Why is it so hard to make friends here?

For context I’m from an INCREDIBLY friendly nearby rural area, people smile and wave at strangers, and strike up conversations often.

Also for context I am 28M and HEAVY on the spectrum ✨ (High masking autism/adhd)

I’m not sure what exactly is in the water around here but it’s almost like everyone is on guard 24/7. Nobody smiles or waves even in reply, I’ve tried the apps, I’ve tried the bars, I’ve tried the hobby places I frequent, every interaction just feels temporary, like almost nobody is interested in forming any types of meaningful relationships past their own usual group of friends.

Asheville has slowly sucked the friendly local out of me, I’ve always been perceived as weird by regular people but I’ve not felt this dehumanized in a long time…

Is this experience true for anyone else?