A Ranking of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially those in the countryside) could The city may be overwhelming at first, with so many different people and cultures to take in, but if you give it some time, you'll find that each of the five boroughs of New York City has a distinct and welcoming sense of community. 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. While this is great 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 doesn't necessarily equate to neighborliness. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? A sad reality is that it is one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

The people of Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, but their apathy toward tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts is not exactly one of the friendliest states in America due to its residents' tendency to ignore them. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to an outsider, can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. Indeed, according to the results of this poll, that is the situation The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. At least the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will pump your gas for you.

The state of Washington might consistently rank highly when it comes to environmentally-friendly states, but when it comes to people it’s a different story Even though Seattleites don't come across as rude, they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, which has earned the city its nickname, "Seattle freeze." Perhaps it's the deluge of rain we've been having

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. However, while Las Vegas can be a cutthroat environment, neighborly cities like Reno offer a more pleasant alternative. As a whole, Nevadans are not particularly willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

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

Being an outsider is something you can expect to always be labeled as if you weren't born and raised in Rhode Island. According to Big 7 Travel readers, Rhode Islanders aren't particularly hospitable. The local cashier may not exactly be smiling at you, but smaller communities tend to be friendlier.

Our readers do not share the common belief that Californians are as sociable as the rest of the country would like to believe. Despite its nickname, Los Angeles does not have the warm and friendly vibe of the City of Angels; rather, it has an aloofness that sometimes borders on rudeness. 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 any huge grins being exchanged. Kind of a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their politeness, reserve, and general niceness. Not really People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they'll still open the door for you and greet you if you happen to pass by. It's not the most culturally rich state, but people still manage to come together at open mike nights and other community events.

Although Alaska is quite remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, so locals are always happy to see visitors. Aside from Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of current residents here were once foreigners, so they 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.

It will come as a pleasant surprise to you how welcoming and friendly people in Montana are. 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. Friendly banter between cities, with an upbeat outlook on visitors of all kinds.

Virginia's growing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view it as conservative and wary. C in comparison to other major cities, which makes it a good place to live.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place to make new friends. Because of the abundance of tourists, the locals are extremely friendly and willing to assist foreigners in any way they can. Vermonters in smaller communities can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

Individuals residing in North Carolina are known for their polite demeanor, willingness to assist others, and friendliness toward tourists and fellow citizens. Even while waiting at a red light, people will often greet one another in the aisles of a Walmart or the parking lot. One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. To top it all off, Salt Lake City is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly major cities in the United States, making it a wonderful place to live if you enjoy a lively and social environment.

Our readers seem to agree that Maine is a great place to call home because of its low crime rate and welcoming community. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are friendly and outgoing. Right when you walk in, you'll notice this.

Traveling across the United States, you'll find that West Virginians are among the most warm and friendly people you'll meet. The relaxed rhythm of life creates a friendly environment. West Virginia is a tight-knit community due in large part to the state's natural isolation from the rest of the country.

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's a genuine sense of community there, 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 large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states. Given its welcoming nature toward strangers, it is a lively and engaging place to spend some time with friends and strangers alike. Making new best friends in a Baltimore bar is a breeze.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest; its residents are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. The residents of Green Bay, Wisconsin, are known for their unfailing good nature. This is not surprising, given that the city ranks among the happiest in the country. Would the Packers be a possible cause?

It's not because of the quality of the locals that this is one of the least populated and least visited states in the United States. The people of North Dakota are known for being friendly and helpful, even if they don't get anything in return. 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. Since it also ranks as the most pet-friendly state in the USA, Fido is more than welcome here, too.

Mississippi is an attractive state that exudes plenty of traditional Southern warmth. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. 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.

Before you can even say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy account of their life experiences. There's no pretense here; people are genuinely friendly and interested in chatting with strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you treat them well. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that simple rule. Just to be nice, random people will hold the door open for you and assist you with your groceries as you walk out to your car.

There are many progressive, forward-thinking communities in South Dakota that are home to enthusiastic and welcoming residents. Even in the largest cities, it is common practice for people to strike up conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to the latest football game. The residents of this region 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. There's something about a Kentuckian's warmth and hospitality that makes you want to settle down here right away.

You might not immediately associate cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh with friendliness, but you'd be wrong. The phrase "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. Regarding the friendliness of total strangers, our readers gave it a high rating. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Almost everywhere you go in New Mexico, you'll meet nice people. It's chill and full of different cultures. Moreover, two New Mexico cities were among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in 2018. Finally, you have it

Home to just 10 people With a population of over 3 million people, this state in the southern United States is a fascinating blend of rural and urban areas. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, it's not hard to strike up conversations with locals. The citizens of Georgia were viewed favorably by Big 7 Travel readers.

People from all over the country will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest you'll meet, and our readers agree. Here, you'll find genuine friendliness rather than intrusive curiosity from the local populace. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Illinois is a beautiful state in the center of the Midwest, and its residents are some of the nicest you'll ever meet. 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 for tourists.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help one another, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. Master the "one finger" wave while behind the wheel, and you'll blend in just 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 many cultural and linguistic diversity, Louisianans share a common trait that contributes to the state's reputation as one of the friendliest and most enjoyable places to live in the United States.

It's hard to find a better example of Midwestern politeness and genuine friendliness than the people of Ohio. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or watering hole to visitors. There are many options for children and families to enjoy themselves.

Hawaii places a premium on its tourist industry, so visitors can expect to be treated like royalty. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet in paradise will greet you with a friendly smile, so clearly paradise has a healing effect on the human psyche.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. The locals are very sociable and will always look out for their own. They are 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.

The welcoming locals and progressive culture of Colorado make it a great vacation destination. It's great for families, there's a ton to do culturally, and tourists quickly feel at home here. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

The people of Indiana take great pride in their famous "Hoosier hospitality," in which they routinely go out of their way to help strangers. The locals have a positive disposition and a great sense of humor. Indiana is more than just a passing state; it will forever hold a special place in your heart after just one visit.

While Wyoming as a whole is relatively tranquil, the people who call it home make it anything but boring. Even in the largest of cities, it is not unusual for a complete stranger to offer to help you with something as simple as getting your car unstuck from the snow or carrying your groceries. Don't even bother getting the keys out of the ignition. It is probably going to make it through unscathed.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its welcoming people "everywhere you go" have undoubtedly earned it a spot on the list of the friendliest U.S. 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 warmth and hospitality, making the state a great vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

Typical of the South, Tennesseans are friendly and eager to show off their city to visitors. A vibrant music scene also helps explain why this is one of America's friendliest states.

Finally, the most welcoming state in the United States is The people of Minnesota are the friendliest in the country. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the Twin Cities and surrounding areas exude a genuine friendliness and hospitality that are hard to find elsewhere.