12 U.S. Cities That HATE Outsiders
America has its kind of culture, charm, and history, and that’s the diversity of its cities. Not every city is so welcoming to visitors – or new residents. Some places have a reputation for being very tight-knit communities, having wacky traditions, or just wanting things to be the same.
It doesn’t mean that you can’t visit these cities. Their mystique, in fact, often has its roots in their resistance to outsiders. Here are 12 cities to tread carefully in if you plan a trip or move there.
Portland, Oregon
Portland is very proud of its local culture and way of life. There are craft breweries, coffee shops, and an active arts scene, but the city is also full of locals who want to keep all that while keeping out the new people. The unofficial motto, “Keep Portland Weird,” seems to double as a reminder to outsiders: “It’s keep it Portland, keep it local.”
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston’s long-standing traditions and deep-rooted history make it sometimes standoffish. Bostonians are proud of their sports teams, neighborhoods, and way of life. Prove you can keep up with the best of them; then you’re accepted, but otherwise, visitors can often have trouble keeping up with the local lingo and customs and are never understood.
San Francisco, California
The past few decades have seen San Francisco experience a tech boom, with many new residents and visitors. Locals lament how the city has gone downhill, reflecting on the impact of rising living costs. Those who still remember the ‘good old days’ before the tech giants arrived often give the cold shoulder.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle is famous for its coffee culture and rainy weather but also for the so-called “Seattle Freeze.” This term refers to the city’s polite but aloof attitude toward newcomers. At first, the locals are friendly enough, but it’s hard to become friends because they don’t want to leave their existing social circles.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston may be known as the city with southern hospitality, but don’t be confused: This hospitality has limits. The city’s historic roots are deep, and the authorities are rightly proud. Charleston is proud of its character and never wants to speed things up, so to speak, which might make newcomers and tourists feel a bit weird.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is known for music, food, and festivals, and it has a rich cultural tapestry. That doesn’t mean it’s not a culture wary of outsiders, particularly if you’re not into the city’s culture and history.
Austin, Texas
Keep Austin Weird is Austin’s motto, indicating their dedication to keeping the area’s weird and independent spirit. As the city grows rapidly, many long-time residents are also wary of the changes that come with new arrivals. It’s a very welcoming city, but there’s also a definite tension between the older adults of Austin and the new people who set it down.
Boulder, Colorado
Boulder is proud to be outdoorsy and progressive, so sometimes it can be hard for outsiders to feel at ease. The community likes its small-town feel, and people tend to be suspicious of newcomers until they really get settled and become part of it.
Key West, Florida
Key West is mostly famous for its laidback atmosphere and vivid arts but its reality is that it is so isolated that the residents are keenly aware of the guards of their homes. Visitors are fine for a short stay, but becoming a permanent resident and being accepted as part of the community requires a little effort.
Detroit, Michigan
The Detroit locals are proud of their resilience, as the city has had its share of ups and downs. This pride, however, can manifest itself as a kind of wariness about outsiders. Detroit has very tight-knit communities, and they are very careful about people who don’t understand its struggles and triumphs.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu is home to many locals who fiercely protect it from overtourism and outside influences. There is an ‘aloha spirit,’ but there is also a desire to protect their culture and way of life. Provided you approach with respect and an open mind, you’ll likely be warmly welcomed.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City has a strong cultural identity, and because of its religious roots, it can be hard for outsiders to fit in. It’s a close-knit community, and while visitors are encouraged, getting in with the inner circle takes time and effort.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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