A Ranking of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially those in the countryside) could New York City may seem overwhelming at first, but if you give it time, you'll find that each of the five boroughs has distinct neighborhoods with a strong 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), you'll find the locals to be extremely welcoming. 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 entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes by car, the people living there are hardly neighborly. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a boring place to live? Regrettably, it is considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

Those who live in Massachusetts aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference to tourists can be wearing. Massachusetts's tendency to ignore its citizens is not exactly a quality that makes it a leader among the friendliest states in America. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. And according to the results of this poll, that's unquestionably the case. Jersey natives are notoriously forthright. On the plus side, the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will do the pumping for you.

Washington state may be near the top of lists of environmentally-friendly states, but that doesn't mean its residents are. The people of Seattle aren't outright hostile, but there is a distinct "polite but unfriendly" vibe that has earned the city the nickname "Seattle Freeze." It could be the precipitation, I suppose.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. However, this sense of pride can easily be misinterpreted by strangers as arrogance. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals here due to their stubborn nature and the small population.

Vegas, Nevada is a state of extremes. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a rough place to spend time. On the whole, Nevadans are not particularly willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Given that Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least welcoming cities in the United States, Florida has its work cut out for it. 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.

Many Rhode Islanders have a hard time accepting anyone who wasn't raised there. When asked to rate Rhode Islanders on a "friendly scale," Big 7 Travel readers didn't give them high marks. Although the local cashier is more likely to smile in a smaller neighborhood, they won't exactly go out of their way to make your day.

While many native Californians may believe that their state is known for its warm and welcoming culture, our readers have a different opinion. 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.

People in Arizona aren't as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough to ignore that. 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 are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. That's not the case at all Although New Englanders have a reputation for being cold and unfriendly, they will always open doors for you and greet you with a friendly hello. Even though it isn't the most culturally active state, its residents are able to come together at open mike nights and other community events.

Though Alaska is remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, so locals are always happy to see visitors. Most people in this area, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived here at some point. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

The people of Montana will win you over with their genuine hospitality. In spite of its considerable size, the entire state has the feel of a single large town. They are pleasant enough without inviting you over for tea, but you won't be invited to anyone's house. There is friendly competition between the cities, with a warm welcome extended to visitors.

The Commonwealth of Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and warm. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, despite the fact that some may view it as quite traditional and wary of strangers. C and other major cities make it an appealing location to live in

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming. Because of the abundance of tourists, the locals are friendly and willing to go the extra mile to accommodate their needs. Small-town Vermonters can 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 welcome to visitors. Anywhere from the supermarket to the parking lot to a stoplight, people will say "hi." One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

Utahns are well-known for their warm hospitality, so you'll quickly feel at ease. 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.

Our readers seem to agree that Maine is a great place to call home due to its low crime rate and welcoming population. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are known to be friendly and outgoing. Upon your arrival, you'll notice this right away.

West Virginians are among the friendliest and most hospitable people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. The relaxed tempo of life here creates a welcoming ambiance. Because of the mountains' role as a buffer zone between the state of West Virginia and the rest of the country, its residents tend to stick together.

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.

There's a perception that Michiganders are a warm and welcoming people, but the cities of Detroit and Ann Arbor in particular can be difficult to navigate. A good sense of humor and Midwestern politeness characterize the locals.

Population-wise, Maryland is high up there with the rest of the states, and the state is also home to a wide range of cultural traditions. 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 friendly locals who value their community and a positive outlook on life. People in Green Bay are exceptionally pleasant to be around because it is one of the happiest cities in America. What role, if any, could the Packers play in this?

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. North Dakotans are known for being friendly and helpful to strangers without seeking any sort of reward. The state received high marks from our readers for its friendly atmosphere.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. The Portland hipster scene may be difficult to enter, but the people there are nice, I swear. It also has the highest percentage of pet-friendly households in the United States.

The Magnolia State of Mississippi is a delightful place, full of warmth and hospitality. 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.

In Missouri, people will start telling you about their lives even before you've introduced yourself. 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. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that simple rule. People you don't know will go out of their way to help you, such as holding the door open or carrying your groceries to your car.

There are many progressive, forward-thinking communities in South Dakota that are home to enthusiastic and welcoming residents. People will strike up conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, even in the biggest cities. Everyone here is the epitome of "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 whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through. It's the unique warmth of Kentuckians' hospitality that will have you packing your bags for the Bluegrass State 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; people here are genuinely kind to one another. According to our poll, people are more likely to help complete strangers if they see them featured. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It's chill and full of different cultures. 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, 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 major metropolises like Atlanta, acquaintanceships can be formed quickly and easily. According to Big 7 Travel readers, Georgia is wonderful.

The people of Idaho have been voted the friendliest in the country, confirming what you've probably heard from others. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish way. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to outsiders.

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 are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

Some of the friendliest people you'll encounter in the United States are from Nebraska. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help each other, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. If you can master the "one finger" wave while driving, you'll blend in just like a native.

Although the area has had a rough go of it recently due to natural disasters, the locals will do anything they can to make you feel at home. Louisianans may come from many different backgrounds, but they all contribute to the state's reputation as one of the friendliest and most enjoyable places to live in the United States.

Ohioans are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine enthusiasm for life in the Midwest. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or watering hole to visitors. It's also fantastic for families, as there are many things to do there that are geared toward children.

Hawaii places a premium on its tourist industry, so visitors are treated like royalty. The "Aloha Spirit" is what makes Hawaii famous. It must be good for the spirit to live in paradise, because everyone you meet will greet you with a friendly smile.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. They are always up for a chat 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 warmth of the locals toward tourists is one of the state's greatest attractions.

With its progressive culture and welcoming locals, Colorado is a great vacation destination. It's great for taking the kids, there's a ton to learn, and you'll quickly feel like a native. You'll feel the welcoming vibes of Colorado right away, whether you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

Indiana residents are known far and wide for their warm and generous "Hoosier hospitality." The locals have a pleasant disposition and a good sense of humor. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana is so much more than a "fly over" state.

While Wyoming itself is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. Even in the most populated areas, 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 coming back to get the keys. With any luck, 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 country. The locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

Residents of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which contributes to the state's reputation as a pleasant vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

Tennessee has that classic Southern charm going strong, with residents who are buzzing with excitement and eager to show off their city to visitors. When you consider that it also has a thriving music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's most welcoming states.

Also, the winner of the competition between the friendliest states in America 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 warmth and friendly welcome to visitors that is hard to find elsewhere.