As Americans head to the polls, a new report by Redfin highlights the depth of political divisions in communities across the country. According to a survey conducted by Ipsos in September 2024, 18.7% of Americans reported having a political disagreement with a neighbour over the past year.
The survey, which included 1,802 participants aged 18 to 65, found that men were significantly more likely to engage in such disputes, with 27.1% reporting political disagreements compared to just 13.4% of women.
The report, which was published in The World Property Journal, revealed that political affiliation influenced the likelihood of conflicts.
Among Trump supporters, 23.1% said they had argued with neighbours over politics, while 19.5% of those planning to vote for Kamala Harris reported similar disagreements. Younger generations were more prone to such disputes, with 26.4% of Gen Z respondents and 23.5% of millennials reporting conflicts, compared to 14.3% of Gen X’s and 13.6% of baby boomers.
Homeowners were more likely to experience political disputes than renters, with 20.5% of homeowners reporting conflicts compared to 16.3% of renters.
The survey also found that racial issues were a significant source of tension, with 11.9% of respondents admitting to disagreements with neighbours over these topics. Men (15.3%) were more likely to report such conflicts than women (9.5%), and Gen Z’s led generational engagement at 20.1%.
When it comes to political discussions, nearly a third (30.4%) of respondents said they regularly talk politics with their neighbours. Men were again more inclined to engage (40.9%) compared to women (24%).
Homeowners (35.5%) discussed politics more often than renters (25.8%), while millennials (40.3%) and Gen Zers (38.9%) were the most active participants in these conversations.
