15 Small Towns in America Where Outsiders Aren’t Exactly Welcome
Ever been driving through a quaint little town and felt like all eyes were on you? Some places just have that unwelcoming vibe. These towns, protective of traditions, valuing solitude, or shaped by history, aren’t welcoming newcomers anytime soon.
A University of Pennsylvania study notes that while towns like New Marshall embrace change, others resist outsiders. If you’re a travel enthusiast, adventure seeker, or culture explorer, get ready to discover 15 small American towns where being an outsider isn’t exactly embraced.
Centralia, Pennsylvania
Centralia, once a thriving coal mining town, now stands as a haunting reminder of environmental disaster and government intervention. With a population that has dwindled from over 1,000 in 1980 to just five residents in 2020, Centralia has become a near-ghost town due to an underground coal fire that has been burning since 1962. The government’s use of eminent domain in 1992 to condemn all real estate in the borough has left the remaining residents in a state of limbo.
Visitors are often met with suspicion, as the town’s few inhabitants fiercely guard their privacy and right to remain in their homes. Centralia’s residents prefer solitude, with one famously chasing off journalists with a broom and considering illegal cell phone jammers.
Buford, Wyoming
Buford held the distinction of being America’s smallest town, with a population of just one person. Located about 30 minutes east of Laramie on Interstate 80, it sat on a mere 10 acres of land at an impressive elevation of 8,000 feet. The town’s isolation and unique status made it a curiosity for travelers, but its sole resident maintained a cautious approach to outsiders.
Buford’s history was intertwined with the Civil War, named after Union General John Buford, adding a layer of historical significance to the tiny outpost. Buford garnered international attention, with its single inhabitant serving as both mayor and gatekeeper to this peculiar piece of Americana until moving out in 2012.
McCarthy, Alaska
McCarthy, nestled in the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a remote community that fiercely guards its isolation and unique way of life. With a population that fluctuates between 40 and 100 residents depending on the season, McCarthy is only accessible by a single 60-mile dirt road or by small aircraft. However, in 2023, its population dwindled to just two people.
The town’s residents have cultivated a reputation for being wary of outsiders, particularly those who might threaten their off-grid lifestyle. McCarthy’s limited modern amenities, including no cell phone service and unpaved roads, serve as natural deterrents to casual visitors.
Hinsdale, New Hampshire
Hinsdale, a small town of about 4,000 residents, maintains a strong sense of community that can be intimidating to outsiders. Located in the southwestern corner of the state, Hinsdale was chartered in 1753 and has preserved much of its historic character. Designated a “Housing Champion” by the NH Department of Business and Economic Affairs in December 2024, the town takes pride in its status but remains wary of newcomers.
Hinsdale’s strict adherence to traditional New England town meeting governance and its emphasis on local decision-making can make it challenging for outsiders to integrate. Newcomers to Hinsdale must take time to gain acceptance and embrace its traditions.
Skidmore, Missouri
Skidmore, a town of 230 residents, carries a dark reputation that continues to shape its relationship with outsiders. The infamous 1981 vigilante killing of town bully Ken Rex McElroy, witnessed by dozens yet unsolved to this day, has cast a long shadow over Skidmore. This event, coupled with other tragic incidents, has made residents extremely wary of outside attention and intrusion.
Visitors often report feeling unwelcome, with locals reluctant to discuss the town’s history or engage with strangers. Despite efforts to revitalize the community and move beyond its notorious past, Skidmore’s residents remain protective of their privacy and skeptical of outsiders’ intentions.
Whittier, Alaska
Whittier is a unique town that embodies the rugged spirit of Alaskan living while maintaining a distinct sense of insularity. Data USA states that in 2022, Whittier, AK, had 377 residents, a median age of 36.5, and a median household income of $48,828. Whittier is primarily accessible by a single tunnel that connects it to the mainland, creating a natural barrier to outsiders. The town’s only residential building, the Begich Towers, houses most of its inhabitants in close quarters, fostering a tight-knit community where privacy is scarce.
Residents often express a wary attitude towards outsiders, fearing that increased tourism might disrupt their way of life and the tranquility they cherish. Whittier remains a place where locals prefer to keep their distance from those who come seeking adventure.
Aurora, Texas
Aurora may be small in size but is rich in quirky history and local lore that can make outsiders feel unwelcome. Known for the legendary UFO crash in 1897 that supposedly involved an alien named “Ned,” the town has become a curiosity for those intrigued by extraterrestrial tales. However, this small community of about 1,000 residents has largely maintained its tight-knit atmosphere and is protective of its unique heritage.
Visitors often find it challenging to break into the social fabric of Aurora, as locals tend to be reserved and skeptical of newcomers. The town’s charm lies in its storied past, but for those unfamiliar with its ways, fitting in can prove to be an uphill battle.
Picher, Oklahoma
Picher, once a bustling mining town, now stands as one of the most toxic places in America due to decades of lead and zinc mining. The population has dwindled from over 14,000 in the 1920s to just a handful today, as environmental disasters have rendered much of the area uninhabitable. Residents who remain are often suspicious of outsiders and media attention, fearing further scrutiny on their already troubled community.
Picher’s status as an unincorporated town since 2009 highlights its struggle for identity amid ongoing environmental cleanup efforts by the EPA. Locals in Picher prefer to avoid those who might exploit their tragic story, even as some see it as a place for exploration or research.
Hoopa, California
Hoopa is home to the Hoopa Valley Tribe and boasts a rich cultural heritage that has been preserved for generations. The tribe’s deep connection to their land makes them wary of outsiders who may not respect their traditions or understand their way of life. World Population Review estimates Hoopa, California’s current population at 2,904 based on the latest US Census data.
Visitors often find themselves met with skepticism as they navigate local customs and cultural practices that differ significantly from mainstream society. Despite its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance, Hoopa remains a place where outsiders must tread carefully to earn trust and acceptance.
Forks, Washington
Forks gained notoriety as the fictional home of vampires in Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight” series but has struggled with the influx of tourists seeking to experience its supernatural charm. Data USA states that in 2022, Forks, WA, had 3.38K residents, a median age of 33.9, and a median household income of $42,080.
Some residents express frustration over how tourism has altered their quiet community and disrupted traditional ways of life. Despite embracing its fame with themed shops and events, many in Forks remain wary of outsiders who overlook its true character. For those unfamiliar with Forks’ history and culture, gaining acceptance can be challenging amid ongoing tensions between tourism and local identity.
Hells Canyon, Idaho/Oregon
Hells Canyon straddles the Idaho-Oregon border and is renowned for being North America’s deepest canyon. This remote area offers breathtaking natural beauty but remains largely inaccessible due to rugged terrain and limited infrastructure. The small communities surrounding Hells Canyon are often wary of outsiders who might disrupt their tranquil way of life or bring unwanted attention to their secluded existence.
Locals value their privacy and tend to be protective of their land and resources amidst growing concerns about environmental preservation. Hells Canyon draws adventurers, but locals often keep their distance from unfamiliar visitors.
Eutaw, Alabama
Eutaw is a small town steeped in history yet marked by economic challenges that have made it less welcoming to outsiders. Once thriving during the cotton boom, Eutaw now faces a 35% poverty rate among its 2,761 residents. Locals often express skepticism toward newcomers who may not understand or appreciate the town’s historical significance or struggles.
The close-knit community values tradition and familiarity over change brought by outside influences. As Eutaw strives for revitalization while holding onto its roots, outsiders may find it challenging to integrate into this historically rich yet economically challenged environment.
Eldorado, Texas
Eldorado is known for being home to members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, which adds an air of mystery and exclusivity to this small town. World Population Review states that Eldorado, Texas, currently has a population of 1,539. The FLDS community’s commitment to polygamy and traditional values creates an environment where outsiders are often viewed with suspicion or disdain.
Local residents typically keep to themselves while engaging in agricultural pursuits and religious practices that define their way of life. For those unfamiliar with Eldorado’s unique culture and beliefs, gaining acceptance can prove difficult amidst tight-knit community dynamics.
Rough and Ready, California
Rough and Ready, California, known for briefly declaring independence, has kept its eccentric charm since the 1849 Gold Rush. Data USA reports that in 2022, Rough and Ready, CA, had 623 residents with a median age of 60.5. Rough and Ready prides itself on preserving its historical character while remaining wary of outside influences that could disrupt its unique identity.
Locals often exhibit a strong sense of pride in their heritage but can be hesitant towards newcomers who don’t share their appreciation for tradition or history. The town hosts events celebrating its past, but residents prefer to keep things local. Despite its history and scenic setting, Rough and Ready requires outsiders to earn locals’ trust.
Bountiful, Utah
Bountiful, just north of Salt Lake City, offers stunning Wasatch views but challenges outsiders unfamiliar with its Mormon culture. Niche reports that Bountiful, a suburb of Salt Lake City, has a population of 45,093. Many locals exhibit a strong sense of identity tied closely to their faith; thus, newcomers may encounter skepticism or judgment if they don’t adhere to similar values or beliefs.
Despite its beauty, Bountiful’s deeply rooted religious traditions can make social integration challenging for outsiders. As Bountiful continues embracing growth while preserving its cultural heritage—outsiders often need patience before being fully accepted into this vibrant yet insular community.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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