Since their move to Montecito, California, in June 2020, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have remained in the public eye, though not always for reasons they might have hoped.
This idyllic neighborhood, known for its affluent residents and peaceful surroundings, has not turned out to be the quiet retreat they may have envisioned. Instead, their presence has sparked controversy and discontent, drawing scrutiny from both local residents and the media. Their relocation followed their highly publicized decision to step down as senior working members of the British royal family, marking a pivotal shift in their lives.
Seeking independence from royal duties and the relentless public spotlight, they hoped to carve out a new path. However, their fresh start in California has not been without its challenges. Rather than escaping criticism, the couple has found themselves at the center of ongoing disputes, with some neighbors voicing concerns over their behavior and lifestyle choices.
One of the primary points of contention has been Meghan's demeanor. In interviews, including one with the Daily Express, several residents expressed frustration over the way the couple interacts with the community. One neighbor went so far as to suggest that many in the area eagerly await Meghan’s departure, claiming that she and Harry’s presence has disrupted the neighborhood’s harmony. Their celebrity status, rather than blending into the upscale community, appears to have introduced a level of tension that some locals find unwelcome.
The situation escalated when a Montecito resident named Kimberly shared a surprising revelation on social media. She posted a photograph of a list of alleged rules reportedly displayed on the entrance of the couple’s lavish mansion. The list contained strict guidelines for interacting with Meghan and Harry, igniting a wave of online reactions. The post quickly gained attention, leading many to question whether the couple had truly imposed such restrictions on their neighbors.
Among the reported rules were prohibitions that many found excessive. Allegedly, neighbors were forbidden from initiating conversations with the couple, petting their dogs, or leaving notes for them. The rules also stated that interactions should only occur if Meghan and Harry initiated them, reinforcing a sense of exclusivity that some found off-putting. Furthermore, locals were reportedly discouraged from engaging with the couple’s children, Archie and Lilibet, and even restricted from walking their pets near the property or placing anything in their mailbox.
Kimberly’s post generated significant backlash, with many criticizing what they perceived as Meghan’s aloofness. Although the post was deleted after just 30 minutes, its contents continued to circulate, fueling discussions among royal watchers and skeptics alike. Interviews with other Montecito residents revealed a pattern of dissatisfaction with the couple’s lifestyle, with complaints ranging from disturbances caused by their dogs to what some viewed as an imposition of unwarranted restrictions on the community.
The situation has reportedly reached the point where some neighbors have taken their grievances to local authorities. This level of discontent suggests a deeper conflict at play—one that stems not just from Meghan and Harry’s celebrity status but also from the impact of having high-profile figures in an otherwise private enclave. Additionally, some locals believe that Meghan exerts a strong influence over Harry, leading to further speculation and criticism. One neighbor candidly remarked, “I think she has more control over Harry than he does over her,” a sentiment that has fueled ongoing public scrutiny of their relationship dynamic.
Beyond their interactions with neighbors, their perceived standing within the royal family has also drawn attention. Many believe that tensions between Meghan and Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, have contributed to the ongoing drama surrounding the Sussexes. Some residents have speculated that Meghan’s desire to outshine Kate has only exacerbated divisions, adding yet another layer to the complex narrative surrounding the couple.
Despite initial efforts from some community members to welcome them—such as extending invitations to events and offering insights into Montecito’s rich history—reports suggest that Meghan and Harry have shown little interest in integrating with their neighbors. This perceived aloofness has only furthered the sense of detachment, leaving many in the community with mixed feelings about their presence in the otherwise serene neighborhood.
