The idea for Naughty Neighbors came to its founder, Bruce Friede, while he was working at Hustler. He noticed that many readers were sending in their own personal stories about sexy encounters with their neighbors, which inspired him to create a new publication dedicated solely to these tales. Friede began soliciting submissions from readers through classified ads in adult magazines like Screw and High Society, promising anonymity and possibly publication in return for their stories. The response was overwhelming, and the magazine quickly gained popularity among both readers and writers alike. One contributor recalls that "Naughty Neighbors felt like it belonged to us," emphasizing how much control they had over the content. Another writer described it as "a safe space where people could explore their fantasies without judgment."
Naughty Neighbors published both original works and reworked versions of older pieces. It also featured photos sent in by readers, some of whom posed for the camera themselves or took pictures of their partners. These images added another layer of realism to the already intimate and vulnerable stories shared. Readers often wrote in to ask if certain scenarios could be depicted more graphically, leading to the creation of comics based on reader-submitted storylines. This collaborative approach between reader and creator made Naughty Neighbors feel like an interactive community rather than just a magazine.
Aside from the obvious erotic appeal, Naughty Neighbors provided a valuable platform for exploring sexual desires and taboos. Many readers found solace in sharing their experiences with others who understood them, while writers were able to express themselves creatively and receive feedback from a supportive audience. The magazine's popularity led to spin-offs such as Naughty Roommates and Naughty Dorm Mates, which focused on other close relationships. However, the success of these offshoots ultimately contributed to the downfall of the original publication. As the internet became more accessible, people began sharing their stories online instead of through classified ads, and many readers lost interest in waiting weeks for their work to be published in print.
Despite its decline, Naughty Neighbors remains an important part of adult entertainment history. Its impact can still be seen today in publications that prioritize reader submissions over studio content, such as Penthouse Letters and True Confessions. The magazine helped establish a new genre of sex writing that was personal, relatable, and engaging for both authors and readers alike. It also highlighted the power of storytelling and collaboration in creating something truly unique. As one writer put it, "Naughty Neighbors was about connecting with strangers who felt like family."