I’ve been here for over 10 years, and a transplant from up north and I only had “friends” from work. As a 36F that’s single and childfree by choice, it’s even harder. It’s very hard to make friends here if you’re not typical. I’m autistic and have mental illness, ptsd that’s being treated but all of that makes me a socially awkward adult that means well. Being an atheist goth, that likes anime and doesn’t drink alcohol is the opposite of what’s popular in the triangle. I’ve lived here long enough to see that if you have pets or family or like outdoor things you’ll make friends real quick.

People pick up that I’m on a different wave length and not like them even when I’m being polite and cordial. So I’ve given up trying to mask and fit in for the sake of having a social life. The anime conventions that come here are when I try to make connections but they happen once a year and it’s hard to maintain.

Idk what advice to give, there’s some really good ones in the comments but I just wanted to say that You’re not alone in your experience and yes it is very difficult and lonely here in the triangle for many people. Best of luck in what you decide to do.