---
title: America’s Top Five Most Socially Connected Counties
description: Discover the top 5 US counties with the strongest social connections. Learn how these standout regions create community bonds to drive resilience, and civic engagement.
---

[Polco News & Knowledge ](https://blog.polco.us)

# [America’s Top Five Most Socially Connected Counties](https://blog.polco.us/top-five-socially-connected-counties)

 Written by [Polco](https://blog.polco.us/author/polco) | October 11, 2024

As isolation continues to define modern times, strong community connections become more important for local government leaders to focus on. New research proves that social connection is a key driver of overall community success. 

“Social connection not only contributes to individual well-being, it builds stronger communities. When residents are connected and share a sense of belonging, they are more likely to cooperate and work together to address community issues,” said [Erin Caldwell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-caldwell-9887832a/), Director of Research at Polco.

The many benefits of social connections include greater community resilience, faster recovery from crises, stronger economic activity, more civic participation, better social support, a higher sense of belonging, and much more. 

Caldwell’s recent study of the [Government Performance Action & Learning (GPAL)](https://info.polco.us/gpal-government-performance-action-learning) database, which curates data from the nation’s most trusted public sources, reveals which US counties have the strongest community ties. 

## Here is a look at the top five US counties with the strongest community bonds.

1. [**Washtenaw County, Michigan**](https://www.washtenaw.org/): With a strong presence of non-profit organizations and vibrant neighborhood associations, Washtenaw County fosters a deep sense of connectedness through local events, volunteerism, and active civic engagement.

2. [**Boulder County, Colorado**](https://bouldercounty.gov/): Boulder County is renowned for its tight-knit neighborhoods, driven by shared values of sustainability, wellness, and outdoor activities.

**3.** [**Mercer County, Pennsylvania**](https://www.mercercountypa.gov/): Residents’ neighborliness and active participation in local events strengthen connections in Mercer County. A network of civic groups, churches, and service organizations also supports community ties.

**4. **[**Ontario County, New York**](https://ontariocountyny.gov/): Ontario County's rich local history and culture bolster its sense of community. Numerous festivals, farmers' markets, and volunteer groups regularly bring residents together.

**5. **[**Johnson County, Kansas**](https://www.jocogov.org/): Johnson County enjoys high community involvement through well-organized neighborhood associations, public events, recreational opportunities, and cultural activities. Together, these factors drive lasting social bonds.

## How Connected Is Your Community? 

With Polco, you can easily find out how your community compares to the nation for key factors such as inclusivity, engagement, and many more. [**Start a Free Trial**](https://polco.us/n/admin/registration)

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- [Data Shows How Types of Engagement Can Predict Community Satisfaction](https://blog.polco.us/data-shows-engagement-predict-community-satisfaction)

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