How to make a new place your hometown

More Americans have been making big moves: Out of an urban center to an outlying suburb or to new towns and cities that promise more affordable, easier living.

Except that, initially, the quest for more enjoyable living may not feel very comfortable, caution people who’ve felt the loneliness a new locale can engender.

Makeup artist and author Mandie Brice, who’s moved to a new metropolitan area every two years for the past six-plus years, says she tries to remember the pain of feeling lost amid unfamiliar people and surroundings. As an introvert, that’s how she fights the temptation to “decide it’s easier to stay home” rather than go to one of the activities she’s scheduled.

She’s found local events on the Meetup app, Facebook groups and the Eventbrite site where she can chat with new people.

Indeed, there are proven strategies that can help you establish roots, say those who’ve relocated and real estate professionals:

Old friends can lead to new ones

People who already know you “are likely to know someone you’d be compatible with and have fun with,” Brice says. Ask friends and family to give you referrals of anyone they know in an area and post your request on social media so that your entire network can make suggestions.

Look out for structured activities

Every town has organizations where you can volunteer at, including the library or a local school, suggests Alison Bernstein, founder of real estate advisory Suburban Jungle.

Keep a daily routine

When she moved from Orlando, Florida, to Los Angeles, “I would mainly go to the gym at the same time and after you go consistently you start seeing the same people,” shares UCLA student Genesis Gutierrez.

Ask your agent for introductions

Since real estate agents are in the people-moving business, your agent in your new hometown might be able to connect you with others who’ve recently moved there from out of town.