Hi, I’m Maureen Mahood, broker-owner of SellYourHomeCharlotte.com, and since 2015, I’ve been helping people buy and sell homes across the Charlotte metro.
Quick Answer: The fastest way to make friends in Charlotte is to join interest‑based Meetup groups and attend free neighborhood events each week.
One of the biggest questions newcomers ask me is: “How do I meet people in Charlotte?”
Whether you’re relocating for work, moving closer to family, or just craving a fresh start, finding your community makes your new city feel like home faster. Charlotte’s a friendly place, but like any growing city, it helps to know where to plug in.
Here are some of the best ways to meet people and build your community in Charlotte:
Quick Links: Social Groups | Free Events | Volunteer | Classes & Workshops | Gyms & Rec Leagues
Join Local Social Groups
- CLT Social Club, Charlotte New Friends Meetup, and Meetup Groups host happy hours, hikes, trivia nights, and volunteer days, making it easy to connect with others.
- If you’re 40 and over, explore the Charlotte Over 40 Social Group and Queen City Socialites 40+, which organize wine tastings, game nights, and cultural outings—perfect for meeting peers in a relaxed setting.
- Many newcomers meet neighbors by walking at local parks like those listed on Charlotte Mecklenburg Parks and Recreation or by joining dog-friendly breweries.
Attend Free Community Events
- Check out local farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and neighborhood festivals. Charlotte on the Cheap is a great resource for upcoming free events.
Volunteer
- Organizations like Second Harvest Food Bank, RescuedMe, and Habitat for Humanity Charlotte always need volunteers. You’ll meet people while giving back. Volunteering is also a smart way to learn a neighborhood before you buy—see my East Charlotte spotlight to get started.
Take a Class or Workshop
- The Charlotte area has endless options for fitness classes, art workshops, and cooking classes where you can meet people with shared interests. Try pop‑up sessions at SkillPop Charlotte or browse CPCC Personal Enrichment courses to learn alongside locals.
Find a Local Gym or Rec League
- From pickleball to soccer leagues, Charlotte’s active community offers many ways to meet people while staying healthy. Check out the YMCA of Greater Charlotte for group classes and leagues, or explore Mecklenburg County Park & Rec sports leagues for beginner‑friendly teams.
Why This Matters If You’re Moving to Charlotte
When you’re buying a home, it’s not just about the house. It’s about the lifestyle, your daily routine, and the people you meet. That’s why I always encourage buyers to explore neighborhoods, visit local coffee shops, and attend events to see which parts of Charlotte feel like home to them. If you’re ready to start exploring, check out my Charlotte Neighborhood Guides.
If you’re thinking about moving to Charlotte, I’d be happy to share recommendations that match your lifestyle and connect you with local resources to ease your move. You can also review the Cost of Living in Charlotte for planning.
10 FAQs About Making Friends in Charlotte
1. Is Charlotte a friendly city for newcomers?
2. Where do most newcomers meet people?
3. Are there dog-friendly social groups in Charlotte?
4. Is Charlotte good for young professionals looking for community?
5. Are there groups for families with kids?
6. Can I find volunteer opportunities to meet people?
7. Are there recreation centers or gyms where newcomers can easily meet people?
8. Does Charlotte have a lot of networking groups?
9. What are the best neighborhoods for social events?
10. How can a Realtor help me find the right community?
Ready to Explore Charlotte?
