I know I am spoiled and I too rarely do group rides. I am far better off situationally than you with a very bike friendly community that actively want cycling events. Nice 5 and 8 foot bike lanes for many miles through neighborhoods and town. But even with this ideal set up I find I have a very friendly route that I almost always take with very few left turns (across traffic) which gives me great comfort and relaxation. I have come to know the dog walkers, runners and just walkers on my almost daily route and we we always exchange good mornings. Not new and different but a very pleasant experience that I very much enjoy. Good luck in your search.