I already mentioned that the Almaty feels more organic and European in city lay out compared to Astana, I feel it also applies to the people. People are also more laid back in Almaty and you will might have more locals try to interact with you.
If you're primarily a english speaker and looking to interact with locals; in Almaty I found a "only speak english bar/cafe" here patrons are "fined" for speaking in Russian to encourage speaking/practicing english. Might be worth checking out you want to get to know locals without needing to speak russian.