Mary Ellen Collins and her husband relocated from Florida to Annapolis 17 months ago, hoping to find a vibrant community and a more temperate climate. Despite moving to a large condo complex, they discovered that forging connections with their neighbors was far more challenging than anticipated.
Seeking a Fresh Start in Annapolis
The couple decided to leave behind the humidity and hurricanes of Florida for the historic charm and sailing culture of Annapolis. They were drawn to the city’s rich arts scene and proximity to educational institutions, believing it would provide a perfect backdrop for their new lifestyle. Their choice was influenced by fond memories of living in Boston, which Annapolis reminded them of, given its waterfront and walkable downtown.
After evaluating options along the coast of North Carolina, they settled on a condominium within a beautifully landscaped complex. The location was ideal, with easy access to parks and downtown amenities. Initially, they were optimistic about meeting fellow residents, buoyed by the presence of 78 other condos in the building. Unfortunately, their expectations did not align with reality.
The Challenge of Building Connections
Upon their arrival, Collins noted an unsettling silence in the building, reminiscent of a scene from “The Twilight Zone.” Days would pass without encountering any neighbors, save for brief exchanges with the concierge. Unlike their previous community in St. Petersburg, where new arrivals were welcomed with friendly gestures, Annapolis offered little in the way of neighborly introductions.
“We figured finding a community would be relatively easy. We were wrong,” Collins reflected.
In the rare instances when they did meet other residents, conversations were often brief and did not lead to further interactions. One neighbor did invite them for coffee with others, but such gatherings did not become a regular occurrence. Despite their efforts to connect, many residents conveyed a preference for privacy rather than community involvement.
Some residents even described the atmosphere of the complex as “insular,” highlighting a common sentiment among newcomers. Many occupants own second homes, leading to a transient atmosphere that discourages deep-rooted relationships within the building and the city.
Contrasting Experiences in St. Petersburg
Collins reminisced about their previous neighborhood in St. Petersburg, Florida, which had a population of around 250,000. There, they enjoyed a strong sense of community, exchanging favors and keys, and participating in local celebrations. In stark contrast, Annapolis, with its significantly smaller population of 40,000, does not seem to offer the same welcoming spirit, according to some locals.
One resident humorously remarked, “Oh, you have to live here for 30 years before you’re accepted,” capturing a sentiment that resonates with many newcomers. This cultural difference has left Collins and her husband feeling somewhat isolated, despite their initial excitement about their new home.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Despite the difficulties in establishing connections, Collins acknowledges that their decision to move has had its benefits. They have access to multiple sailing clubs, arts initiatives, and events at nearby St. Johns College. They have adapted to the winter climate, although it was not part of their original plan.
The disappointing realization is that their condo complex has become more of a place to sleep than a community. While a few friendly faces have emerged, the majority of residents seem intent on maintaining their privacy. Building a sense of community has proved to be a more arduous process than it was in St. Petersburg.
As they reflect on their decision, Collins admits that it is still unclear whether moving to Annapolis was the right choice. The couple remains committed to finding their place within the community, even if it requires more time and effort than they had initially expected.
