How well do you know the people who live next door or across the street? Borrowing a cup of sugar from a neighbor or letting your kids play together was very common decades ago, but most of us can’t imagine doing that now. According to a new survey, only 30% of Americans know their neighbors beyond a casual level now.
The Rocket Mortgage poll of 2-thousand people across the country finds that while nearly 80% believe strong neighborhoods improve their quality of life, only one in six actively try to interact with their neighbors.
- The thing is, 50 years ago, neighborhoods were a big part of our culture and identity, and 80% say they were places people naturally connected.
- But today, we’re hesitant to reach out, as 22% admit they feel awkward making the first move with a neighbor.
- Nearly 42% say people in their neighborhood tend to keep to themselves, and 41% say even knocking on a neighbor’s door feels too bold.
- Still, 68% report getting support from a neighbor in the last year and 58% say they would rely on a neighbor in an emergency. And more than two-thirds (65%) would feel comfortable offering help.
- Connecting doesn’t have to be a big thing, as 53% say small, repeated moments, like a quick hello, short chat, or returning a misdelivered package - help build relationships more than planned gatherings.
- But 29% admit they sometimes avoid socializing with neighbors, usually because they’re in a hurry or preoccupied.⠀