Your late 20s can be an exciting, yet confusing stage of life. Between career changes, renting/buying a house, and evolving priorities, it’s easy to feel like your social circle has shrunk. I certainly have felt this over the years, and I know you’re far from alone. I had this conversation with a friend not too long ago and we both agreed that during a digital era, it’s really difficult to meet new people and make new friends.

The truth is, building adult friendships takes a little more intention than it did in university, but it is possible.

Understand Why Making Friends in Your 20s Can Feel Hard

If you’ve ever thought, “Why is it so hard to make friends in my 20s?” it’s not just you. Here’s why many people struggle during this stage:

• Everyone’s on a different path: Careers, relationships, and cities pull people in new directions. It’s also okay to accept this; everyone is different.
• Less built-in community: During school/university, you’re kind of forced into making friendships as everyone is in the same boat however, in your later 20s, this isn’t the case for everyone.
• Busy schedules: Work, side hustles, and personal goals take priority.

Understanding these challenges helps you approach making new friends in your 20s with more patience.

Define the Kind of Friends You Want to Attract

In your late 20s, quality beats quantity, and this is certainly a philosophy I’ve adopted. It’s also okay to only have a handful of friends rather than

Ask yourself: Do I want friends who are into adventure, deep talkers, or career-minded? What kind of energy and values do I want to surround myself with?

Being clear about the type of friendship you’re seeking helps you recognise compatible people and focus your efforts.

Put Yourself Where Like-Minded People Are

The best way to meet new people in your late 20s is by doing things you genuinely enjoy.
Here are a few proven options:

• Take a class or join a group: Yoga, football, language learning, hiking. Shared interests spark natural conversations and you’ll have a mutual hobby in common.
• Volunteer or join local communities: Giving back connects you with people who share the same values as you. You’ll also meet people of all ages, meaning you’ll build more meaningful friendships. Find local community volunteering here.
• Attend events or networking nights: Especially if you’ve moved to a new city. This can be a great way to spend evenings/weekends.
• Co-working spaces & clubs: Perfect for freelancers and remote workers craving connection. I appreciate that sometimes you might work in a co-working space where people keep themselves to themselves. However, many of these places host events and socials, which is a good way to meet people.

When you show up consistently, you’ll start seeing familiar faces and friendships will form more naturally.

Learn the Art of “Friendship Flirting”

Building adult friendships in your 20s is a bit like dating, it takes small risks and genuine effort. It can also be really scary, I completely get it! But try the below:

• Start casual conversations – comment, ask, or compliment. Show a genuine interest in the person.
• Suggest low-pressure venues (coffee, brunch, or a walk). This makes it easier to talk rather than going for dinner or a cinema where there’s a bit of a distraction stopping you from fully getting into a conversation.
• Follow up – consistency is what transforms acquaintances into real friends.
• Be genuine – people can sense when you’re being yourself. I could not stress this more! The reason why some friendships don’t last is down to fakeness and the person not being their genuine self.

It might feel awkward at first, but remember: most people in their 20s are also craving connection, they just don’t say it.

Reconnect and Expand Through Your Current Circle

You might already know your next best friend, you just haven’t talked in a while. Here’s how to expand your circle in your 20s:

• Rekindle old friendships: Message someone you used to hang out with. You’ll have lots to catch up on!
• Say yes to social invites: Even if you feel tired or nervous, show up as connections often happen when you least expect them.
• Meet friends of friends: Ask people you trust to introduce you to like-minded individuals. Friendships often bloom through shared circles rather than total strangers.

Your 20s are a decade of change, careers, cities, identities but that also means they’re full of opportunity. When you approach relationships with openness, consistency, and self-awareness, you’ll attract the right people into your life.

So whether you’re in a new city, out of college, or simply craving more connection, take the first step. Making friends in your late 20s isn’t just possible; it’s one of the best investments you can make for your happiness and growth in later life.