Meetup review
Find local groups and events around shared interests
- Meetup
- Free + paid plans
- iPhone & iPad, Android, Web
Does it deserve #9?
The verdict
Meetup is still the go-to place to find recurring local groups, from hiking clubs and language exchanges to tech talks and book clubs. Joining groups is free, and RSVPs, messages and event updates all live in the app. Organizers pay a subscription, which pushes some groups to charge dues. The app has grown cluttered, and group quality depends entirely on local organizers.
- Interest-based local groups
- Event RSVPs and reminders
- Online and in-person events
- Member profiles and messaging
Score breakdown
Overall = features 30% · design 20% · speed 20% · value 15% · privacy 15%. Why these weights?
What we like
- Wide range of hobby and professional groups
- Free for members to join and RSVP
- Good for meeting people in a new city
What could be better
- Organizer fees can push groups to charge dues
- Cluttered app with frequent upsells
Newcomers and hobbyists looking for recurring groups to meet people locally
you want one-off big events or are inviting your own friends
Questions about Meetup
Is Meetup free?
Joining groups and RSVPing to events is free for members, though some organizers charge for events. Meetup+ is an optional member subscription, and organizers pay to run groups.
Is Meetup good for making friends?
Yes, especially in bigger cities. Recurring groups let you see the same people regularly, which is how friendships tend to form.
What are the best alternatives to Meetup?
The closest alternatives are Eventbrite, Nextdoor and Partiful. See all of them ranked on our Meetup alternatives page.
Where does Meetup rank?
Meetup ranks #9 of 10 in our Community & Events ranking, with an overall score of 7.8 out of 10.