Some members here know which state I live in, and the approximate area, but I have never mentioned my town/city name, though have semi described it a bit. I did change my location from my state name to what you see. That sort of limits the number of states.

I only share my real first name with close online friends, and usually spell it differently. Only a couple people I've met online in the past (not here at PC), actually know my real name. As bpcyclist wrote, knowing such information can allow people to learn much much more. It's not difficult to find, believe me. Some anonymity is important.

I know that a member here lives within a somewhat short drive of me. I even offered to get together with that member, if they liked, for coffee at a cafe. The member obviously didn't want to, which I 100% understand. It is for the best we didn't, because if there was an awkwardness it might make one or both of us feel uncomfortable here.