So You’ve Moved In. Now It’s Time to Meet the Neighbors

So You’ve Moved In. Now It’s Time to Meet the Neighbors

As New York’s top relocation company, we can tell you one thing for sure – no two neighborhoods are alike. Whether you’re moving in NYC or are departing the Big Apple for another city, the suburbs, or a place out in the country, you’re going to have a whole new set of neighbors to get to know.

Different Communities Have Different Cultural Norms

If you’re moving to a community you’ve never spent time in before, it can be wise to spend some time observing and learning local cultural norms. Some towns are friendlier than others, and some communities place a high value of people coming together for festivals and events while others are more reserved and individualistic.

It’s important to balance your own authentic style with community norms. That means if you’re a friendly, outgoing type that waves to everyone, don’t be shocked if the buttoned-up types in the community you’ve moved to don’t wave back. If you’re more on the introverted side and move into a very social town, be prepared to have total strangers engage you in conversation while you’re out for a walk, grocery shopping, getting your mail at the post office, etc.

Walk Around Your New Neighborhood

The best way to get to know a new community is on foot. This is especially true in cities and suburban communities: in more rural settings, where it can be quite a distance between homes, walking can be more of a solitary endeavor. On your walks take note of the different businesses, homes, parks, and other people you meet. It’s good to exercise some judgment – not everyone is friendly – but when you encounter people you’d like to get to know a friendly smile and greeting can start conversations and friendships.

Be Prepared for Outreach

In some communities, you won’t have to take any initiative. The neighbors will come over and introduce themselves. In those cases, it’s good to be prepared – have coffee or tea to offer and a place where you’d like to sit and entertain new people. While your house is still being unpacked, a front porch or family room can be ideal. Be prepared for some questions about what you do, where you’re from, and similar inquiries; the community is just as curious as you are. You’re not obligated to answer everything, and there’s nothing wrong with vague answers if you don’t want to give out too much personal information.