A near neighbour is better than a far-dwelling kinsman

Similar English and Irish sayings:

The beggar ennobled does not know his own kinsman The beggar ennobled does not know his own kinsman
He dwell far from neighbours, who is fain to praise himself He dwell far from neighbours, who is fain to praise himself
All is well with him who is beloved of his neighbours All is well with him who is beloved of his neighbours

Proverbs and English sayings