HomeExchange Report: Americans Trust People Less Than a Decade Ago
New research from HomeExchange and Ipsos BVA reveals that nearly two-thirds of Americans trust others less than they did ten years ago, but are open to rebuilding connections.
A new report from HomeExchange and Ipsos BVA, surveying France, Germany, Italy, and the U.S., finds Americans to be the most optimistic (82% vs. 72% average) but a significant majority (64%) report trusting people less than a decade ago.
While Americans express high optimism, only one in five (20%) say they trust others easily, and 74% wish they could trust more. This disconnect suggests a desire to restore trust, not abandon it. Across all surveyed countries, 88% consider rebuilding human connection urgent.
Notably, 84% of Americans are willing to trust someone met through a platform if certain conditions are met. HomeExchange members facilitated over 11.8 million overnight stays in their homes for peers last year, marking a 25% year-over-year increase.
Trust in the U.S. is highest for family and friends (88%), but significantly lower for public institutions (49%) and large companies (37%). The report emphasizes that trust is built through actions and proof, with 95% of Americans agreeing on this point.
Key conditions for trusting strangers on peer-to-peer platforms include user reviews (43%), identity verification (41%), and the quality of the exchange itself (40%). Reciprocity also plays a crucial role, with 81% stating they would trust someone taking on the same risk.
The study indicates platforms can help bridge this gap, with 86% of Americans willing to trust platform-met individuals under specific conditions. Furthermore, 54% believe platforms foster authentic human connection. Within HomeExchange, 54% feel home swapping helps build trust between strangers, and 75% of users report strengthened connections.