8 Tips for Moving to a New City Alone

Moving to a new city alone can stir up a whirlwind of emotions, from excitement to fear and uncertainty. It can feel overwhelming—no familiar faces, no one to lean on, and no one to show you the ropes. However, moving solo is also an exciting opportunity for a fresh start, to meet new people, and to discover more about yourself.

At New Roots Relocation, we have supported many individuals relocating to Canadian cities  from all around the world and helped them find their footing in new surroundings. Here’s a list of helpful tips from our team of experts to make your adjustment period more manageable.

1. Research Your New City

Whether you’re handling the move on your own or working with a relocation company, the first step is to understand your needs. The process of easing into a new city will be smoother if you choose an area that aligns with your lifestyle, work, and personal preferences.

Once you have a list of priorities, the next thing to do is search for ideal neighbourhoods in your new city. If you’re unsure about committing to a location, consider renting or even short-term housing to begin with—this way, you can try out the area before making a long-term commitment. Apartment sharing and co-living communities are two popular options for those looking to settle in more quickly.

2. Build a Routine

Following a consistent schedule and building new habits will make your new place feel more like home. It helps to familiarize yourself with local spots like bakeries, grocery stores, and cafes; these small, regular visits will help you feel more connected to the area.

As you get into the rhythm of daily life—deciding where to shop, what to eat, and how to structure your days—you’ll naturally begin to feel more comfortable and settled in your surroundings.

3. Go Out And Meet People

Making new friends can feel intimidating at first, especially if everyone seems to already have established friend groups. But building a support system doesn’t mean you need to show up at a party all alone.

Start by looking for common ground: if you’ve relocated for work, check if your company can provide resources or connect you with colleagues who’ve experienced similar moves to help you adjust. Reaching out to people you already know in the area, such as former colleagues or acquaintances, can also be a helpful step in creating a familiar network. 

Additionally, social clubs and alumni groups often have local chapters in major cities. If you’ve moved from another country, there may be organizations run by people from your home country who can offer support as you settle in.

For those who are less social, joining a sports club or a hobby-based group (gardening, photography, painting, you name it!) can be a relaxed way to meet people while doing something you enjoy. 

4. Attend Events

Joining events and holiday celebrations is a fantastic way to connect with your new city and stay in the loop as a resident. Many cities host annual festivals, like the Montreal International Jazz Festival, the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto, and Nocturne Festival in Halifax.

The beauty of city life is the wide variety of places and activities that cater to all personality types. Seek out events and groups that align with your hobbies, whether it’s food, art, music, or outdoor activities—you’ll be meeting like-minded people and settling in naturally as you enjoy what the city has to offer.

5. Explore Your New City

There’s nothing wrong with being a tourist first! Exploring popular landmarks and familiarizing yourself with the local sights and sounds can help you feel more connected to your new city.

Don’t limit yourself to the tourist hotspots, though. Take a walk around your neighbourhood to find hidden gems like the cozy, hole-in-the-wall restaurants that locals love. It’s a great way to discover the area and get a true taste of the city’s character.

6. Immerse In The Local Culture

Connecting with the local culture can make daily life smoother and help you build meaningful connections with others. Each place has its own cultural nuances and traditions, and embracing these can enrich the experience of moving to a new city.

For example, new Torontonians can explore Kensington Market, a multicultural neighbourhood filled with unique shops, cafes, and street art.

Whether it’s through language classes, cultural events, or casual conversations with locals, engaging with the city’s culture will help you adapt and appreciate your new surroundings more fully.

7. Stay Connected With Family And Friends

It’s normal to feel homesick and out of place at times. There will be moments when you miss the comfort of familiar faces and wish you could just hop on the next plane to see them again. 

Scheduling regular video calls with your loved ones can bridge this distance and provide support whenever you’re feeling down or left out. Even sending photos from your camera roll—like a new favourite spot or a view from your walk—helps you stay connected while giving them a glimpse of your daily life.

Inviting friends and family to visit your city is another wonderful way to share your new life with them and gives you something special to look forward to.

8. Give Yourself Time To Adjust

Adjusting to a new city takes time, patience, and effort, especially when it comes to forming friendships and building a support network. Finding your community may take weeks, months, or even longer—each person’s timeline is different. Allow yourself to take things slow, and remember that it’s okay to spend some time alone as you settle in. 

Loneliness and uncertainty are part of the process, so don’t hold back from experiencing whatever emotions arise. As long as you make an effort to connect with the people around you, your new relationships and sense of belonging will naturally develop and strengthen over time. Before you know it, a once unfamiliar city will start to feel like home.

At New Roots Relocation, we understand the challenges of moving—we’ve been through it ourselves and have helped many people through their relocation journey. Whether you need assistance finding the right neighbourhood or setting up the essentials, our team is dedicated to ensuring your relocation is as seamless and supportive as possible. Contact us today to start building your new roots!