locals
n. countable B1 Intermediate US //ˈɫoʊkəɫz// UK //lˈəʊkəlz// lo·cals
n. the people who live in a specific small area or town. You usually use this word to talk about the residents of a place you are visiting.
n. the inhabitants of a particular area or neighbourhood. Often used in the plural to distinguish residents from tourists or outsiders.
The locals are very friendly to visitors.
If you want to find the best food in town, you should ask the locals where they eat.
While the resort was designed for international tourists, the nearby market remains a popular gathering spot for the locals to trade fresh produce and handmade goods.
Usage
Almost always used in the plural form ('the locals') when referring to a group of people.