Making New Friends Online Tips for Building Real Connections

Loneliness is something almost all of us face at one time or another. Whether you’re craving someone to vent to after a tough day or just wish you had a friend to join you for a spontaneous movie night, the desire for deeper connection is universal. The good news? Building meaningful friendships online is easier and more accepted than ever before.

In fact, the U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness a public health epidemic in 2023, with data showing that one in two American adults reports experiencing it. But while digital spaces may have once seemed like places solely for dating or networking, they’re now full of opportunities to make platonic connections too. And with the right tools and guidance, these connections can be just as real, meaningful, and enduring as ones formed IRL.

Here’s how to meet new people online, what apps and platforms to try, how to stay safe, and how to make your virtual friendships last with insights from licensed relationship experts and psychologists.

Start with your friendship goals

Not every online friend has to become a best friend for life. Maybe you’re just looking for someone to chat with about your favorite books, or perhaps you’re searching for a workout buddy or a fellow new mom to swap advice with. Defining your intention helps you pick the right platform and make more authentic connections.

Here are a few vetted apps and websites for meeting new people online:

• Meetup.com: Find or create local groups around shared interests like hiking, painting, or wine tasting.

• Nextdoor: Connect with neighbors to feel more rooted in your local community.

• Peanut: Tailored for moms looking to build support networks through pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting.

• WINK: Swipe-style app that offers both friendship and dating filters, plus interest-based profile matching.

• LMK: Focused on conversation via voice chat, LMK makes it easy to break the ice and talk in real time.

• VINA: Created by women, for women ideal if you're seeking female friendships in your area or worldwide.

• ATLETO: Perfect for athletes or anyone looking to bond through sport and fitness.

Is it actually healthy to have online-only friendships?

Yes, says Cheryl Groskopf, LMFT, LPCC. “Online friends can be healthy as long as the connection is real and supportive,” she says. That means the person uplifts you, listens to you, and adds something positive to your life.

According to Dr. Tirrell De Gannes, clinical psychologist at Thriving Center of Psychology, these friendships can also serve as a stepping stone to more meaningful social growth. “It’s a great training ground,” he says. “You learn how to open up, navigate conversations, and connect in ways that can carry over into in-person relationships.”

Still, experts agree that virtual friendships shouldn't fully replace real-life interaction. “Physical cues, touch, and body language are all critical parts of human connection,” Dr. De Gannes adds. So while making friends online is a great start, moving toward in-person connection (when possible) can deepen the bond.

Tips for breaking the ice without the awkwardness

For anyone who identifies as shy, introverted, or socially anxious, approaching new people can be intimidating. That’s why joining groups with shared interests is such a helpful first step. “When you’re talking about something you love, the conversation just naturally flows easier,” says Groskopf.

She also suggests engaging with groups that are specifically designed for people navigating social anxiety. “Everyone’s in the same boat, so the pressure to be perfect goes away.”

Another expert tip? Break free from limiting beliefs about yourself. “Many people tell themselves they’re socially awkward or not interesting,” says Dr. De Gannes. “Put yourself in a position to prove yourself wrong. A small risk like joining a new group could open the door to a whole new social chapter.”

Online friendship safety

Before jumping into any online friendship, it’s crucial to understand how to protect yourself and your information. Here are expert-approved safety tips:

1. Don’t share your personal contact details right away.
Avoid sharing your full name, address, phone number, or workplace. Stick to the app’s internal messaging system or voice call features.

2. Never give out financial information.
Even if a connection seems trustworthy, never share payment app details or financial accounts. Scammers can be surprisingly convincing.

3. Stay alert for red flags.
Be mindful of inconsistencies in someone’s story, reluctance to video chat, or pressure to meet privately or send personal info.

When you’re ready to meet in person

If your online friendship begins to blossom and you’re both interested in meeting up IRL, here’s how to do it safely:

• Video chat first: This can help verify someone’s identity and vibe. “You can even ask them to show their surroundings if you’re unsure,” says Dr. Ozan Toy, MD, MPH.

• Do your homework: Search their social media or LinkedIn to confirm that their story checks out.

• Meet in a public place: Always choose a visible, populated setting for a first meetup. Let a trusted friend know where you're going and when you expect to return.

The bottom line

Meeting new people online might feel unfamiliar at first, but when done safely and intentionally, it can open the door to meaningful, lasting relationships. Whether you’re trying to build a broader community, find like-minded friends, or overcome social anxiety, online platforms can be a powerful first step. Start small, stay safe, and stay curious you never know where the next message might lead.

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