Both Hillbilly and Redneck are focusing on two different types of people. People generally termed both as having the same meanings, but it has to be remembered that although the words are mentioning about almost the similar type of Americans, they have different natures and different life styles. The difference and similarities must be remembered as to understand the meaning of the two terms.
When we talk about the Hillbilly, it means those types of people who live within the American boundaries but are completely not civilized. Although the reference of the state describes a personality, but these people are completely mountaineers and they have their own ways of life that is not possible to describe completely. The term is not new, and these people have such kind of culture that is quite different from the educated people in the city areas. In other words we can say that although these people live in the territory of America, but calling some one as Hillbilly is not considered a decent name. These people obviously, as the meaning tells, live in far off areas, mainly the mountains and villages far away from the country side and they avoid being in contact with the cities. This also must be mentioned that these people are not black, but still the term is equal to an abuse for the White people living in a civilized state of America. This shows that how is the general perception and their livelihood. But as far as their own lives are concerned, these are simple, not wealthy, uneducated, villagers, living the life in the simplest way and enjoying the undemanding and uncomplicated phases of life.
The second term that is mentioned is Redneck. This term is very similar to the first one; even the meaning is very similar to the other. It also mentions the similar type of not so wealthy, uneducated, simple villager at the southern side of the country. But the term, in the same manner, is taken as very unpleasant at some areas. Like the above one, Redneck is also not known to be a good remark. These people are known to be the typical, foolish, backward, drunk farmers. They are called by this name because of the concept that the farmers work in such a state that they turned down their necks while they are busy working, causing their complexions to get darker. But apart from all the criticisms and the general negative perceptions regarding them, they are somehow, hard working and simple people.
The difference between the two terms does exist. Although the meanings and general perceptions are quite same of the both but some other things must also be considered. It is mentioned earlier that the first category people lives in the areas that are usually the mountains and the hilly places, on the other hand the second type of people lives in village areas that are not located on the hilly sides. The today’s Hillbillies are much different from the ones in the past they are focusing on the qualification of the coming generations now, but the rednecks are quite opposite to them in that case. Hillbillies have a bit better way of living in a way, mostly they do not drink and lead peaceful lives, but the Rednecks are again opposite to them in this scenario, they are hyper and sometimes un-respectable.