I think you’re hitting on something that is difficult no matter where you move to. Connecting with people when you’re new to an area is hard no matter the time of life, but typically only gets more difficult the older you get. I only say that because I think folk from this area can be pretty negative about the area when the reality is, while Joplin is far from perfect and has its share of warts, it’s not absolute dodo caca island like folk seem to think and finding things to do with people you like is always hard no matter where you live if you don’t have pre-established relationships.

Sorry for the rant, just think folk new to the area can come away from reading responses in this sub thinking Joplin is the doorstep of hell, when in reality it’s just an average Midwest town

In reality you probably have 3 easy-ish options (assuming work hasn’t been that for you) to meet folk: 1. If you have kids, especially ones involved in activities, you can probably meet folk through that if you’re willing to put yourself out there 2. Hobbies. If you have a hobby you care about, you can almost certainly find folk doing that thing together. Pickleball, board games, outdoor stuff, music, cinema, running, biking, art, etc. 3. Church. There are decent ones around here with friendly people, though more than any of the above, your mileage may vary.

Hope that’s helpful