A Ranking of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially those in the upstate) may 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.

The entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes of driving, but despite its diminutive size, its residents are anything but neighborly. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? As unfortunate as it is, it is considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

Massachusetts residents aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference 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. Additionally, it takes a considerable amount of time to establish oneself as a long-term resident of Boston rather than a temporary outsider.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. The results of this poll seem to back up that conclusion. A common stereotype about New Jerseyans is that they are rude and brash. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

Though 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. Perhaps it's all the wet weather

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. But that pride is often misunderstood as arrogance by those from other cultures. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population does not help.

The home of Sin City, Nevada is a state of vast contrasts When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. Generally speaking, Nevadans are not very willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Considering Miami's reputation as one of the friendliest U.S. cities, 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.

You'll probably be treated like an outsider in Rhode Island if you weren't raised there. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendly scale." Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

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 isn't exactly the City of Angels. Smaller urban centers have a more relaxed atmosphere.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough. 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. More than anything, it's a pleasant lack of concern for other people.

The people of Connecticut are friendly, if a bit reserved. Not really 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 come together at open mike nights and other community events.

Despite the state's relative isolation, Alaska relies heavily on tourism; consequently, locals are always happy to meet new visitors. All but Alaskan Natives are recent arrivals. They understand what it's like to be a stranger in a strange land. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

People in Montana will surprise you with their friendliness and hospitality. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. No one will invite you over for tea, but they're still a nice person. In general, the towns have a good time with each other and have welcoming attitudes toward visitors.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more hospitable and inviting to newcomers. 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 great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being open and friendly, making it an ideal place to meet new people. There is a lot of tourism in this area, so people will generally go out of their way to assist those who are visiting. 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 welcome to visitors. It's not uncommon for strangers to greet one another in public places like Walmart, parking lots, and even while waiting at a red light. It's great that people from all over the United States can congregate in this one state.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should 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.

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

Traveling across the United States, you'll find that West Virginians are among the most warm and friendly people you'll meet. The relaxed tempo of life here creates 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.

The people of Iowa have a reputation for friendliness and kindness, especially in urban areas where they frequently engage in small talk with passers-by and offer a friendly wave. There is a genuine sense of community, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

It's a common misconception that all Michiganders are warm and welcoming; in fact, some of the state's largest cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be downright unapproachable. People here have a good sense of humor, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

It is no surprise that the cultural landscape of Maryland reflects the state's status as one of the most culturally diverse in the country. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving and friendly atmosphere. The local bar scene in Baltimore is fantastic for meeting potential best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest; its residents are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in America, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. The Packers might have a role in this, right?

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. People from North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without seeking anything in return. The community spirit in the state was rated highly by our readers.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. Granted, it may take some time to earn acceptance into Portland's hipster scene, but I hear they're pretty chill. Also, your dog is guaranteed to be accepted here, as this state is ranked highest in the country for pet friendliness.

It's undeniable that Mississippi is a beautiful state, full of all the warmth and hospitality that the South is famous for. The warmth of Mississippians is often 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. 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 rule, you'll soon discover that Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the Union. People you don't know will go out of their way to help you. They might hold the door open or even help you carry 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. People in this region are the epitome of "Midwestern nice."

Regardless of your reason for visiting, you'll find that Kentuckians are consistently friendly. It doesn't matter if you're a lifelong resident or just passing through; the locals will treat you with the same warmth and friendliness. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone consider relocating here.

The likes of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are not necessarily the first places that come to mind when you think of "friendly cities," but 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 stranger kindness, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost Your chances of getting help from a friendly local are high.

In most of New Mexico's towns, you'll find hospitable locals who are eager to help you out. The atmosphere is chill and the range of cultures represented is impressive. Not only that, but two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people made it onto the Top 20 Cities list this year! So there you go.

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 areas. 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. There is a genuine friendliness among the locals, and it is not accompanied by intrusive small talk. When it comes to welcoming visitors, Idaho more than lives up to its reputation.

It's hard to beat the friendliness of the people in Illinois's neighboring states. 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.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. Everyone pitches in to help one another, creating a strong sense of community. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in just like a native.

While 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.

There is no better representation of good manners and genuine friendliness towards strangers than Ohio. 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 events and attractions geared toward younger visitors.

Due to Hawaii's strong commitment to the tourist industry, the state's guests are lavished with exceptional levels of service and care. It has a reputation for having an "Aloha Spirit." 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 aptly named. Here, people are always up for a chat and will do anything they can to protect those within their own community. It's not just locals who treat guests well.

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. Beautiful scenery and welcoming locals make this state a must-see.

There are some of the friendliest people in the world living in Colorado, adding to the state's already pleasant atmosphere of progressiveness. It's great for taking the kids, has a ton of interesting history, and will have you feeling like a true native in no time. Whether you're in the city of Denver or the suburbs, the warmth of the locals will greet you with open arms.

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.

While Wyoming itself is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. Even in large urban areas, it is not unusual for a stranger to offer to help you with something as simple as unsticking your car from the snow or carrying your groceries. The car keys are still in the ignition. Most likely, it will arrive undamaged.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its reputation as one of the most welcoming states in the United States is a testament to the fact that it is "everywhere you go." There's a touch of small-town friendliness in the country's major cities.

People in South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which is one of the reasons the state is so enjoyable to visit. South Carolina embodies the Southern tradition of warm welcome with gusto.

Abounding in Tennessee is that quintessential Southern hospitality, with a friendly and outgoing population that is more than happy to show visitors around. One of the most welcoming states in America, thanks in large part to its thriving music scene.

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 unrivaled "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals.