I think some people make friends without any effort while others find it hard. I've always been in the latter group. During my school years I had few, if any friends. I also didn't really connect with anyone at college or during my undergraduate degree. It wasn't until later, and further study, that I started to find some people that I had something in common with. I think that I also knew and accepted myself better. I think it's also harder if you're introverted. Not sure it that applies to you. I think you could search for special interest groups. Another place to meet people might be in evening classes or workshops relating to topics that interest you.