A Ranking of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially those in 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 fascinating melting pot of cultures. Don't block the sidewalk or cause traffic delays by taking photos for Instagram, though.

You'll find a warm welcome in Arkansas if you're a local. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong.

The state of Delaware is so small that it can be crossed in 90 minutes by car, but its size doesn't necessarily equate to neighborliness. Is it that our readers' perception of Delaware as unwelcoming stems from the state's (possibly exaggerated) image as dull? Sadly, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

It's not that people in MA are rude, but their general lack of interest in interacting with tourists can be wearing. Massachusetts isn't exactly one of the friendliest states in America due to its residents' tendency to ignore them. Becoming a full-fledged Bostonian, as opposed to a temporary resident, is a lengthy process as well.

It's easy to mistake the Jersey way of life for outright rudeness. This survey seems to confirm that to be the case. Those who hail from New Jersey are often stereotyped as being loud and brash. And at least the (possibly unfriendly) gas station worker will pump your gas for you!

While Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, it has a much more mixed reputation when it comes to its residents. People in Seattle aren't outright unfriendly, but there is a distinct "polite but unfriendly" vibe that has earned the city the nickname "Seattle freeze." Perhaps it's due to the abundance of recent precipitation.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. Nonetheless, it's easy for others to misinterpret such pride as arrogance. Because of its stubborn natives and sparse rural population, making friends here can be challenging.

Las Vegas, Nevada is in a state of extremes. Travelers looking for a less cutthroat vacation destination should consider Reno or Salt Lake City instead of Las Vegas. The general population of Nevada is not particularly friendly toward strangers.

Florida certainly has its work cut out for it if Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least friendly 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.

Unless you've lived in Rhode Island your whole life, you probably won't be accepted as a true local. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendliness scale." Though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, this is not the case in larger cities.

A lot of people in California like to think of themselves as friendly, but our readers would disagree. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles is no City of Angels, instead giving off an air of coldness and even hostility. Casual lifestyles prevail in smaller urban centers.

Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are chill enough that you won't mind if you drop in. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. In other words, it's a pleasant lack of concern for other people.

Residents of Connecticut are friendly and polite, but somewhat reserved. Not really Even though New Englanders have a reputation for being cold and unfriendly, they will still open doors and greet you warmly when you visit. Although it isn't the most culturally active state, its residents are able to come together through 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 of the locals, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point. Or, they'll simply ignore you, which isn't rude.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their hospitality. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a single large town. Nobody will invite you over for tea, but they're still pleasant. Between cities, there is friendly banter, with an upbeat outlook on visitors.

Virginia's growing 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 and other major cities, it's a promising location.

Vermonters are known to be warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place to make new friends. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. 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.

The people who call North Carolina home are known for their politeness, willingness to aid strangers, and warm reception of guests. People will greet you with a "hi" almost anywhere: the grocery store, the parking lot, the stoplight. One of the state's best features is the eclectic mix of people who call it home.

You'll quickly feel at home in Utah thanks to the state's welcoming population. Salt Lake City is one of the most sociable and exciting places to live in the United States, and it is also considered to be one of the most welcoming cities for the LGBTQ community.

Our readership seems to agree that Mainers' warmth and the state's low crime rate make it an attractive place to settle down. Mainens, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are known for being friendly and outgoing. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. Here, people move at a relaxed pace, creating a friendly environment. There is a tight-knit sense of community 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. Authentic community spirit is present, as are friendly cashiers and farmers selling fresh produce on the side of the road.

The people of Michigan like to think of themselves as a welcoming and sociable bunch, but some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be difficult to get to know. People here have a good sense of humor, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

Maryland has a large population and a wide range of cultural traditions, making it one of the most culturally diverse states in the country. Given its welcoming nature toward strangers, it is a lively and engaging place to spend some time with friends and strangers alike. 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 Midwestern states, with a friendly and welcoming populace that values community and has a positive outlook on life. Because Green Bay is one of the happiest cities in America, its residents are naturally friendly. Could the Packers be involved in this somehow?

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 without seeking payment. Based on your votes, residents of this state have a strong sense of community.

There is a common perception that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly toward those they have never met before. The Portland hipster scene may be difficult to enter, but 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.

When it comes to Southern hospitality, Mississippi is hard to beat. Foreigners are often taken aback by the warm welcome they receive in Mississippi. The natives are extremely friendly, and they will make you feel at home as long as you refrain from bragging about how much better life is "up North."

Before you can even say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy recounting of his or her life experiences. Not only are they friendly, but they also genuinely care about what complete strangers have to say.

Everything and everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you are friendly. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that rule of thumb. Just because they want to be nice, strangers will do nice things like hold the door open and help you carry your groceries to your car.

South Dakota is home to a wide variety of thriving, progressive communities populated by actively engaged and hospitable people. Here, people of all ages and backgrounds will strike up casual conversations with total strangers, even in the biggest cities. Those who live 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. The friendly locals don't care if you were born and raised here or if you're just passing through. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone consider making the state their permanent home.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually 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 is likely to assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It has a relaxed atmosphere and a wide variety of cultural influences. In addition, two New Mexico cities were among the 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. And there you have it

With only ten people, With a population of over 3 million people, this state in the southern United States is a fascinating blend of rural and urban communities, but its residents are warm and welcoming no matter where you go. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Many of the readers of Big 7 Travel found Georgia to be quite pleasant.

People from all over the country will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest you'll meet, and our readers agree. The locals are genuinely warm and inviting, and not in a stalkerish way. Idaho's reputation for friendliness and openness towards visitors is well-deserved.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to incredibly welcoming locals. When compared to New York City, Chicago is often regarded as the more welcoming destination for international visitors. As an added bonus, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it an attractive tourist destination.

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 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.

People here will go out of their way to make you feel at home, despite the city's recent history of natural disasters. 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. There are many options for children and families to enjoy themselves.

Hawaii places a premium on its tourist industry, so vacationers can expect a warm welcome. There is a special "Aloha Spirit" there. Everyone you meet will give you a friendly wave and a warm smile, proof that paradise really does do something good for the spirit.

Oklahoma is home to some of America's friendliest people, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. Residents of this area are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They are just as welcoming to guests.

Being prepared to strike up a conversation with complete strangers is a must when visiting Kansas, a state known for its hospitable locals and tourists alike. Because locals are so welcoming to visitors, the state is stunning.

Colorado is a great state to visit because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals. It's great for taking the kids, has a ton of interesting things to do, and will have you feeling more at home in no time. You can feel the friendliness 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 legendary "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 "fly over" state; after visiting, you'll always remember it as home.

The people of Wyoming are what really make this state exciting, even if it is a relatively quiet place. Even in large cities, it is not unusual for a stranger to help you carry your groceries or free your stuck car from the snow. Don't bother getting out of the car. It's probably going to make it through unscathed.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its reputation as one of the most welcoming states in the U.S. has been earned through efforts that can be seen "everywhere you go." 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 exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

Tennessee is bursting with that quintessential Southern hospitality, and its citizens are energized and excited to show off their hometown to visitors. It's already one of the most welcoming places in America, but when you factor in the exciting music scene, you can see why.

The most welcoming state in the United States is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state ranks first. The Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have an unbeatable "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals who go out of their way to make visitors feel at home.