Making new friends as an adult has become increasingly difficult in today’s fast-paced, digital-driven world. While childhood and college often provide built-in opportunities for connection, adulthood demands a more proactive approach. Whether you’ve moved to a new city, work remotely, or simply want to expand your social circle, friend-making apps offer a solution.
These platforms are designed not for dating but for building genuine, platonic relationships based on shared interests and goals. From hyperlocal community apps to global chat platforms, here are the best apps to make friends and help you meet new people and form lasting friendships.
Bumble BFF – Swipe Right on Friendship
Bumble BFF is a branch of the popular Bumble dating app, but it’s exclusively designed for those seeking platonic relationships. Users create a profile just like they would for dating, but instead of romantic connections, they’re matched with people looking for friendship. The swipe-based interface makes it easy to explore potential new friends in your area. Bumble BFF shines for those who want to meet someone nearby to grab coffee, attend events, or explore new hobbies together.
The best apps to make friends algorithm helps pair users based on shared interests and lifestyle preferences, creating a personalised experience that feels natural. Bumble also emphasises safety and user verification, making it one of the most trusted platforms in the social connection space.
Friender – Where Shared Interests Lead to Friendships
Friender takes a unique approach by focusing entirely on mutual hobbies. Upon signing up, users select from a wide range of interests such as hiking, photography, writing, cooking, or sports. The app then matches users based on their shared passions, making it easier to start conversations and build connections. Friender encourages activity-based meetups and interactions, making the best apps to make friends rooted in everyday activities rather than just casual chatting. The design is simple, and the environment feels welcoming, especially for users who might be shy or hesitant to approach others in traditional social settings.
Hey! VINA – Empowering Women to Connect
Hey! VINA is often referred to as “Tinder for girlfriends,” but it’s entirely platonic and built by women for women. The app is tailored specifically for women looking to form friendships with other women, whether for emotional support, shared experiences, or just someone to explore the city with. What sets Hey! VINA apart is its built-in personality quizzes and blog-style content that helps users identify compatible matches beyond surface-level preferences. The best apps to make friends allow users to engage in discussions and events. Hey! VINA is ideal for women who want to find a safe, friendly space to build strong, meaningful relationships.
Meetup – Turn Shared Interests Into Social Gatherings
Meetup isn’t just for professional networking or tech seminars — it’s also one of the most effective platforms for making new friends based on shared interests. Unlike traditional friend-finding apps, Meetup encourages real-world connections by organising group events around activities such as hiking, language learning, board games, and volunteering. Users can search for events by category or location and RSVP directly within the app. By using the best apps to make friends, you can start your group and attract like-minded individuals. Meetup is especially effective for those who prefer in-person interaction over virtual messaging and are looking to build a sense of community within their local area.
Nextdoor – Building Friendships One Neighborhood at a Time
Nextdoor is a hyperlocal social app that connects you with your actual neighbors. While it’s primarily known for community updates, safety alerts, and local recommendations, it has grown into a platform where friendships are formed through mutual support and neighborhood engagement. From organising block parties to finding dog-walking buddies, Nextdoor is excellent for people who want to connect with others close to home. Its emphasis on location-based interaction encourages real-life meetings and long-term connections, often leading to genuine friendships rooted in daily life. It’s a practical choice for those who value familiarity and want to invest in their immediate community.
Peanut – Friendships for Mothers and Expecting Women
Peanut is a friendship app explicitly created for women navigating pregnancy, motherhood, and all stages in between. It allows users to connect with others who are going through similar life experiences, making it easier to share advice, vent frustrations, and build a support system. Peanut uses a swipe feature to help match users and also offers group discussions, community polls, and video chat options. The best apps to make friends, even women who are trying to conceive and looking for guidance. By narrowing its focus to a specific audience, Peanut fosters deeper connections and helps users find friendship in shared challenges and joys.
Yubo – Make Friends Through Live Streaming
Yubo is a newer social app aimed at teens and young adults who want to meet new people through live video chats and interest-based streams. Unlike many other apps that rely on text-based messaging, Yubo leans into real-time interaction with features like live streaming, group video rooms, and friend suggestions. It encourages users to verify their profiles for safety and filters matches based on age and region. Yubo is particularly appealing to users who enjoy interactive experiences and want to engage with others in a more dynamic, face-to-face format. While it may not suit those looking for deep conversations right away, it’s perfect for casual, fun interactions that can evolve into real friendships.
Skout – Global and Local Connections
Skout offers a more traditional social network experience with options to meet people both locally and globally. Users can set their preferences, chat in real time, and send virtual gifts to break the ice. The best apps to make friends have been around for over a decade, giving it a robust platform and a large user base. Skout’s strength lies in its flexibility—it’s equally useful for finding friends nearby or expanding your social circle internationally. Whether you’re new in town or just curious to meet people from different cultures, Skout is a solid option with a familiar social media feel.
Atleto – Fitness-Based Friendships for Active Lifestyles
Atleto is a niche app aimed at athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want to find sports buddies and workout partners. Whether you’re into running, tennis, yoga, or team sports, Atleto lets you match with people who share your athletic interests. The app supports group creation, event planning, and activity tracking, making it ideal for organising regular fitness meetups. Atleto helps turn physical activity into a social experience, which can make sticking to fitness goals more enjoyable and sustainable. It’s especially appealing for people who prefer bonding through movement and shared health goals rather than small talk.
Choosing the Right Friendship App for You
Finding the best friendship app depends largely on your personality, lifestyle, and the kind of social interaction you’re looking for. If you enjoy swiping and matching, Bumble BFF or Friender might be perfect. For real-world meetups and events, Meetup or Nextdoor are ideal. Women looking for a safe and supportive environment can turn to Hey! VINA or Peanut, while those wanting casual and dynamic engagement might enjoy Yubo or Skout. Fitness lovers will find a natural home in Atleto. Ultimately, it’s about choosing the best apps to make friends with your social goals. Try a few, see what clicks, and take that first step toward expanding your social world from your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which App Is Best For Local Friendships?
Nextdoor and Meetup are great for forming local friendships through events and community interaction.
Is There A Safe App For Women To Make Friends?
Hey! VINA and Peanut are excellent women-only platforms built for safe, supportive female friendships.
Are These Apps Free To Use?
Most apps offer free versions with optional premium features for enhanced functionality and reach.
Conclusion
Trying to delve into the best apps to make friends doesn’t have to be awkward or difficult—these apps bring social connections right to your fingertips. Whether you’re after deep conversations, activity-based bonds, or casual chats, there’s a platform out there for you. Explore, swipe, stream, or join a group—whatever suits your vibe. With just a tap, your subsequent meaningful friendship could be one message away.
