Moving to a new city without any familiar faces can be intimidating. However, there are great people in all corners of the earth, and you can find them if you know where to look. As you build bonds with friends and gain comfort in your community, your new neighborhood will begin to feel like home.

6 Ways to Make Your New Neighborhood Feel Like Home

Try these six tips for meeting new people and feeling more comfortable in your new area.

1. Start before you move

In this digital age, forging connections has never been easier. Reach out to your social media friends to identify anyone already situated in the area. Ask to meet up for coffee and learn more about your city, including the best places to connect with others. Your friend may even be willing to introduce you to some people.

Online apps like Meetup and Nextdoor link you with nearby residents who share the same interests. Similarly, local Facebook groups get you acquainted with other locals before you relocate.

2. Meet the neighbors

Television and movies would have you believe that your neighbor will bring you baked goods upon your arrival, but that’s not always the case. Take matters into your own hands and reach out to your next-door neighbors either in person or through a letter. Bringing a treat with you may make your visit even sweeter.

3. Throw a housewarming party

While your home may not be entirely in order, you can still host a small get-together with the people in your community. Keep it casual and ask your guests to bring chairs, glasses or snacks. This gesture will be an appreciated bonding event for everyone in the neighborhood and hopefully inspires lasting friendships.

4. Spend more time outside

You won’t encounter new people from the confines of your home. Put yourself in the action by taking your pup for a walk, doing yard work or sitting on the porch during busy times of the day. You’ll get a feel for the everyday routine around you while familiarizing yourself with your neighbors.

Help the kids form friendships by visiting local parks – you might even find other parents in the area.

5. Explore local shops and restaurants

No one knows a town better than the staff and owners of local businesses. Adventure into your new surroundings and discover the backbone of your city’s culture. Staff can point you in the right direction of popular areas and events in town.

6. Get involved in your community

What better way to meet like-minded people than to pursue common interests? Typically, libraries and local coffee shops will have a bulletin board with information regarding upcoming events. Join a club or group to keep you engaged during your downtime and connect with others. Participating in your child’s school or volunteering welcomes you to a diverse group of people around your new city.

Making a new town feel like home is more than cozy pillows and throws; it’s about building a community. Need help finding the hot spots in Bend, Oregon? Bend Relocation services knows the best places to eat, play and work, so we can point you in the right direction when getting acclimated to your new environment. Regardless of how you choose to do so, get out and start finding your tribe.