A Ranking of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially those from the countryside) could New York City may be overwhelming at first, but if you give it time, you'll find that each borough's neighborhoods have a sense of community and that the city itself is a melting pot of many cultures. But don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), the locals will treat you well. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

While it's true that it only takes about 90 minutes to drive across the entire state of Delaware, that doesn't exactly make it a welcoming neighbor. Is it that our readers' perception of Delaware as unwelcoming stems from the state's (possibly exaggerated) image as dull? To make matters worse, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

In general, locals in MA aren't rude to tourists, but their indifference can be wearing. Being uninterested in other people is not exactly a quality that makes Massachusetts a leader among the friendliest states in America. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, can take years.

The attitude of Jersey residents can come across as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case New Jersey residents are notoriously forthright. At least the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will pump your gas for you.

Although Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, when it comes to its residents, things are quite different. Though Seattleites don't come across as rude, they do give off a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, earning the city its nickname, "Seattle freeze." Perhaps the constant downpours are to blame.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Nevada, home of Sin City, is a state of extremes. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. Locals in Nevada, on the whole, are not particularly willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida certainly has its work cut out for it if Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least welcoming cities in the United States. Cities like Orlando, with their many tourist-friendly initiatives, are doing a lot to boost the state's reputation, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go.

There's a good chance that anyone who wasn't raised in Rhode Island would always feel like an outsider there. According to Big 7 Travel readers, Rhode Islanders don't rate very high on the "friendliness scale." Local cashiers are less likely to greet you with a smile in larger cities, but they may do so in smaller ones.

Even though many people in California take pride in their reputation as being welcoming, our readers tend to disagree. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. Most people tend to take it easier in smaller towns.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. To be more precise, it's a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut tend to be friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and polite demeanor. However, that's not the case Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. It's not the most culturally rich state, but people still manage to have fun and get together at open mike nights and other community events.

While Alaskans may feel cut off from the rest of the world, the state's reliance on tourism means they'll go out of their way to make visitors feel at home. Even the native Alaskans were likely newcomers at some point, so most locals here understand what it's like to start over in a strange place. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

Montanans are among the friendliest people you'll ever meet. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. People are nice, but you won't be invited to their houses for tea. There is friendly competition between the cities, with a warm welcome extended to visitors.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. While Washington, D.C., may be perceived by some as conservative and wary, the city is actually a vibrant cultural hub where people of all backgrounds and beliefs can feel safe expressing themselves. C and other major urban centers make it a great place to live.

It's simple to meet new people and form friendships in Vermont because its residents are warm and welcoming. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. Those in small towns in Vermont may be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

The people who call North Carolina home are known for their politeness, willingness to aid strangers, and warm reception of guests. Anyone can be approached with a "hi" in almost any public place, be it a Walmart, a parking lot, or even while waiting at a red light. Highlighting the state's diversity is the fact that its residents hail from every region of the United States.

Famously warm and welcoming, Utahns will make you feel right at home. Salt Lake City is one of the most sociable and exciting places to live in the United States, and it is also recognized as one of the most welcoming cities for the LGBTQ community.

It seems that our readers share our opinion that Maine is a great place to call home because of its low crime rate and welcoming locals. Mainers, in contrast to their New England contemporaries, are known for being friendly and outgoing. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

Locals in West Virginia are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, making it one of the best places to visit in the United States. An easygoing lifestyle creates a friendly environment here. There is a tight-knit sense of community in West Virginia because the state is essentially walled off from the rest of the country by mountains.

Iowans are known for their friendliness and kindness, evidenced by the frequent use of "howdy" and "how are you" in everyday interactions with strangers. There is a genuine sense of community, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

Despite the state's reputation for friendliness, some major cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor can be extremely difficult to connect with. People here have a good sense of humor, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving and friendly atmosphere. In a Baltimore bar, you are sure to meet some of your new best friends for life.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest, with its friendly locals, strong sense of community, and positive outlook. People in Green Bay are exceptionally pleasant to be around because it is one of the happiest cities in America. Possibly the Packers are involved.

This may be one of the least-visited states in the United States, but that has nothing to do with the quality of its residents. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand with no strings attached. According to your ratings, the community spirit in this state is very strong.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. It may take some time to earn acceptance into Portland's hipster scene, but I promise it's worth it. It also has the highest percentage of pet-friendly households in the United States.

The state of Mississippi is absolutely lovely, full of warm hospitality and delicious Southern cuisine. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors from elsewhere. Once you stop trying to convince them that life is better "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like you always belonged there.

People in Missouri will tell you their entire life story before you’ve even had the chance to say ‘hello’ They are genuine in their friendliness, and they show genuine interest in the perspectives of total strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you treat them well. Stick to that golden rule and you’ll see that Alabama is one of the friendliest states in America Some random person will hold the door open for you, and others will offer to help you carry your groceries out to your car.

You can find progressive, forward-thinking communities full of involved and welcoming people all over South Dakota. People will strike up conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, even in the biggest cities. The residents of this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern Nice."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are friendly. People here are friendly regardless of whether you were born and raised here or are just passing through. You'll want to make a quick decision to relocate to Kentucky because of the unique warmth of its people.

Even though Philadelphia and Pittsburgh might not be the first cities that come to mind when you think of "friendly," that is exactly what they are. The phrase "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost A friendly local will likely assist you.

In most of New Mexico's communities, you'll find warm and welcoming locals. It's chill and full of different cultures. In addition, two New Mexico cities were among the 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. So there you have it.

Home to just 10 people Population of 3 million, this southern state is a fascinating blend of rural and urban areas, and its residents are known for their warm hospitality. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

People from all over the country will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest you'll meet, and our readers agree. Really, the locals are warm and welcoming, and not in a stalkerish way. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Located in the middle of the United States, Illinois is home to welcoming people. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. Also, 19 of the safest cities in the United States can be found in Illinois, making it a great state for tourists.

Among the states in the United States, Nebraska is home to some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. A sense of community characterized by people helping one another can be found virtually anywhere you look. If you can master the "one finger" wave while driving, you'll blend in like a native.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. Despite the state's ethnic diversity, Louisiana is home to some of the most welcoming and fun people in the United States.

The good manners and genuine friendliness of Ohioans are legendary throughout the Midwest. Locals are friendly and willing to show visitors their favorite spots for eating and drinking. It's also fantastic for families, as there are many events geared specifically toward children.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. The "Aloha Spirit" is a trademark of Hawaii. It must be good for the spirit to live in paradise, because everyone you meet will greet you with a friendly smile.

For good reason, Oklahoma is known as "The Big Friendly," and its capital city bears the same moniker. Locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. And they're just as welcoming to outsiders.

Visitors from other states may be taken aback by the famous friendliness of Kansans, so they should be ready to strike up conversations with complete strangers. The friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

Having some of the friendliest people in the world, Colorado is a great place to visit thanks to its progressive culture. It's great for taking the kids, has a ton of interesting history, and will soon have you feeling like a native. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

Indiana residents take great pride in their famously generous "Hoosier hospitality," which is known worldwide. The locals have an excellent sense of humor and are generally pleasant to be around. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana is so much more than a "fly over" state.

Though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make it a lively and exciting destination. Even in large cities, it is not unusual for a stranger to offer to help you with something as simple as getting your car unstuck from the snow or carrying your groceries. You should just leave the car unlocked. The odds are good that it will arrive undamaged.

In Texas, the locals are always upbeat and ready with a "Howdy." Its reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has helped make it one of the friendliest states in the United States. The locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

The people of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which makes the state a great vacation destination. South Carolina has the famous warmth and generosity of the other Southern states.

Tennessee is a great example of classic Southern hospitality, with friendly locals who are always eager to show visitors around. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

Finally, the winner among the most welcoming U.S. states is Topping the list is Minnesota, whose residents stand out for their warmth and hospitality. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the Twin Cities and surrounding areas have an inviting, friendly vibe that's hard to find elsewhere.