The number of Americans who report knowing most or all of their neighbors has decreased, according to a 2025 Pew Research Center survey. In 2018, 31 percent of U.S. adults said they knew all or most of their neighbors; by 2025, that figure had fallen to 26 percent.
Despite the decline in familiarity, overall trust among neighbors remains relatively high. The survey indicated that 90 percent of adults trust some, most, or all of the people in their neighborhood. However, demographics that report higher rates of knowing and trusting their neighbors tend to be older, higher-income white individuals living in rural or suburban areas who regularly attend religious services.
Experts emphasize the importance of strong neighborly relationships for both mental and physical health. Local community ties can be crucial for safety, particularly in the face of increasing extreme weather events and the vulnerability caused by immigration enforcement actions. Beyond safety, these connections can foster a sense of ease and affirmation in daily life.
However, neighborly relationships can also become strained. Conflicts can escalate quickly due to the proximity and personal nature of these interactions, affecting individuals' sense of privacy and security. Navigating these challenges with empathy is particularly relevant as technology, such as doorbell cameras, increases the potential for contact and observation of neighbors.
This trend of declining familiarity highlights a shift in community dynamics. The Pew survey data suggests a growing gap in neighborly connection, with certain demographic groups more likely to maintain these ties than others. The research indicates that while trust may persist, the active engagement and recognition of neighbors are diminishing for a significant portion of the population.