Numerous individuals harbor resentment over Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's discord with their Montecito neighbors.
Despite Prince Charles' youngest son asserting in a recent interview that the community in California embraced them warmly, locals contend that the couple has been notably absent.
Having surprised the world by relinquishing their royal duties in early 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex settled in a $14 million mansion in the affluent Montecito neighborhood of Santa Barbara. Over a year and a half later, reports suggest that many neighbors are disgruntled, asserting that the couple has failed to integrate into the community.
British media highlights the rarity of Harry and Meghan's public appearances in their neighborhood and Santa Barbara. Despite residing there since July 2020, the couple has seemingly avoided societal engagements. Montecito, known for its exclusive and private atmosphere, has become home to celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Ellen DeGeneres, drawn to its paparazzi-free environment.
Curiously, Prince Harry recently expressed appreciation for being "received with open arms" in Santa Barbara during an interview with the Today Show on NBC. However, this statement appeared to bewilder North American neighbors, given the couple's low profile.
According to Richard Mineards, a British columnist for the Montecito Journal, Harry and Meghan failed to introduce themselves to the locals since their discreet arrival. The community feels overlooked, with Mineards stating, "Harry and Meghan didn't become part of the community, and I think a lot of people are really angry about that."
Neighbors cite examples of the couple's limited social engagement, such as never visiting a famous British-style bar or facing challenges attempting to buy hamburgers locally. However, there are expectations that Prince Harry might integrate more into the community by joining the local polo team, Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club, a move seen as a significant step.
Despite ongoing disagreements, rumors circulate about the couple considering a move within or near Montecito, signaling potential changes in their living arrangements with their two children, Archie and Lilibeth.
