In this article, we will be taking a look at the 14 Countries with Most Personal Space. You can also take a detailed look at the 5 Countries with Most Personal Space.

In a world where personal space is often a precious commodity, understanding the dynamics of countries with the most generous allowances for personal space offers valuable insights into cultural norms, social behaviors, and even economic patterns. Personal space, defined as the physical distance individuals prefer to keep between themselves and others, varies significantly across different cultures and societies.

The concept of personal space is deeply intertwined with cultural norms and societal values. In countries where personal space is highly valued, people tend to maintain a greater physical distance from others in social interactions. This preference reflects a cultural emphasis on autonomy, privacy, and mutual respect. Conversely, in cultures where personal space is less prioritized, people may feel more comfortable with closer proximity during interactions.

The allocation of personal space can also influence economic behavior and consumption patterns within a country. In cultures where personal space is highly valued, people may be more inclined to spend leisure time in spacious public areas, such as parks or gardens, rather than crowded urban spaces. This preference for open, uncluttered environments may also extend to recreational activities, with outdoor pursuits such as hiking or camping being particularly popular. Research from the Outdoor Industry Association shows that outdoor recreation contributes significantly to the economy, with outdoor recreation generating $887 billion in consumer spending in the United States annually.

Moreover, research tells that the allocation of personal space can have implications for economic behaviors and consumer preferences within a country. For instance, in countries where personal space is highly valued, people may prefer spacious living accommodations, leading to a higher demand for larger homes or apartments. This increased demand can stimulate the real estate market and drive property prices higher. Additionally, businesses in these countries may need to consider personal space preferences when designing retail spaces, ensuring that customers feel comfortable and respected during their shopping experiences.

For example, Real estate prices tend to be higher in countries where personal space is highly valued. The average price per square meter of an apartment in the US is $5,428, reflecting the demand for spacious living accommodations. Similarly, luxury brands also often perform well in countries with a strong emphasis on personal space. 

A real estate investment trust, Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR), owns or has investments in over 80,000 apartment units across the United States. Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR) already has consolidated presence in New York, Boston and Southern California, among other places, and its further expanding in cities like Denver, Dallas and Austin. Equity Residential reported a revenue of $2.87 billion for 2023, having grown 5.07% on an year-over-year basis.

Baron Real Estate Fund had the following to say about Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR) in their Q4, 2023 investor letter:

“In the most recent quarter, we re-acquired shares in Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR), the largest U.S. multi-family REIT. The company has assembled an excellent portfolio of Class A apartment buildings located in high barrier-to-entry coastal markets with favorable long-term demographic trends and muted overall supply growth. We believe the company is also well positioned to benefit from the affordability advantages of renting versus home ownership, annual leases that provide the potential for partial inflation protection, and its low levered balance sheet, which positions the company to take advantage of acquisition opportunities.

In our opinion, Equity Residential’s shares are attractively valued relative to private market values and the company owns and operates excellent and relevant real estate that should perform well, long term.”

Methodology

To shortlist the 20 Countries with Most Personal Space, we consulted the data from a couple of websites to gain information on countries with most personal space and to learn about the area in centimeters that people require for their personal space. We checked out sources like CEO world to gather information on this. The list of the 20 Countries with Most Personal Space has been ranked in ascending order – from countries with lesser space in centimeters to most personal space measured in centimeters.

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14. Canada

Preferred Personal Space: 99.01

Canada, known for its natural beauty, multiculturalism, and inclusivity, upholds a cultural preference for personal space, with a preferred distance of 99.01 centimeters. Canadians value their privacy and tend to maintain a respectful distance from others in social interactions. From friendly gatherings to outdoor adventures, Canadians navigate social interactions with a sense of consideration and inclusivity.

13. Italy

Preferred Personal Space: 99.13

Italy has a preferred distance of 99.13 centimeters. This preference reflects a cultural emphasis on individual autonomy and mutual respect. From family gatherings to leisurely strolls, Italians uphold this cultural norm with warmth and grace, fostering positive social dynamics and contributing to a sense of community and belonging within diverse Italian regions.

12. France

Preferred Personal Space: 99.16

French society values individual autonomy and respects the physical boundaries of others, whether in bustling cafes or quaint villages. It is ranked 15th on our list of countries with the most personal space. 

11. United Kingdom

Preferred Personal Space: 99.4

The United Kingdom, comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, upholds a cultural preference for personal space, with a preferred distance of 99.4 centimeters. Despite its densely populated cities, Britons value their privacy. 

10. Germany

Preferred Personal Space: 114.8

Germany, situated in Central Europe, is renowned for its efficiency, innovation, and cultural inclination towards personal space, with a preferred distance of 114.8 centimeters. The German preference for personal space owes it to the broader western values of individualism and privacy. 

9. Hong Kong

Preferred Personal Space: 116

Hong Kong is celebrated for its dynamic culture, impressive skyline, and a cultural inclination towards personal space, with a preferred distance of 116 centimeters. In Hong Kong society, respecting personal boundaries is considered essential.

8. Colombia

Preferred Personal Space: 117

Colombia, situated in South America, has a preferred distance of 117 centimeters. In Colombian society, respecting personal boundaries is considered fundamental, reflecting values of dignity, autonomy, and mutual respect. Whether in bustling cities or remote villages, Colombians maintain a respectful distance from others in social interactions, allowing individuals to feel comfortable and secure.

7. Estonia

Preferred Personal Space: 118

Estonia, located in Northern Europe, is known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and a cultural inclination towards personal space, with a preferred distance of 118 centimeters, putting it at the 7th spot in our list of countries that prefer personal space. 

6. Pakistan

Preferred Personal Space: 119

Pakistan, situated in South Asia, boasts a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and a preference for ample personal space, with a preferred distance of 119 centimeters. In Pakistani society, respecting personal boundaries is deeply ingrained, reflecting values of honor, dignity, and mutual respect. This is especially true in Northern Pakistan.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Countries with Most Personal Space.

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Disclosure: none. 14 Countries with Most Personal Space is originally published on Insider Monkey.