A Ranking of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first, locals (especially upstate) might come across as a little brusque. 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. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

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

Although the state of Delaware is relatively compact (it takes only about 90 minutes to drive from one end to the other), its size does not necessarily equate to neighborliness. Why do some of our readers view Delaware negatively? Is it because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? Sad to say, it's one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

The people of Massachusetts are not necessarily rude, but their general apathy toward visitors can be wearing. Massachusetts isn't exactly one of the friendliest states in America if its residents are known for ignoring each other. Becoming a full-fledged Bostonian, as opposed to a temporary resident, can take years of hard work.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case The people of New Jersey are notorious for being very forthright. If nothing else, 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. Seattleites aren't outright unfriendly, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe. It could be the precipitation, I suppose.

The people of New Hampshire are fiercely proud of their state and its beauty. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. Stubborn locals and a low population density make it difficult to make friends in this area.

Nevada, the site of the infamous Sin City, is a state of striking contrasts. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. People in Nevada generally aren't very willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

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

The majority of Rhode Islanders were not born and raised there, so anyone who moves there from another state is likely to be treated as an oddity. When asked to rate Rhode Islanders on a "friendly scale," Big 7 Travel readers didn't give them high marks. Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

Readers of this publication disagree with the widespread belief that Californians are particularly friendly. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. The pace of life is slower in smaller towns.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough for the most part. While waiting in line, you might strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't count on anyone breaking out in a full-blown smile. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

The people of Connecticut are not only friendly, but also polite, reserved, and nice. It's not that Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. In spite of the state's lack of cultural vitality, its residents find common ground at open mike nights and other community gatherings.

While Alaska is in the middle of nowhere, its residents are more than happy to open their arms to visitors because the tourism industry is so important to the state's economy. Most people in this area, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived here at some point. Or they'll simply ignore you, which isn't rude.

You won't believe how welcoming and friendly everyone in Montana is. Despite its vastness, the whole state feels more like a large village. No one will invite you over for tea, but they're still a nice person. The townspeople joke around and treat visitors with friendliness.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C other major cities make it a great place to live

The people of Vermont are known for their warm and welcoming demeanor, making it simple to strike up conversations with complete strangers. Due to the abundance of tourists, the locals are extremely friendly and willing to assist with any needs. People in Vermont's smaller communities may take some time to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

Residents of North Carolina are known for their polite demeanor, willingness to aid strangers, and warm reception of guests. People will greet you with a "hi" practically anywhere: the grocery store, the parking lot, the stoplight. One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you'll quickly feel at home here. Salt Lake City is one of the most welcoming large cities in the United States for the LGBTQ community, and it also has a wonderful social scene.

Readers seem to agree that Maine is a good place to call home because of its low crime rate and welcoming population. New Englanders have a reputation for being withdrawn and reserved, but Mainers are friendly and outgoing. This is something you'll see the moment you step foot in this location.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. Living here is relaxed, which creates a friendly environment. A tight-knit sense of community exists in West Virginia because the state is largely isolated from the rest of the country by mountains.

People in Iowa are known for being friendly and helpful, as 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 in this region are known for their laid-back demeanor, good sense of humor, and Midwestern politeness.

Maryland has a large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states. It's a lively and social place to spend some time because it welcomes visitors from all over the world. The local bar scene in Baltimore is fantastic for meeting potential best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwestern states, with a friendly and welcoming populace that values community and has a positive outlook on life. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country, so its residents' easygoing demeanor is hardly surprising. Maybe it has something to do with the Packers

Although the locals may be wonderful, this state is one of the least populated and visited in the United States. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and generosity. Community spirit was rated highly by our readers.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. Even though Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to break into, the people there are nice (I swear). Your dog is welcome here, too, because it is the most pet-friendly state in the United States.

Mississippi is a lovely state full of genuine Southern hospitality. To many visitors, the friendliness of Mississippians comes as a pleasant surprise. Once you stop trying to convince them that life is better "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like one of the family.

When you meet a Missourian, you can expect to hear their entire life story before you've even said hello. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you treat them well. If you follow that simple guideline, you'll soon discover that Alabama is among the friendliest places in the United States. Just because they want to be nice, random people will do nice things for you like hold the door open or help you carry your groceries to your car.

In South Dakota, you'll find a wide variety of thriving, progressive communities populated by actively involved, welcoming locals. People will strike up conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, even in the biggest cities. People here are the epitome of the term "Midwestern nice."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are friendly. No matter if you're a lifelong resident or a tourist, you can expect the same warm reception from the locals. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians will have you packing your bags and heading south right away.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually are. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason; the people here are genuinely warm and helpful. It received high marks from our readers for the amount of assistance it provided from total strangers. Look lost Hopefully, a friendly local will be able to assist you.

In most of New Mexico's communities, you'll find warm and welcoming locals. It has a chill vibe and a wide variety of ethnic and cultural influences. In addition, two New Mexico cities ranked among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in 2018. That sums it up

With only ten people, This state in the southern United States has a population of over 3 million and a diverse landscape of urban and suburban areas, but its residents are known for their warm hospitality. Even in major metropolitan areas like Atlanta, getting to know locals is a breeze. Most of the Big 7 Travel readers who visited Georgia found it to be a pleasant experience.

It's common knowledge that Idaho is home to some of the friendliest people in the United States, and our readers agree. There is a genuine friendliness among the locals, and it is not accompanied by intrusive small talk. Idaho is as welcoming and friendly as its reputation suggests.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to incredibly warm and 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 are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

When it comes to Americans, you won't find a nicer bunch than those who live in Nebraska. It has a strong sense of community, with people helping each other out no matter where you look. You can pass for a true native if you just learn the "one finger" wave to use while driving.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. Louisianans may come from many different backgrounds, but they all contribute to what makes the state one of the friendliest and best places to live in the United States.

The people of Ohio are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine enthusiasm for life. They welcome visitors and are happy to recommend their favorite restaurant or bar. Additionally, it is a fantastic destination for families thanks to the abundance of fun things to do here that children will enjoy.

Since tourism is Hawaii's main industry, visitors can expect exceptional service while they're here. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet will give you a friendly wave and a warm smile, proof that paradise really does do something good for the spirit.

OKC isn't called "The Big Friendly" for nothing; OK is truly one of the friendliest states in the USA. The locals here are always up for a chat and will do whatever they can to protect their own. In addition to being welcoming to locals, they extend the same warmth to tourists.

Be ready to strike up conversations with complete strangers, as visitors from other states may be taken aback by the famous Kansas friendliness. Those in this state have such a warm welcome for visitors because of the locals' genuine friendliness.

It's a pleasure to visit Colorado because of its progressive environment and the fact that its residents are among the friendliest anywhere. It's a great place to bring the kids, there's a ton of interesting history to learn about, and vacationers will quickly feel at home here. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter where you are, urban Denver or rural Colorado.

Hoosiers are known far and wide for their generous spirit and warm welcome. The locals have a positive disposition and a great sense of humor. One trip will be all it takes to convince you that Indiana is more than just a "fly over" state.

Even though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. Even in major metropolitan areas, strangers will often help you out if you get stuck in the snow or need assistance carrying groceries. Don't even bother coming back for the keys. Most likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" 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 like you've come home to a small town when you visit.

The warm hospitality of South Carolinians is well-known, and the state is a great destination for vacation. South Carolina is a shining example of the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

The state of Tennessee exudes quintessential Southern hospitality, and its citizens are always excited to show visitors around. Adding in the vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

The winner among the most welcoming American states is Minnesotans are the friendliest in the nation. Because of its friendly locals and picturesque landscape, the Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have earned the nickname "Minnesota Nice."