Wondering how to meet people in Florida? Whether you’re trying to find new friends or someone to date, meeting people is rarely easy—especially in a new city or state. Luckily, Florida is one of the best states to move to, as much of the population is made up of new residents.
In fact, Florida ranks number two in the U.S. for the highest percentage of residents who originated from somewhere else. As of 2012, just 36% of Florida residents were born in the Sunshine State.
This means most Floridians have been the new kid in town at one point or another and are often more open to making new friends.
Read on to see some of our suggestions for good locations and activities to meet people in Florida.
How to Meet People in Florida
While it can be a struggle to meet new people no matter where you live, the good news is that people in Florida have it a little easier. The year-round warm weather means Floridians spend a lot of time outside. This naturally leads to more opportunities to meet people than in cities with colder climates (where the norm is to stay huddled inside).
Get into Yoga
Your first time in a new city might call for getting out of your comfort zone by trying a new activity, like yoga or pilates.
But even if you’re an experienced yogi, the beautiful Florida weather makes for some ideal outdoor yoga settings. Try a class at the beach or join a Yoga Meetup at the park. You’ll not only meet new people, but you’ll enjoy a wholesome workout at the same time.
Leverage Your Job
Don’t disregard your job as a resource. Some workplaces might not be the best for meeting people you want to become friends with, but there’s always a good chance that one or two of your associates can give some good recommendations for places to eat, hang out, and meet new people.
Join a Group
Miami and many other cities in Florida offer groups and clubs for like-minded individuals to gather. Whether you’re into bike riding, singing, or sports, you’re likely to find a group of people who share your interests.
Volunteer
One of the best ways to meet new, like-minded people is to volunteer. You’ll feel great making a difference in someone’s life, and you’ll get to meet new friends and acquaintances simultaneously.
For those in the Miami area, Hands on Miami—a clearinghouse for volunteering opportunities—is a great place to start.
Meeting People in Miami
“I’m moving to Miami. What can I do to meet people?” This question gets asked a lot, especially in recent years. In 2021, Miami saw a huge influx of new residents, landing it a top spot for the most popular city to move to in the United States.
Miami is one of the most beautiful and culturally vibrant cities in the world. And it offers no shortage of activities, but it can be intimidating to venture off on your own when you don’t have friends or know anyone in the area.
Participate in the Brickell Run Club
The Brickell Run Club meets in the neighborhood of Brickell in Miami every week and goes on a free run together. This group is made up of some 300 or so individuals who gather together to enjoy a 3-mile run.
Runners are generally a healthy, happy group of people, making them an ideal potential friend group. But even if you don’t meet anyone interesting, you’ll at least get a chance to work out in the sun.
Attend the Miami Book Fair
Miami hosts a yearly book fair that attracts people who love to read. If you’re a book lover, this will probably be a great place for you to meet fans of the written word.
The book fair features book readings, community events, food, and even art.
Go to the Broken Shaker
Miami is home to a wide variety of popular bars and restaurants, and the Broken Shaker is one of them. Find it in Freehand, a Miami Beach hostel.
We suggest going over the weekend, as you’re more likely to find the bar full of new faces. Like most hostels, Broken Shaker draws a crowd of people from out of town, so it’s the perfect place for someone who’s new to the area to meet others who are also new.
Relocate Somewhere New with Moving Squad
Moving Squad has been in the business of helping people move to new cities for years. You can trust we know a thing or two about how to make new friends and how to navigate a successful move.
Contact us today for a free quote!
