Making new friends outside of work or school can be challenging, especially in a post-pandemic world.

Even our so-called “social media” hasn’t solved this problem.

How is anyone supposed to meet new people and find friends?

Woman wearing Airpods smiles at phone

The apps below are well-rated, vetted by users, and most of them are free!

“It has introduced me to many new friends … which I can trust.”

Teens will match with teens, young adults with young adults, etc.

Nextdoor app open on phone

Thankfully, the process only requires a quick live selfie during account setup (viaYubo).

If you’re a little nervous or self-conscious about video chatting, no worries!

This neighborhood social app gives you all the tools you should probably connect with people in your zip code.

WeMoms app open on phone

Nextdoor is used by one third of U.S. households and 300,000 neighborhoods worldwide (viaNextdoor).

In other words, there’s no shortage of nearby people to interact with on this app.

… We learn about good restaurants, outdoor activities, and good vendors (viaApp Store).

Meetup app startup screen on phone

you’ve got the option to keep all of your special interests and communities in one place.

Like a library, it’s a “choose your own adventure” style experience.

Plus, the app’s Facebook-like newsfeed makes it easy to get accustomed.

Woman in orange sweater smiles at phone

Becoming a parent is a heck of a transition, and it can be pretty isolating at times.

The key message here: Community is really important for new parents.

No more WebMD-ing yourself!

Azar app open on phone

Meetup: Discover local events, groups, and communities

Have you heard ofMeetup?

you could search for in-person events, join interest groups, and even attend online classes through the app.

Because activities are interest-driven, even introverts can get behind them.

Person holds phone with low battery

One reviewer wrote: “It’s tough for me to socialize.

Even when I want to, it’s not easy to find what will work.

Each event shows the guest list, so you could see exactly how many people will be there.

Woman wearing workout clothes holds phone

The built-in private messenger and event postings also make it easy to communicate within your comfort zone.

Tarot clubs, yoga lessons, hiking groups, charity events, and art classes await.

No hate speech of any kind.

Man cheering while looking at phone

We reserve the right to delete posts for any reason.

A healthy, loving community is our top priority” (viaLex).

In terms of features, this app has quite a few ways you could customize your chatting experience.

Personalize your stream or conversation with changeable backgrounds, emoji reactions, and filters.

Say what’s been on your mind while you’ve got the option to!

You came here for the gains and the friendship, and this app delivers well.

No filters, no schedule just sharing the moment, whatever it is.

Patook: Find new besties with zero flirtation

Last, but not least,Patook!

So strictly in fact, that we have developed our own automatic method to detect when someone is flirting.

That’s the sound of no more unwanted photos, gross pickup attempts, or unexpected late-night messages.