Forget the stereotype: New Yorkers are actually nice
Contrary to popular belief, my days in the concrete jungle have challenged the notion with unexpected smiles, helpful strangers, and a surprising amount of shared dog appreciation.
One of the first things you hear about New York City, often before you even set foot here, is the supposed rudeness of its residents. You are told to picture a city full of hurried, impatient people who will knock you over to get ahead and wouldn't dream of making eye contact, let alone offering a friendly word.
This is not what I've seen and experienced. Contrary to popular belief, I've found New Yorkers to be incredibly friendly. But, as I've learned, context is key.
I can understand where the 'rude' label might stem from. In a city with over eight million people packed into a relatively small space, everyone is on a mission, navigating from point A to point B with a lot on their minds. There's a palpable sense of everyone being in their own bubble, focused on their own day, which might come across as standoffish to an outsider. But, as I've discovered, this is just a part of the story.
What I've learned is that this 'bubble' isn't impenetrable. If a situation arises on the street – like someone dropping groceries or tripping on the street – it's incredible how quickly that 'bubble' bursts. People will instantly snap out of their own worlds to lend a hand, pick things up, or ensure the person is okay. Once the issue is resolved, people seamlessly return to their own little world and continue their day. It's not rudeness but more like efficiency and a collective understanding of getting things done.
And then there's the dog love, which adds a whole new layer to the city. Our small doggo, Milhouse, has shown us that dogs are this city's furry ambassadors of friendliness. Adults and kids alike stop us on the street daily to ask if they can pet him. These aren't quick, obligatory pats, either—people genuinely enjoy the interaction.
Even more heartwarming is our experience on the subway with Milhouse. It has become common for fellow passengers to excitedly pull out their phones and show us pictures of their beloved pets. This instant connection, a shared love for our furry companions, transcends the usual subway stoicism.
Beyond the casual encounters on the street and underground, I've also found many employees in shops and restaurants to be genuinely lovely when you take a moment to engage with them.
Sure, if you're trying to have a deep conversation with someone working a hot dog stand in the middle of Times Square at lunchtime, you might not get the most attentive service. But in most everyday interactions, a simple "hello" or a brief chat is often met with a friendly response.
So, while the narrative of the rude New Yorker persists, my experience paints a different picture. It's less about rudeness and more about the practicalities of navigating a densely populated and fast-paced environment punctuated by genuine moments of connection and kindness.
If anything, it can be the visitors — whether businesspeople, tourists, or something else — where you'll find some rudeness. But that's for another entry.