A word to describe someone with the same taste/likes

The phrase I associate the most with this is like-minded. From the Free Dictionary

like-minded, adj

agreeing in opinions, goals, etc

It doesn't have the institutional connotations that you are seeking to avoid.

The second definition of sympathy, same source, usually in the plural form for this usage, also rings true:

a. Mutual understanding or feeling between people: "Like two frightened children, we sought at the same time to comfort one another, so quick was the sympathy between us" (Nicholas Meyer).

b. Agreement with or support for an opinion or position: The mayor is in sympathy with the proposal.

c. often sympathies A tendency to support a position or opinion: a politician of conservative sympathies.

Kindred spirit(s): a person(or persons) who has the same opinions, feelings, and interests as you. https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/kindred-spirit