>>538074521
That’s a great question. It’s not that New Yorkers are incapable of small talk—it’s more about the pace, density, and culture of the city. A few reasons people in NYC tend to avoid it:
Time pressure – Life in New York runs fast. People are often rushing to catch a train, get to work, or move through crowded spaces. A “how’s your day going?” might feel like it’s slowing things down.
Density and overstimulation – New Yorkers encounter hundreds of people a day, sometimes just on their commute. If everyone wanted to chit-chat, it would be overwhelming. People develop a kind of “social armor” to maintain focus and sanity.
Efficiency mindset – Directness is part of the culture. Conversations are usually purpose-driven (“what do you need?” “where are you going?”). Small talk can feel unnecessary or even suspicious if it comes from a stranger.
Privacy and boundaries – In a city where everyone lives in close quarters, people value their private bubble. Skipping small talk helps maintain that boundary in public spaces.
Different settings, different norms – At a bar, café, or among friends, New Yorkers do make small talk. It’s just that on the street, subway, or in a store, it’s less expected compared to smaller towns.
It’s less about rudeness and more about context: in New York, efficiency > pleasantries.
Do you want me to compare this to how small talk works in smaller towns or other big cities?
