I live in the wilds of North Central, Pennsylvania. It's very common for people to say hello or hey! Also, out on the backroads, drivers wave as they pass by one another. Not waving is considered rude and unfriendly. Chances are you will be pegged as a flatlander (not a good thing) if you don't wave. My husband says hello and extends his hand for a handshake when greeting a friend...even if he has seen same person yesterday.

Michelle

PS. Mmario, when I moved to New England, it took me about a year to figure out the hello system up there...I thought there was something wrong with me....it is a much more reserved hello to be sure!