Here's my observation. The more urban the setting, the less likely you are to share conversation. I work in the city, live in the suburbs and have a second home in the country. In the city people rarely make eye contact and when speaking to strangers, are very guarded. At home, in the 'burbs, folks are much more likely to say hello on the street and share a little small talk. In the small town where I relax, going to the hardware store can be a half day event due to the friendliness on the street. I've gone to buy some nails and wound up in the cafe sharing thoughts and coffee with acquaintences for hours.

It's a function of security , I think. The safer and more relaxed we are, the more open we are to others.