Returning after 13 years away

So i’ve been meaning to come back to WoW for a numerous number of years, and finally took the plunge again recently. After logging back in i had that same feel but… with a sad feeling knowing freinds etc have either left the game all together or gone to other realms.
Wondering if there are still players going back 13 years or so?
And has the game really changed from back then?
Instead of taking off from level 32 should i reroll a level 1 or does it not matter?