5 Game-Changing Ways to Feel at Home in a New City

Moving to a new city? Here are 5 Game-changing ways to make this new city feel like your home.

Relocating to a new city can be equal parts exciting and overwhelming. Whether you're chasing a career opportunity, personal growth, or just an adventure, finding your rhythm in a new environment takes effort. After living in Montreal, Florence, New York, Milan and Paris in the last 5 years, I’ve learned that a few intentional actions can transform the way you experience a new place. Here are my top 5 Game-Changing Steps to Feel at Home in a New City and to build strong connections.

1. FINDING YOUR FITNESS HAVEN

Getting active is one of the quickest ways to ground yourself in a new city. Join a gym, sign up for a workout class, or explore local yoga studios or running clubs. Not only will you keep up with your health, but you’ll also meet people who share your interest in fitness. A gym buddy or workout partner could quickly become a friend who helps you navigate your new surroundings. One of my favorite pastimes included taking a boxing course in Florence which opened up so many doors for me. I made wonderful friendships and my coach even became a good mentor.

2. ADOPT A SECONDARY RESIDENCE AT YOUR LOCAL COFFEE SHOP

There’s something magical about a neighborhood coffee shop. Make it your mission to find one you love and become a regular. Get to know the baristas and strike up conversations with other clients. Over time, this familiarity can grow into a support system—a friendly face, insider tips about the area, or even invitations to local events. While living in Florence, I used to go to my local coffee shop to practice my Italian with the baristas. I had so much fun with the baristas that they not only turned into good friends but the coffee shop turned into my second home.

3. PURSUE WORK OR LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

Starting a job or enrolling in a class is a fantastic way to meet people with similar interests. Co-workers, classmates, or even instructors can introduce you to the city in ways you’d never discover on your own. Bonus tip: Look for roles or courses that immerse you in the local culture to accelerate your adjustment. Taking an Italian course in Italy was not only beneficial in terms of learning a new language but also an opportunity to make international friends who moved to this new city!

4. SEEK OUT A RELIGIOUS OR SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY

If you’re religious or spiritual, finding a place of worship or community center can provide a strong sense of belonging. As a Jewish woman, I always search for a local Chabad house or synagogue when I move. These spaces not only connect me to my faith but also introduce me to others who share my values and traditions, especially during holidays. From the moment I began going to Chabad in Italy, I developed my new family and support system whom with I could celebrate all the high holidays with.

5. EXPLORE LOCAL EVENTS & GROUPS

Dive into your interests by attending events that excite you. From fashion shows and business meetups to art exhibits and expat groups, there’s no shortage of opportunities to connect. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, along with local newspapers and even coffee shop bulletin boards, are great tools for discovering what’s happening around you. When I moved to New York, I was able to find a facebook group of Canadians living in New York. I found comfort in connecting with Canadians in a foreign environment. They made me feel at home, away from home.

Moving to a new city is an adventure, but the secret to feeling at home lies in the connections you build. By actively engaging with your surroundings, you'll not only adapt faster but also create a life filled with meaningful relationships and experiences.

Ready to take the leap? Start small, stay curious, and watch your new city transform into your sanctuary.