9 low-cost ways to meet a new love (or make a new friend)

Get sparks flying without your funds flying away too. These budget date ideas will expand your world without shrinking your wallet.

By Carolyn Tate

We all know that true love knows no bounds, so it makes sense that it shouldn’t discriminate if you’re working to a budget or trying to keep your costs low. The frugal deserve love too, after all!

If you're on the lookout for romance but don't want to break the bank, there are plenty of affordable - and even free - opportunities to meet potential love interests right in your own community. From volunteering to joining local groups, here are some fantastic places to spark connections without emptying your wallet.

Read this too: Online dating after 50: how to avoid toads (and scammers)

1. Volunteer at community groups

One of the best ways to meet new people and make a positive impact on your community is by joining local volunteer groups. Whether it's cleaning up a park, serving meals at a shelter, or participating in a neighbourhood clean-up, volunteering not only allows you to give back but also provides ample opportunities to meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for making a difference. Plus it’s free and it will leave you with a shiny glow of goodness. 

Check out volunteering opportunities in your local area at Go Volunteer.

2. Take a stroll at the dog park

Who said dogs are man's only best friend? Head to your local dog park with your furry companion in tow, and you might just find yourself striking up a conversation with a fellow dog lover. Whether you're tossing a ball or sharing stories about your pets, the dog park provides a relaxed and natural environment to connect with potential love interests. Don’t have a dog? Borrow one for the outing – just make sure you’re honest about it not being yours. You don’t want to start a new relationship based on a fib.

3. Sign up for a 'come and try' class

Whether it's a cooking class, painting workshop, or dance lesson, signing up for a "come and try" class is a fantastic way to meet new people while learning a new skill. Not only will you expand your horizons, but you'll also have the opportunity to bond with others over a shared interest. And if you like the lesson, and the company, you can sign up for regular classes.

4. Start your next romantic chapter

Love to read? You’re not the only one! Book clubs at your local library or book shop can offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow literature enthusiasts, and you’ll never be lost for something to talk about. Discussing your favourite books over coffee or wine can lead to stimulating conversations and possibly even a romantic spark.

5. Join a walking group

Grab your sneakers and hit the trails with a local walking group. Whether it's a leisurely stroll through the park or a more challenging hike in the mountains, joining a walking group is a great way to meet active and outdoorsy individuals who share your love for nature and exercise. Google “walking group” and your area, or look for groups on Facebook or your local council website.

You could also consider taking a walking holiday (there’s one for every level of fitness).

6. Cultivate common interests

From hiking clubs to board game groups, community sites like Meetup offer an almost endless range of clubs and activities catering to a wide range of interests. Simply create a profile, browse through the available groups in your area, and join the ones that pique your interest. You may find a love interest, or you may just find a whole new group of friends and activities with common interests. Either way, it’s a win!

7. Check out free concerts and events

Keep an eye out for free concerts, festivals, and events happening in your community. Whether it's a summer concert in the park or a local street fair, these gatherings provide a relaxed and festive atmosphere to mingle with others and possibly meet someone special. Subscribe to community events via your local council website, or search events on Facebook.

8. Online groups to keep you connected

If you’re more shy, or you find it hard to get out of the house sometimes, social media platforms like Facebook offer countless opportunities to connect with people who share your interests. Join local community groups or special interest groups related to your hobbies and passions. Join in conversations, and engage with other users, and send friend requests to people you click with. Who knows where it could lead?

More inspo: Dating app inspo: 2 couples who said ‘I do’ after swiping right

9. Host at your house

Ready to be more proactive? Why not take matters into your own hands and host a barbecue or party at your place? Or even a murder mystery party? Invite your friends and tell them you’d like to make it a truly social event by encouraging them to bring along a new friend. It's a fun and casual way to expand your social circle and potentially meet someone new in a relaxed setting. If you’re feeling truly bold, you can host a singles mixer, where everyone brings a single friend, with the intention of helping people to meet someone. What’s the worst thing that could happen? 

And, once you’ve met someone you’d like to impress, why not try some of these unconventional date ideas in your city?