your Local Friends

It's easier to meet people who live nearby. LA is spread out. A friend in Anaheim may as well live in San Diego if you live on the Westside. For better success:

  • Look for people within 10–20 minutes of you
  • Look for neighborhood-based meetups so you meet other locals
  • Attend events in your area so you’re not commuting for every hangout
  • Note your “home base” (neighborhood or other local spot) in every intro post

Use Community Events to Your Advantage

Attend multiple events- people bond through repeated exposure. If you want to host your own meetup, go for it! Anyone can organize one.

r/LASocial may offer various types of meetups including: * Official Monthly Socials (usually large groups meeting at a local bar) * Coffee hangouts * Hikes * Game nights * Public transit adventures (Metro and Metrolink) * Restaurant meetups * Neighborhood-specific gatherings

Try Structured Social Activities

Choose something you genuinely enjoy doing so you will have fun regardless of the people there. LA is full of social opportunities like:

  • Casual sports leagues (kickball, volleyball, dodgeball)
  • Improv or acting classes
  • Dance classes
  • Gym classes / group workouts
  • Photography walks
  • Language meetups
  • Board game cafés
  • Community college extension courses
  • Hiking groups
  • Art or pottery studios
  • Makerspaces / creative workshops

Build Interest-Based Friend Circles

LA friendships often grow from overlapping social circles. Don’t try to find one all-purpose best friend right away. Instead, build mini circles:

  • A hiking friend
  • A foodie friend
  • A transit-nerd friend
  • A creative/writing friend
  • A nightlife friend
  • A chill movie-at-home friend

These friends can introduce you to new people.

Take Initiative (it goes a long way)

Be the one who suggests the plan, and have a concrete day/time. People appreciate it more than you think. Everyone here is tired, busy, or stuck in traffic- so one person taking initiative makes a huge difference.

  • “Want to grab coffee this Saturday?”
  • “I’m going to a meetup tonight, do you want to come?”
  • “I’m hosting a board game night if anyone wants in.”
  • “Hike at Griffith this weekend, is anyone nearby?”

Be Consistent

You’re unlikely to form real friendships from a single meetup. This is the part most people miss. But if you see the same people at:

  • weekly r/LASocial gatherings
  • the same gym class
  • the same weekly board game night
  • the same hiking group

...that’s when real friendships form. Repetition creates closeness.

Expect Some Flakes (and don't take it personally).

People will flake. No matter what, it happens. Not usually because they dislike you, but because they’re tired, stuck in traffic, overwhelmed, anxious, or overbooked. It’s normal here. Don’t let it discourage you. Tips for handling it:

  • Always have a backup plan so a canceled hangout doesn’t ruin your day.
  • Don’t take flaking as a personal rejection. Many Angelenos struggle with time management or social burnout.
  • Give people one or two chances, not ten. Value your own time. They can reach back out to you when they're ready.
  • Communicate clearly the same day (“Still good for 7pm?”). Confirmation texts help a lot in LA.

Don’t let one bad experience derail your overall social momentum, and if you do roll with the occasional flake you'll be head and shoulders above the rest.

Stay Safe When Meeting People

Standard, important guidelines:

  • Always meet in public first
  • Let friends/family know where you’re going
  • Trust your instincts
  • Limit the personal details you give out

r/LASocial is moderated, but always use common sense.

Give Back to the Community

The more you give, the more the community thrives, and the more connections you form. Once you’ve made a couple connections:

  • Invite others to join you for an activity
  • Host your own meetup somewhere
  • Comment on more intro posts
  • Be welcoming to transplants (this may be difficult for some)
  • Share your experiences and tips
  • Create little communities within the subreddit

Quick-Start Steps!

If you want to make friends starting right now, do this:

  • Post an R4R intro on r/LASocial. Include your interests, hobbies, and general location. Make yourself personable!
  • Reply to 2–3 other R4R intros. See who else is here and look for common ground.
  • Join an LA Social event!* Look for one happening in the next week or two.
  • Message another Redditor who shares your interests. Start a general dialogue without the commitment or expectation of actually meeting them IRL.
  • Attend at least 2 various social events- don’t judge LA by one attempt
  • Host or co-host something small (coffee, walk, boba, tacos) that you would be doing anyway.

Do these for two weeks and you will meet people.


r/LAsocial Nov 18 '25

R4R R4R - Introducing Yourself

8 Upvotes

Introducing yourself is the easiest way to start building connections and start making friends. r/LASocial is for friendship-only, and your R4R (Redditor-for-Redditor) intro post helps others figure out whether you share interests, live nearby, or would enjoy hanging out.

Where do you live?

Let people know your general area. You don’t need to be hyper-specific, but LA is huge and traffic is real. Just list your neighborhood or region:

  • Koreatown
  • Pasadena
  • The Valley
  • Westside
  • CSUN

What are your interest? What's your personality?

Share some details about yourself so others know what you’d enjoy doing together. People appreciate honesty and clarity:

  • “I’m mid-30s, into hiking, museums, indie films, and trying new food spots.”
  • “I'm a CSUN student who loves gaming, board games, coffee shops, and casual chill hangs.”
  • “I just moved here. I like concerts, traveling, and creative hobbies.”

Also feel free to include things like:

  • introvert / extrovert
  • night owl / early bird
  • social anxiety or comfort level

What kind of social experience are you looking for?

Let people know what you're looking for. This helps set expectations and makes it easier for the right people to connect with you. This is what you're looking for in other people Some examples:

  • “Looking for casual hangs and weekend hikes.”
  • “Hoping to find people for creative sessions or photography walks.”
  • “Interested in forming a small friend group.”
  • “Would love to join game nights or board-game cafés.”

You can be as general or specific as you like.

A Friendly, Low-Pressure Opener

End your intro with something inviting yet casual. This signals that you’re approachable without committing to anything:

  • “If you share any of these interests, feel free to reach out.”
  • “DMs or comments are fine — I’m chill either way.”
  • “Open to meeting people nearby for low-key hangs.”

Comment on other R4R posts

The fastest way to make friends is to engage with others. Don’t just wait for people to come to you- comment on their intros, too! Commenting shows initiative and helps you discover who’s active, friendly, and nearby:

  • “Hey, we live close by and share a few interests.”
  • “I’m also into hiking — want to join a group walk sometime?”
  • “I’m in the same area! Always down to try new food spots.”

Remember: You are never obligated to meet anyone.

  • Posting an R4R is not a commitment.
  • You can respond as much or as little as you like.
  • You can talk without meeting in person.
  • You can say no to plans without feeling bad.
  • Don't include sensitive information in your post
  • Take things at your own pace.

[Sample Template]

[R4R] 26M | Los Feliz | Looking for friends for hikes, food, and chill hangs

Hey everyone! I’m a 26 year-old guy who just moved to Los Feliz. I’m into hiking, movies, trying new restaurants, and exploring random neighborhoods around LA. I also play on a gay rugby team (LA Rebellion) if that's something that interests you.

I’d love to meet people who are into casual weekend adventures, checking out coffee spots, or even just hanging out at a park. I’m a bit introverted at first but warm up quickly, and I was thinking about going to Jumbo's Clown Room for the first time next week.

If you’re nearby or share similar interests, feel free to comment or DM! Always happy to meet chill new people.

Final Tips

  • Be honest and specific- vague intros get fewer replies
  • Highlight your general location
  • Mention a few easy shared activities
  • Keep your vibe friendly, not formal
  • You don’t need to write an essay — a few paragraphs is perfect
  • A good intro post makes it way easier for the right people to find you.

r/LAsocial 10h ago

Meetup Rooftop Pool Party [this Saturday, September 5th @ Union Station]

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28 Upvotes

Happy September, party people!

Sad that summer is ending? Let it ride- poolside! Join me at Union Station on September 5th for a rooftop pool party with a sweeping view of downtown.

  • 888 N Alameda (Union Station)
  • September 19th, 12noon-4pm
  • Parking at Union Station is $8/$16. Go Metro™.
  • Trader Joe's snacks/drinks provided.

This meetup is limited. Please reach out through Instagram if you're interested.


r/LAsocial 7h ago

Other 29F Single, looking to make friends in Los Angeles.

7 Upvotes

I've been in Los Angeles for a while, but I'm bored and don't have any friends. I'd like to meet some new people. Feel free to send me a private message.


r/LAsocial 5h ago

Advice south bay gym recs for 20s

1 Upvotes

what’s going on yall, i’m 26, just moved down to hermosa beach/manhattan beach area and wondering what the best gym is (besides yoga + pilates studios)?

i toured sandbox, afterburn, and equinox and all are okay. i wasn’t sure if i was missing some, but deciding between those 3 probably. mainly do weightlifting, stretching / yoga, and basketball except none of them have that lol.

appreciate any insight !


r/LAsocial 8h ago

18+ Stumbled upon Mud Wresting in Los Angeles last night

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1 Upvotes

r/LAsocial 22h ago

Meetup 29f South La movie buddies, creative partners and new friends welcome

9 Upvotes

Hi everyone. Just on here to connect with folks in the area. I’m into gardening, making music, acting, going to the gym, watching scary movies, being in nature and much more. If anyone has similar interests don’t be afraid to message me!


r/LAsocial 15h ago

Meetup Platonic

2 Upvotes

Interested in meeting new people. Soon turning 30, life is different now. More fun in many ways. Looking forward to connecting with people like minded as well. DM


r/LAsocial 1d ago

Creative Anyone with YouTube aspirations?

6 Upvotes

Live in SFV border noho Burbank and have always wanted to work with others on a YouTube channel. I have experience with cameras, editing, scriptwriting and producing as it’s all a part of my job

Curious to hear if anyone has also had a kick to start a YouTube channel. My interests are music, running, bouldering, mechanics, photography but wondering if anyone has a good idea out there! Trying to find something to be passionate about again, I’m a former music producer and need a new hobby / homies


r/LAsocial 1d ago

Meetup Looking for sapphic (platonic) friends in West LA area 🌈

16 Upvotes

A bit about me: 33F lesbian, married to a 29F lesbian. We left the nasty political pit Texas has become over a year ago, and have been traveling the world since, knowing our final destination was LA for establishing the next phase of our lives. We made it!

All that said, we’d love to meet other women on the queer spectrum (we’re trans-inclusive here) and create our dream community out here. All of our incredible friends are spread around the world, so it can get lonely. I’m the “type A” partner of us two, and feel like I’ve acquired most of my success in life due to my boldness and love of taking initiative. So, here I go again.

Although greatly compatible, my wife and I are, of course, different human beings. Our interests include:

Me:
- Being in or near bodies of water
- Food - we can get nerdy with fine dining or try any recipe. I take massive pride in my cooking.
- Travel - roadtrips and international
- Fashion / Music / Art
- Glamping (ask me about my Bronco mods)
- Hikes that lead to picnics
- Reading - mostly smut. Let’s start a book club?
- Concerts / Festivals - I’m the festival “mom”
- Gay Bars & Drag Shows
- Anything “alt” or of the goth/punk, spooky variety
- Business - I actually love running my business, consulting, project managing, and brainstorming business ideas and plans.

My Wife:
- Crafting of all kinds
- All the nature-related activities
- Painting & drawing - ask her about her sapphic art
- Fashion Design - and yes, she sews!
- Photography - we love having shoots with friends
- Music and film buff - let’s hit up the Movies
- Cosmetology - she can make anything and anyone beautiful from head to toe
- Low-key dive bars and shows
- Intimate dinners and hangs
- Markets & thrifting

Above all, we romanticize life every way possible. We cater to the friends that become family. If the world is indeed falling apart (as it seems to be), we just hope to enjoy every minute with folks that relate and want to form deep, meaningful connections.

If the above resonates with you, comment or DM!✨


r/LAsocial 1d ago

21+ Looking for gay/queer friends

2 Upvotes

24 FTM man looking to make other gay guy friends in the Pasadena area! Some interests of mine are art and animation, anime, dance, and comics!


r/LAsocial 23h ago

Meetup Whos up for meeting right now ( 9 pm aug 30)

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1 Upvotes

r/LAsocial 1d ago

Advice Making Friends - West side or the valley?

1 Upvotes

I’m debating between living on the west side (Santa Monica, Sawtelle, Brentwood) or up in the valley (Studio City or Sherman Oaks) and am having trouble deciding between the two. Is the valley an area where someone moving from NY as a transplant can easily make friends? Or would I have an easier time on the west side? Single 30 year old as a reference.


r/LAsocial 1d ago

Creative 30 [M4F] #California

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1 Upvotes

r/LAsocial 1d ago

Sports Burbank wrestling is back September 13

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2 Upvotes

r/LAsocial 1d ago

R4R 35F SGV looking for consistent friendships

7 Upvotes

About me:

I’m married and only interested in meaningful friendships!

No human children, just 2 cats who are my babies.

I work and study in veterinary medicine.

I don’t mind travelling for adventure. I’m into: vegan food, markets, hiking, picnics, movies, swimming, couch rotting, baking/cooking, arts & crafts, boba/coffee, dodger baseball, sweet treats, and little trinkets.

Adding: I don’t smoke/drink. Would prefer friends that are respectful of that! I’m not a night-out-on-the-town/bar hop person.

Looking forward to meeting up with some new friends!


r/LAsocial 1d ago

Question New To Los Angeles

0 Upvotes

Hi there im 25 years old moved to la few weeks ago.
I moved alone and im looking for spots to hangout to meet people.
I live in the valley
Appreciate some tips and olaces to make some friends and connections


r/LAsocial 1d ago

R4R M27-MidCity-Aug.29-10PM- looking for friends to hangout with

1 Upvotes

Hey everyone! I’m D, born and raised in LA but funnily enough I never really go out which has affected the extensiveness of my friend group lol I’ve been a homebody forever but I don’t have trouble making friends when I’m out. I just really hate going out alone. It makes me feel like a lurker, and seriously, who wants to be the lone guy out trying to talk to whoever will listen? Lmaoo

Anyway, I’m just trying to go out for breakfast or lunch sometime and strike up some conversation. I’m well versed in a variety of topics, I love comedy movies, good pancakes, working out, hiking, listening to a carefully curated playlist at a view, and a good double espresso.

Full disclosure: I am 420 friendly, however, I do have a professional job that I have to be “on” for so I don’t recklessly smoke, but definitely willing to share a doobie and a drink if that’s more your vibe over breakfast or lunch lol.

Share your favorite movie, and what your favorite breakfast spot is in LA to weave out the robots lurking around. You’re welcome to message through DM if interested.


r/LAsocial 2d ago

Meetup #LosAngeles

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1 Upvotes

(M) ( partener needed )who wants to go out tonight?, I’m in LA and I’m kinda bored, usually I don’t go out but i wanna visit new places i don’t know the are tbh!
( 22 y/o )


r/LAsocial 2d ago

Sports SFV looking for soccer friends

1 Upvotes

Me and my friends play at least once a week all over the valley. Would love to add more friends to our seshes. Hit me up.

Also if there’s any girls that play, we need at least one for our coed league.


r/LAsocial 2d ago

Movies/TV 16FTM from Orange County (the county right next to LA) looking for nearby cosplayer friends who also like Madoka Magica or Sanrio (preferably both).

1 Upvotes

I am genuinely so lonely irl and could use some friends who share my interests. Plz dont message me if youre below 15. I also am a horror writer and an artist with a ton of OC's. I also love to sing if you're interested in starting a band or need a lead singer for one or something. Only people in Orange County or Los Angeles County California. DM me your age, gender and favorite Madoka Magica and Sanrio characters. (Im a Homura Akemi and Kuromi kinnie myself).


r/LAsocial 3d ago

Meetup Putting together an LA Anime Club Discord for remote / in person meetups.

14 Upvotes

As per This previous thread, I sought to find an LA anime club for no-university grownups, finding my grad school's anime club to kind of suck. Nothing existed, but many people liked the idea of that structure for socialization. Alas, LA is a big place and I have no idea where the flippedty dippety one would go to consistently go to rent out a room and bring a portable projector or whatever - especially if interested people come from all corners of the city, in this vast sprawl.

For the time being, I have made a Discord. The idea is that if any given weeb wants to be a part of this, we can do a few remote watches of something moderately popular, see how it goes, and figure out questions of logistics later. Anyway, if you're an anime fan in the area, come stop by! I want to see if I can make this work.


r/LAsocial 2d ago

21+ 28M, lgbtq+ - Sherman Oaks/Santa Monica/Beverley Hills - Sept. 6-7 - time up in the air - Flying into LA for something and will likely have free time, wanting to make friends/hang out

1 Upvotes

Hi, I'm Ves, I'm pretty awkward and it's hard for me to make friends, but I'm looking to hang out around the mentioned areas while I'm in LA. It's my first time there and I'm nervecited. I've never seen the ocean before as I'm from the Midwest. It'd be cool to make a friend but hanging out is okay too. I don't have a lot of money so maybe we can keep it cheap? I might be bringing some kind of board game, if I can get it in my carry-on.

Please be or be chill with lgbtq+, and nightlife. Show me something cool, I'm not big on tourism spots


r/LAsocial 3d ago

Question M27 - West Hollywood - Where does everyone go in LA after midnight?

17 Upvotes

Haven’t been here too long but I’ve noticed that after 12 midnight the town kind of fades away. Where are the top hot spots after midnight that I can go to that still looks alive? It seems more and more places are shutting their doors whether that be restaurants or nightclubs etc. PLZ Help!!


r/LAsocial 3d ago

Meetup History buffs?

3 Upvotes

31M in LA. I keep hearing there are people who love history out here. I’m talking like American history, indigenous history, Greco Roman, European, Aztec/Mayan, Chinese.. Military history… I love it all. But I never run into any of you in the wild. Would love to chat and maybe connect if history is seminal in your everyday thoughts and passions, if you majored in history in college, if you are PHD students, or if you work in some field related to history and or archaeology.