9 Most Neighborly Towns In The United States
Americans often stand out for everyday helpfulness, from sharing local tips to offering roadside assistance or a quick chat on the sidewalk. In fact, Americans rank 6th globally on the CAF generosity index. That friendly spirit shows up across the country, and it’s easy to feel in places like St. Charles, where the parks and riverfront draw neighbors outdoors, or in Sandpoint, where downtown streets and the lakeshore keep people mingling. The towns below range from Great Lakes harbors and Rocky Mountain base camps to West Texas art enclaves and laid-back Pacific coast villages. Let's explore 9 of the most neighborly US towns.
St. Charles, IL
Every time I visit my relatives in St. Charles, Illinois, I am impressed by the familial vibes that emanate from the entire Chicago satellite town. Neighborhood kids play in the streets, morning walkers say hello to one another (or "buenos dias," for there is a non-trivial Latino population here), dogs chase frisbees in the off-leash areas, families picnic in Pottawatomie Park, bookworms gather for the used book sales at the public library, and students, remote workers, and retirees alike gather in the fresh and modern public spaces. To cozy up with the locals, sit down to a cup of joe at Arcedium Coffeehouse, Town House Cafe, or Maple Leaf Roasters, or grab a craft pint at Alter Brewing (preferably on open mic night) - all of which are steps away from the serene Fox River.
Mendocino, CA
While cruising down California's coast, I found Mendocino to be a shining beacon. Ultimately, it's what I hoped the entire shoreline would look and feel like. This cozy northern California community is squished into a walkable notch that borders the namesake bay and juts ever so slightly into the majestic Pacific Ocean. Likewise, Mendocino's pastel, frozen-in-time homes, shops, and museums are framed by the steep shorelines, sandy beaches, and grassy nature trails of Mendocino Headlands State Park. Contrary to some of its coastal peers, this place is both safe and inviting to a full spectrum of visitors - from affluent vacationers to adventurous van lifers. In the morning, the eclectic crowds gather at the cabin-themed Waiting Room coffee shop, and at the end of the day, many of those same folks flock to Big River Beach for surfing, bonfires, and reflective walks.
Sandpoint, ID
Idaho's Panhandle region is easy to overlook but unexpectedly delightful for all who enter. If I had to single out one particularly neighborly focal point, it would be Sandpoint. This tasteful city sits at the top of beautiful Lake Pend Oreille. Thus, as the name suggests, sandy beaches invite summertime crowds to sunbathe and mingle. In addition to Sandpoint City Beach Park, the other social epicenter is that of 1st Avenue. All sorts of restaurants - from grab n' go grub to ethnic and organic goodies - complement a wealth of independent shops and watering holes. Whatever you do, don't skip over Cedar Street Bridge - a unique public market at the north end of 1st filled with artisan outlets and pop-up vendors, all overlooking Sand Creek. Still not convinced? Why not scoot west to the community space shared by Evans Brothers Coffee, Matchwood Brewing Company, and Sandpoint Rock Gym for a morning morale boost, a mid-day belay, or an evening sociable in front of the outdoor stage?
Marfa, TX
During my southbound van camping tour of the States, several people advised me to skip over West Texas. Their reasoning was pragmatic and, therefore, well-intentioned, but after spending five days in Marfa, I'm so glad I ignored them. In the wake of Donald Judd, who boldly moved to Marfa from New York in order to convert an old army base into a massive contemporary art project (i.e., the Chinati Foundation), this quirky enclave continues to draw spirited, creative folks who are on a quest to do things a bit differently. Rather than get swept up in the hustle culture of modern-day America, Marfanians prefer to open small businesses that are more about aesthetics and vibe than profits. In fact, rather than nine-to-five franchises, the hipster cafes, fringe cocktail lounges, and avant-garde galleries make up Marfa's core post hours such as 12-4 or 7-10, Thurs-Sat. But during those fleeting phases, some Austin emigrant, young mother, or blue-collar local is likely to strike up a memorable conversation with fellow patrons. Check the local posters (how refreshingly old school!) for upcoming events, including live music at El Cosmico, indie film shoots, and weekly yoga classes.
Marquette, MI
The Great Lakes have a way of bringing the best out of people. Perhaps it is their humbling grandeur, or perhaps it is the dichotomous seasonal swings that soften the souls of those living around their shores. Either way, Michigan's Marquette is a great example of this. Situated on the Lake Superior side of the Upper Peninsula, the relative isolation, sunny summers, and harsh winters all work to bring people together. This mid-sized city has an inventive downtown filled with red-brick buildings, inviting establishments, and eye-catching murals. It is also home to one of the most spacious and appealing local parks I've yet to come across. Presque Isle Park occupies the 322-acre peninsula on the north end of town. It offers health-conscious residents and U.P. explorers a well-kept place to hike amongst evergreens and enjoy sweeping views of the world's largest freshwater lake.
Bayfield, WI
Michigan's neighbor to the west boasts a lively lakeside community. Bayfield, Wisconsin, also benefits from the majestic presence of Lake Superior, highlighted by the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Take a cruise around the 21-island archipelago, which features historic lighthouses and striking sandstone caves. The largest and nearest island, Madeline Island, hosts Big Bay State Park, an ideal place for a beach day or a walk along seven miles of scenic trails. In Bayfield itself, explore history at the artifact-packed Bayfield Maritime Museum, then head to Rittenhouse Avenue to experience the friendly atmosphere. This area offers a popular coffee shop, a reputable bookstore, a quirky market, and various unique shops, all amid charming boutique hotels and guesthouses.
Whitefish, MT
This mountain resort town in the Rockies serves as an excellent base for visiting one of America's most popular family-friendly national parks and is a destination worth exploring throughout the year. Whitefish, a lively community in northern Montana, is situated less than 30 miles southwest of Glacier National Park and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. It's also under seven miles from Whitefish Mountain Resort, which offers skiing, ziplining, and mountain biking. The town is located at the foot of a scenic, beached-speckled lake. No matter the weather or mode of travel—water, road, or mountain—good company is assured. Downtown Whitefish is always lively, hosting events like the Tuesday evening Farmers' Market in Depot Park with local musicians, outdoor concerts at Thirty-Eight food-truck venue, and numerous breweries pulsing with music throughout the area.
Ferndale, CA
In Humboldt County, just a few minutes inland from the Pacific Ocean, lies another charming and inviting Californian gem. Although it doesn't have waterfront views, it makes up for it with Victorian charm and friendly character. Ferndale appears as if it stepped out of a fairy tale. This entire narrow village is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It features classic churches, decorated mansions—some now serving as unique accommodations—regal inns, artsy boutiques, a historic hilltop cemetery open to the public, and Fernbridge, the world's longest in-service poured concrete bridge. These highlights explain its popularity. Ferndale is also close to the peaceful Humboldt Redwoods State Park and the treasures of the Lost Coast. The greatest treasure, however, is its 1,400 friendly residents and a steady flow of happy visitors. Wandering through this tiny community, it's hard not to feel uplifted.
Coos Bay, OR
This final entry is less refined compared to its predecessors, but it feels more genuine because of it. Coos Bay, located on Oregon's Adventure Coast, is a port and timber city. It offers easy access to waters, lush wilderness, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area's shifting dunes, and the wooded paths of Sunset Bay and Cape Arago State Parks. However, Coos Bay also has a vibrant, outgoing side. For instance, I lucked out during my September weekend visit. The entire town supported the Prefontaine Memorial 10k, honoring its famous Olympian, Steve Prefontaine, which I participated in gladly. Later, many more people turned out for the Bay Area Fun Festival. That evening, the Egyptian Theatre—exactly what it sounds like—screened Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey for an enthusiastic crowd of film lovers. Meanwhile, I enjoyed visiting the lively So It Goes Coffeehouse, the community- and Christian-oriented Kaffe 101 ('love thy neighbor'), the lively 7 Devils Public House, and the cozy Coos Bay Boardwalk and Visitor Center.
Won't You Be My Neighbor?
Say what you will about the states (for the old Red, White, and Blue is simultaneously the envy and punching bag for much of the world), its everyday citizens are class acts. From tip-to-tail, my real-world experiences have been overwhelmingly positive - particularly in these neighborly towns. So if you're looking to connect with wholesome people in stunning natural environments, then these nine places are well-worth checking out.
