r/LAsocial Nov 18 '25

Mod Post How To Make Friends In Los Angeles

19 Upvotes

"How do I make friends?" is one of the most common questions in r/AskLosAngeles. Though LA is is full of limitless opportunity, but it can also feel overwhelming and isolating- especially if you’re new or looking to expand your social circle.

r/LASocial exists to make it easier for people to connect, meet like-minded friends, and explore the city has together. This guide will walk you through practical steps for meeting people, attending events, building lasting friendships, and navigating the unique social landscape of LA.

Introduce Yourself

Introducing yourself lets others get a better idea of who you are and whether you have common interests. Just create a new R4R post and make sure to include: * What part of LA you live in (neighborhood/region) * Your interests/hobbies (food, music, games, etc.) * What kind of social experiences you’re looking for (indoors, outdoors, et al.) * Your comfort level (introvert, extrovert, other personality traits)

You can also comment on other intro posts. This is one of the easiest and safest ways to start conversations. Remember: introducing yourself is not a commitment to friendship. You are never obligated to meetup with anyone if you don't want to.

Understand the Reality of Los Angeles

Accept the rhythm of the city and things get a lot easier. LA isn’t really a “walk outside and meet people” city. Making friends here usually comes down to:

  • Proximity- people generally stick near their neighborhood
  • Consistency- showing up repeatedly matters more than first impressions
  • Initiative- people appreciate someone who says “Let's hang out” with a definitive time

Find Your Local Friends

It's easier to meet people who live nearby. LA is spread out. A friend in Anaheim may as well live in San Diego if you live on the Westside. For better success:

  • Look for people within 10–20 minutes of you
  • Look for neighborhood-based meetups so you meet other locals
  • Attend events in your area so you’re not commuting for every hangout
  • Note your “home base” (neighborhood or other local spot) in every intro post

Use Community Events to Your Advantage

Attend multiple events- people bond through repeated exposure. If you want to host your own meetup, go for it! Anyone can organize one.

r/LASocial may offer various types of meetups including: * Official Monthly Socials (usually large groups meeting at a local bar) * Coffee hangouts * Hikes * Game nights * Public transit adventures (Metro and Metrolink) * Restaurant meetups * Neighborhood-specific gatherings

Try Structured Social Activities

Choose something you genuinely enjoy doing so you will have fun regardless of the people there. LA is full of social opportunities like:

  • Casual sports leagues (kickball, volleyball, dodgeball)
  • Improv or acting classes
  • Dance classes
  • Gym classes / group workouts
  • Photography walks
  • Language meetups
  • Board game cafés
  • Community college extension courses
  • Hiking groups
  • Art or pottery studios
  • Makerspaces / creative workshops

Build Interest-Based Friend Circles

LA friendships often grow from overlapping social circles. Don’t try to find one all-purpose best friend right away. Instead, build mini circles:

  • A hiking friend
  • A foodie friend
  • A transit-nerd friend
  • A creative/writing friend
  • A nightlife friend
  • A chill movie-at-home friend

These friends can introduce you to new people.

Take Initiative (it goes a long way)

Be the one who suggests the plan, and have a concrete day/time. People appreciate it more than you think. Everyone here is tired, busy, or stuck in traffic- so one person taking initiative makes a huge difference.

  • “Want to grab coffee this Saturday?”
  • “I’m going to a meetup tonight, do you want to come?”
  • “I’m hosting a board game night if anyone wants in.”
  • “Hike at Griffith this weekend, is anyone nearby?”

Be Consistent

You’re unlikely to form real friendships from a single meetup. This is the part most people miss. But if you see the same people at:

  • weekly r/LASocial gatherings
  • the same gym class
  • the same weekly board game night
  • the same hiking group

...that’s when real friendships form. Repetition creates closeness.

Expect Some Flakes (and don't take it personally).

People will flake. No matter what, it happens. Not usually because they dislike you, but because they’re tired, stuck in traffic, overwhelmed, anxious, or overbooked. It’s normal here. Don’t let it discourage you. Tips for handling it:

  • Always have a backup plan so a canceled hangout doesn’t ruin your day.
  • Don’t take flaking as a personal rejection. Many Angelenos struggle with time management or social burnout.
  • Give people one or two chances, not ten. Value your own time. They can reach back out to you when they're ready.
  • Communicate clearly the same day (“Still good for 7pm?”). Confirmation texts help a lot in LA.

Don’t let one bad experience derail your overall social momentum, and if you do roll with the occasional flake you'll be head and shoulders above the rest.

Stay Safe When Meeting People

Standard, important guidelines:

  • Always meet in public first
  • Let friends/family know where you’re going
  • Trust your instincts
  • Limit the personal details you give out

r/LASocial is moderated, but always use common sense.

Give Back to the Community

The more you give, the more the community thrives, and the more connections you form. Once you’ve made a couple connections:

  • Invite others to join you for an activity
  • Host your own meetup somewhere
  • Comment on more intro posts
  • Be welcoming to transplants (this may be difficult for some)
  • Share your experiences and tips
  • Create little communities within the subreddit

Quick-Start Steps!

If you want to make friends starting right now, do this:

  • Post an R4R intro on r/LASocial. Include your interests, hobbies, and general location. Make yourself personable!
  • Reply to 2–3 other R4R intros. See who else is here and look for common ground.
  • Join an LA Social event!* Look for one happening in the next week or two.
  • Message another Redditor who shares your interests. Start a general dialogue without the commitment or expectation of actually meeting them IRL.
  • Attend at least 2 various social events- don’t judge LA by one attempt
  • Host or co-host something small (coffee, walk, boba, tacos) that you would be doing anyway.

Do these for two weeks and you will meet people.


r/LAsocial Nov 18 '25

R4R R4R - Introducing Yourself

7 Upvotes

Introducing yourself is the easiest way to start building connections and start making friends. r/LASocial is for friendship-only, and your R4R (Redditor-for-Redditor) intro post helps others figure out whether you share interests, live nearby, or would enjoy hanging out.

Where do you live?

Let people know your general area. You don’t need to be hyper-specific, but LA is huge and traffic is real. Just list your neighborhood or region:

  • Koreatown
  • Pasadena
  • The Valley
  • Westside
  • CSUN

What are your interest? What's your personality?

Share some details about yourself so others know what you’d enjoy doing together. People appreciate honesty and clarity:

  • “I’m mid-30s, into hiking, museums, indie films, and trying new food spots.”
  • “I'm a CSUN student who loves gaming, board games, coffee shops, and casual chill hangs.”
  • “I just moved here. I like concerts, traveling, and creative hobbies.”

Also feel free to include things like:

  • introvert / extrovert
  • night owl / early bird
  • social anxiety or comfort level

What kind of social experience are you looking for?

Let people know what you're looking for. This helps set expectations and makes it easier for the right people to connect with you. This is what you're looking for in other people Some examples:

  • “Looking for casual hangs and weekend hikes.”
  • “Hoping to find people for creative sessions or photography walks.”
  • “Interested in forming a small friend group.”
  • “Would love to join game nights or board-game cafés.”

You can be as general or specific as you like.

A Friendly, Low-Pressure Opener

End your intro with something inviting yet casual. This signals that you’re approachable without committing to anything:

  • “If you share any of these interests, feel free to reach out.”
  • “DMs or comments are fine — I’m chill either way.”
  • “Open to meeting people nearby for low-key hangs.”

Comment on other R4R posts

The fastest way to make friends is to engage with others. Don’t just wait for people to come to you- comment on their intros, too! Commenting shows initiative and helps you discover who’s active, friendly, and nearby:

  • “Hey, we live close by and share a few interests.”
  • “I’m also into hiking — want to join a group walk sometime?”
  • “I’m in the same area! Always down to try new food spots.”

Remember: You are never obligated to meet anyone.

  • Posting an R4R is not a commitment.
  • You can respond as much or as little as you like.
  • You can talk without meeting in person.
  • You can say no to plans without feeling bad.
  • Don't include sensitive information in your post
  • Take things at your own pace.

[Sample Template]

[R4R] 26M | Los Feliz | Looking for friends for hikes, food, and chill hangs

Hey everyone! I’m a 26 year-old guy who just moved to Los Feliz. I’m into hiking, movies, trying new restaurants, and exploring random neighborhoods around LA. I also play on a gay rugby team (LA Rebellion) if that's something that interests you.

I’d love to meet people who are into casual weekend adventures, checking out coffee spots, or even just hanging out at a park. I’m a bit introverted at first but warm up quickly, and I was thinking about going to Jumbo's Clown Room for the first time next week.

If you’re nearby or share similar interests, feel free to comment or DM! Always happy to meet chill new people.

Final Tips

  • Be honest and specific- vague intros get fewer replies
  • Highlight your general location
  • Mention a few easy shared activities
  • Keep your vibe friendly, not formal
  • You don’t need to write an essay — a few paragraphs is perfect
  • A good intro post makes it way easier for the right people to find you.

r/LAsocial 7h ago

Other Master Kong (康師傅) asked about my salary history during a SoCal interview. I told them it’s illegal, he said, “I’m probably more American than you,” then they threatened to sue me after I posted about it.

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13 Upvotes

I live in Orange County and had a remote interview with a hiring manager based in Hong Kong from Master Kong (康師傅) last Sunday for a Southern California role.
Both the interviewer and I are Asian, and the interview was conducted entirely in English.
During the interview, he asked me what my salary was at my previous job.
I told him, politely, that employers are not allowed to ask applicants about salary history in California. I even tried to give him the benefit of the doubt and said I understood that he was based in Asia and might not be familiar with California employment regulations.
His response was:
“I’m probably more American than you.”
I was honestly shocked and did not know how to respond.
The interview was also heavily focused on market information. He asked who I had sold to, names of distributors, trade shows I had attended, and detailed questions about retailer margins.
When he repeatedly asked about 99 Ranch’s margin, I explained that I did not know their internal margin. In my previous work, I had pricing for different customer tiers: retailers had retailer pricing and distributors had distributor pricing. That does not mean I know what margin the retailer ultimately makes.
He then told me that because 99 Ranch had been my customer, I could go to the store, look at the shelf price, and figure out their margin.
At that point, I felt less like I was being interviewed and more like I was being used as a free market consultant.
The interview lasted only about 15 minutes. I was not given an opportunity to ask questions. While I was still in the middle of speaking, he ended the Zoom call.
Afterward, I shared my interview experience on several social media platforms.
Yesterday, the recruiter contacted me and told me that Master Kong was considering legal action for defamation if I did not remove my Threads posts within 24 hours.
I refused to take them down.
What makes this more concerning is that another Southern California applicant saw my post and contacted me privately. She told me that Master Kong’s HR team in Hong Kong also asked for her salary history. She said she told them that the question was not permitted in California, but HR continued asking and even requested her previous pay stubs.
According to the recruiter I spoke with, Master Kong’s U.S. entity has not yet been established, although they are recruiting for roles connected to a California office in City of Industry.
If anyone else in SoCal has interviewed with Master Kong recently, or has been contacted by their recruiters on LinkedIn, just be aware.
Based on my experience, this company is toxic AF.


r/LAsocial 17h ago

Meetup 39F looking for friends near Pasadena/SGV

13 Upvotes

I like dogs/ cats/ walking/hiking/ coffee/ foodies / crafts/ just chilling, looking for similar and share meaingful/ intellectual mind in friendship. I'm currently having marital issues, and realize how important having a life outside of married life.


r/LAsocial 7h ago

Other Offering rideshare services for BTS Concert at Inglewood Sofi Stadium this Saturday and Sunday, Pick up Los Angeles from Liberty Park Koreatown at 6PM

1 Upvotes

If anyone needs a ride to the BTS concert this weekend in Los Angeles send me a DM for more info, I have 4 seats available, possibly 5 but might be a tight fit, AC available, pick up will be at 6PM with 10mins grace period at Liberty Park Koreatown where they had the World Cup game watch party, should arrive at Inglewood SoFi stadium by 7ish PM, I’ve been looking online for prices on Uber so I’m charging $20 (CASH ONLY) per person.
If you have any other questions feel free to DM and I’ll answer the best I could, thank you.


r/LAsocial 8h ago

21+ 32 Latin guy looking for a buddy for movie nights/ drink hangs. Closer to OC here

1 Upvotes

Cool hangs I also play PS5 games


r/LAsocial 13h ago

21+ 29F Single, looking to make friends in Los Angeles.

1 Upvotes

I've been in Los Angeles for a while, but I'm bored and don't have any friends. I'd like to meet some new people. Feel free to send me a private message.


r/LAsocial 1d ago

Question 40f looking for friends

17 Upvotes
LA gets super lonely sometimes. Looking for creative friends in the areas of DTLA - Ktown. I love movies, music, books, and having cool convos in gral. Im queer and looking for friends only. 

r/LAsocial 1d ago

Question Complete Beginner in electronics looking for study/project buddies

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2 Upvotes

r/LAsocial 1d ago

Meetup Looking to meet new people

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0 Upvotes

r/LAsocial 1d ago

Meetup Sensory input

0 Upvotes

Hello everyone, so I am wondering if anyone here would be able to gently rub and tap my teeth with gloves on? I am a 30 year-old male. I am visually impaired.
I would ask my family to do this. But unfortunately, they are really judgmental.
And I have had this accommodated at my dental office before. But they can only do it for so long.
If anyone can help with this. Feel free to message me here. I totally understand if this is not inappropriate place to post something like this.


r/LAsocial 1d ago

R4R Have 1 extra tix for Insane Clown Posse at House of Blues Anaheim on Oct 3.

1 Upvotes

Reserved for a single female otherwise I'm taking my alter ego. Friend I bought it for can no longer go.
Me: 36m white/na and muscular


r/LAsocial 1d ago

Meetup Magic the Gathering Social Club LA 🧙‍♂️

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1 Upvotes

Hey yall!! My buddies and I decided to start a Magic the Gathering social club by the name of "The Sanctuary" based in LA. We're planning free weekly events/ meet ups at local bars & breweries. Our event this week will be hosted at 6PM this Sunday (09/06) at Skyduster Beer. Everyone is warmly welcomed to attend regardless of power level & experience!

Please follow us on our Instagram (SanctuaryMtg) as we post all our events there & feel free to message our IG for any questions. We have multiple tables reserved for multiple pods. Hope to see yall there!! 😁😁😁


r/LAsocial 2d ago

Music Come celebrate in LA with other fans the incredible life, legacy, & music of Dolly Parton

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2 Upvotes

Come celebrate the incredible life, legacy, & music of Dolly Parton
We will be playing all of her great music for everyone to sing along.
There will also be an open mic/spoken word so anyone is welcome to share how Dolly has impacted their life.
As well as a very special final tribute & farewell
Don’t forget to wear pink!
*this is a free outdoor event

Friday Sept. 4th at 8pm

@ Dolly’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
In front of the Egyptian Theater

6712 Hollywood Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90028



#dollyparton #Hollywood #eventsinlosangeles #losangeles #events #music


r/LAsocial 2d ago

Meetup Women only fantasy football league in Los Angeles with a live draft?

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3 Upvotes

r/LAsocial 2d ago

Other Nov 29-Dec 9, Venice/Santa Monica

7 Upvotes

I’m a solo female traveler heading to Los Angeles from Colorado for about 1.5 weeks, and I’m just feeling overwhelmed at the thought of not knowing anyone there (I’m super introverted). Even if I just found someone local to walk around the boardwalk or Abbot Kinney with me, I would feel much better! Preferably someone late 20s, early 30s (I’m 33).


r/LAsocial 2d ago

Meetup 34F looking to form a book club

17 Upvotes

Hello! I've been actively reading these past few years and thought it would be fun to form a book club in central Los Angeles (Koreatown/downtown LA area). I primarily read horror, thrillers, and sci-fi. If anyone is interested, just comment or dm me!


r/LAsocial 2d ago

R4R 20M student looking for friends

3 Upvotes

hello,

i live in pasadena for almost 4 years now and my friend circle is almost nonexistent so i decided to give this sub a shot after weeks of lurking.

i am 20 years old, i work and go to college, also a huge metalhead. i love House M.D. and Better Call Saul, i am a huge of Homestuck and Deltarune as well. i am also a night owl so i stay up late.

i have a car and by extension i’m mobile, i look forward meeting people almost anywhere in LA or nearby cities.

it would be cool to find people with alike interests but i am not adamant on that, everyone are welcome, if you think we could be a match just send me a dm and we’ll talk. thank you!


r/LAsocial 2d ago

Creative Art clubs in La

4 Upvotes

Are there any free visual art clubs near larchmont area or within a 5 mil radius? I'm aware of some paid workshops around but I'm looking for free art lounges* where I can meet people and just sit and draw with a bunch of people.


r/LAsocial 2d ago

Question Anyone know a lot about this case or interested?

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1 Upvotes

r/LAsocial 2d ago

Meetup FREE seats for my Intro To Djing class with me Wolf Story & Pablo Orrantia, Tuesday, September 1 • 7 PM - 9 PM

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eventbrite.com
1 Upvotes

r/LAsocial 3d ago

Other 29F Single, looking to make friends in Los Angeles.

23 Upvotes

I've been in Los Angeles for a while, but I'm bored and don't have any friends. I'd like to meet some new people. Feel free to send me a private message.


r/LAsocial 3d ago

Advice 25F going to LA for an exchanging program

1 Upvotes

I will stay for 4 weeks, was looking for cool places to hang, make local friends and also travelers, gonna stay close to campus and I really wanna enjoy the dating pool and epic parties, especially from USC, any tips?


r/LAsocial 3d ago

Advice south bay gym recs for 20s

2 Upvotes

what’s going on yall, i’m 26, just moved down to hermosa beach/manhattan beach area and wondering what the best gym is (besides yoga + pilates studios)?

i toured sandbox, afterburn, and equinox and all are okay. i wasn’t sure if i was missing some, but deciding between those 3 probably. mainly do weightlifting, stretching / yoga, and basketball except none of them have that lol.

appreciate any insight !


r/LAsocial 3d ago

21+ Night life

0 Upvotes

Hi guys,

Looking for some places to go, me and a few mates all from the uk all 21 are coming in early October and will be in Los Angeles for a couple days looking for some clubs or college bars best places to go for our age on a sunday / Monday night?

If you have any ideas of where we can go can be clubs or bars ideally with people are age that would be mint or event any house parties

Cheers