Madison Tops 'Good Neighbor' City Rankings for 2026

What makes a great neighbor? According to thousands of Americans, it's not borrowing sugar or hosting block parties. It's simply respecting boundaries and giving people their space.

Neighbors Bank surveyed residents across the country and found that 56% ranked "respects boundaries and privacy" as the most important neighbor quality. That beat out traditional favorites like being friendly and welcoming, which only 43% chose as their top priority.

The bank then ranked America's 100 largest metro areas on their "good neighbor" vibes. Madison, Wisconsin, claimed the top spot with a score of 87 out of 100. The rankings considered not just neighbor friendliness, but also safety, cleanliness, affordability, walkability, and access to everyday necessities.

Pennsylvania showed strong results with both Allentown and Harrisburg tying for second place at 84 points each. Minneapolis and Boston rounded out the top five, both scoring 83. Des Moines, Worcester, and Boise all tied at 82, showing that good neighbors exist across different regions and city sizes.

The study reveals an interesting shift in American priorities. While 47% still value quiet and considerate neighbors, and 43% appreciate those who look out for one another, the emphasis on personal space reflects changing attitudes about community living.

Why This Inspires

This ranking shows that being a good neighbor doesn't require grand gestures or constant interaction. Sometimes the kindest thing we can do is recognize when someone needs privacy and space. Cities that foster this respectful culture while still maintaining safety and community resources prove that we can balance independence with connection. The geographic diversity of the top ten cities demonstrates that neighborly respect transcends regional stereotypes and exists everywhere from Wisconsin to Florida to Idaho.

The results suggest Americans are redefining community in healthier, more sustainable ways.