Although Germans generally get along well with their neighbors, they often spend very little time interacting with them. This finding, reported by RTL and ntv, is based on a Forsa survey.
The survey indicates that 70 percent of respondents assess their relationship with their neighbors as good or very good. Only a small three percent report a poor relationship. However, a significant concern is that 39 percent of people stated they do not meet people from their neighborhood at all for activities or visits. Furthermore, another 28 percent only do so less than once a month.
Noteworthy differences emerge when comparing rural and urban areas. In rural regions, 73 percent describe their relationship with neighbors as good, compared to 68 percent in cities. Neighborhood contact is also more frequent in the countryside. In urban areas, nearly one in two people (48 percent) never meet their neighbors, while this figure is closer to 31 percent in rural areas. Moreover, people in rural regions are more likely to actively help their neighbors with tasks such as watering plants, grocery shopping, or minor repairs.
Regarding what makes a good neighbor, respondents emphasized consideration and politeness above all else. A substantial 95 percent considered respectful conduct or simply greeting neighbors to be important. In contrast, joint celebrations or outings mattered to only 28 percent. According to the survey, about one in four people had experienced a dispute with a neighbor at some point.
National Neighborhood Day is observed on May 29th. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier initiated the day nine years ago, coinciding with the anniversary of the Basic Law on May 23rd. This day is implemented in cooperation with the German Foundation for Commitment and Volunteer Work (DSEE). The survey data was collected from 1,003 respondents between May 26th and 27th, 2026.
