New Pew Study Looks at Americans Trust for Neighbors

 

A new study by the Pew Research Center reveals something important—and a little sad—about life in America today: fewer of us know or trust our neighbors. According to their 2025 survey, only 26% of adults say they know all or most of their neighbors, and just 44% say they trust them. Both numbers have dropped in recent years, signaling a growing disconnection in our communities. So what’s going on? Let’s dig into the details.

Fading Connections

Back in 2018, 31% of Americans said they knew most of their neighbors. That number is now just 26%. Trust is also down—from 52% in 2015 to 44% today. This might not seem like a big deal at first, but strong neighborhoods often rely on knowing and trusting the people next door. When we lose those connections, we lose something powerful: the ability to lean on one another.

Who Knows Their Neighbors Best?

Some groups of people are more likely to feel connected to those living nearby. The Pew study found that older adults, white Americans, people with higher incomes, and those living in rural or suburban areas are more likely to say they know and trust their neighbors. Another interesting finding: people who regularly attend in-person religious services are more likely to feel a strong connection to their neighbors.

What Makes People Trust Each Other?

It turns out that feeling similar to your neighbors can increase trust. About half of Americans believe their neighbors share their race or ethnicity. Others feel they have similar education levels (38%) or political views (23%). These shared traits often make it easier to build trust and a sense of comfort.

Wanting to Help—But Unsure Others Will

Here’s a surprising twist: while many Americans are willing to help their neighbors, they aren’t so sure their neighbors would do the same for them. For example:

• 76% would bring in a neighbor’s mail or water their plants,

• but only 52% believe their neighbors would do the same.

• 67% would bring food to a sick neighbor,

• but only 42% think they’d receive a meal in return.

This gap between what people are willing to do and what they expect from others shows how much trust really matters.

Closer is Better?

Even though trust in the general public is falling, neighbors still come out ahead. Only 34% of adults say most people can be trusted, compared to 44% who say they trust their neighbors. This suggests that physical closeness—just living near someone—can help build trust, even when the world feels uncertain.

Why It Matters

Why should we care about these numbers? Because strong neighborhoods are built on relationships. When people feel connected, they’re more likely to help each other, solve problems together, and feel safe. They’re also more likely to feel like they belong.

How We Rebuild Connection

The good news? There are ways to bring back that neighborly spirit. Hosting a block party, starting a neighborhood garden, or just saying hello more often can make a big difference. Community events, shared projects, and friendly conversations all help bridge the gap.

In a time when so many things feel divided, our neighborhoods can still be places of trust, kindness, and connection. But it starts with each of us.

Source: Pew Research Center (May 8, 2025).
Read the full study here.

Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via email at dburton541@yahoo.com or visit his website at http://engagedneighbor.com.