A Ranking of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially those in the upstate) may ), but it's a fascinating cultural crossroads, and if you can make it through the initial shock, you'll find that the neighborhoods in each of the five boroughs of New York City have a strong sense of community. You should not linger in the street or impede 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 entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes by car, the people living there are hardly neighborly. Is it that our readers' perception of Delaware as unwelcoming stems from the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? Sadly, it is considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

Residents of Massachusetts 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. Becoming a full-fledged resident of Boston rather than viewed as a temporary visitor can take years.

At times, the Jersey way of life can come across as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case Personality-wise, New Jersey residents are known for being very outspoken. However, at least the (possibly hostile) 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. While Seattleites aren't outright rude, they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe (hence the "Seattle freeze"). Perhaps the precipitation has played a role.

The people of New Hampshire are extremely patriotic and proud of their state. A lot of times, though, other people take that pridefulness for arrogance. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help matters.

Nevada, the state in which Sin City is located, is a place of extremes. Compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, such as Las Vegas can be a bit of a "dog eat dog" On the whole, Nevadans are not particularly willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida certainly has its work cut out for it if 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.

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 didn't give Rhode Islanders high marks on the "friendliness scale." Generally speaking, the local cashier will not be smiling and friendly, even if you happen to be in a smaller town.

Readers of this publication disagree with the widespread belief that Californians are a friendly bunch. With an overall aloofness that borders on rudeness, Los Angeles is not exactly the City of Angels when it comes to making visitors feel at home. The tempo in smaller urban centers is generally slower.

Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are chill enough to make up for it. While waiting in line, random people are likely to start talking to one another. This attitude is more of a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. Not really Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. Even though it's not the most culturally active state, its residents still manage to have fun at open mike nights and other gatherings.

Although Alaska is in the middle of nowhere, the state relies heavily on tourism, so its residents are always happy to see visitors. Almost everyone in this city, with the exception of Alaska Natives, is a transplant who has experienced life as a newcomer. They may do this or simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their hospitality. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. Someone who won't invite you over for tea, but is nice all the same. The townspeople joke around and welcome visitors with open arms.

Virginia's growing diversity is making the state even more hospitable and inviting to newcomers. Washington, D.C., is a cultural mecca, but some might say that it's too traditional and too wary of strangers. C and other major cities, it's a great place to live.

The people of Vermont are known for being warm and welcoming, making it simple to meet new friends. Because of the abundance of tourists, the locals are extremely friendly and willing to help with any needs. It may take some time for the locals in a small Vermont town to warm up to a newcomer, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

Most people in North Carolina are polite, helpful, and welcoming. Greetings are commonplace in public places like Walmart and parking lots, or even while waiting at a red light. One of the state's best features is the eclectic mix of people who call it home.

The people of Utah are well-known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right 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.

The low crime rate and welcoming nature of Mainers have made this state a favorite among our readers. Although New Englanders as a whole have a reputation for being reserved, Mainers are known for their openness and friendliness. 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. Life here is relaxed, making for a friendly ambiance. 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. There's a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling fresh produce on the side of the road.

Although Michiganders like to think of themselves as a warm and welcoming people, some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be difficult to get to know. The locals have a genial disposition and a Midwestern politeness that complements their good humor.

There is a wide range of cultural traditions represented in Maryland, which is one of the most populous states. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving, social atmosphere. If you go to a bar in Baltimore, you're bound to meet some people you become fast friends with.

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 the country. Maybe it has something to do with the Packers

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 generosity. When asked about the state's sense of community, our readers gave it high marks.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to enter, but the people there are nice, I swear. If you're bringing your dog, they'll be welcome here, too, because it's the most pet-friendly state in the country.

It's undeniable that Mississippi is a beautiful state, full of all the warmth and hospitality that the South is famous for. Most tourists are pleasantly surprised by the welcoming nature of Mississippians. People in this area 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 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. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in America if you follow that rule of thumb. For no other reason than to be friendly, total strangers will do things like hold the door open and 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. The residents of this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern Nice."

People in Kentucky are generally pleasant no matter what. It doesn't matter if you're a lifelong resident or a tourist; the locals will treat you with the same warmth and friendliness. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians will make you want to pack your bags and head here right away.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, are, in fact, quite welcoming. The phrase "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. Those who read it gave it high marks for the generosity of total strangers. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

The people of New Mexico are known to be among the friendliest you'll encounter anywhere. It's chill and full of different cultures. The state of New Mexico is home to two cities that were named among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. That sums it up

With only ten people, There are 3 million people in this state in the southern United States, and while they may live in one of the many different types of neighborhoods, they are all very welcoming. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people here is simple. Those who read the Big 7 Travel report on Georgia thought it was wonderful.

People from all over the country will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest you'll meet, and our readers agree. Indeed, locals are warm and welcoming, but not in a stalkerish fashion. True to its reputation, Idaho welcomes visitors with open arms and genuine kindness.

Located in the middle of the United States, Illinois is home to welcoming people. Despite New York City's popularity among tourists, Chicago is often ranked higher. Moreover, it is a pleasant state to visit: 19 of the safest cities in America are located in Illinois.

Some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet in the United States are from Nebraska. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help one another, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. You can pass for a true native if you just learn the "one finger" wave to use while driving.

Despite the region's recent history of natural disasters, the locals will do whatever 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.

People in Ohio have impeccable manners and a genuine enthusiasm for life. Friendly locals are always happy to recommend their go-to hangout to visitors. There are many options for children and families to enjoy themselves.

Hawaii puts a lot of effort into catering to tourists, so they are well taken care of in every other way as well. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. 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. Residents of this area are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They treat guests with the same warmth and hospitality as locals.

Travelers 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 towards tourists is one of the state's many attractive features.

As a progressive state with some of the friendliest people on the planet, Colorado is a great place to visit. Family-friendly and secure, there is a wealth of cultural experiences to be had here, and in no time at all, visitors will feel as at home as the locals. Feeling welcome in Colorado is an immediate experience, whether you're in the city of Denver or out in the country.

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 demeanor 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 the state of Wyoming is relatively calm, the people who live there make it a lively and exciting place to visit. Even in large cities, it is not uncommon for a stranger to offer assistance with tasks such as unsticking your car from snow or carrying groceries. Never take your keys out of the car. All things considered, it's probably going to make it.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" The welcoming people you meet "everywhere you go" have undoubtedly helped make this state one of the friendliest in the United States. You'll feel right at home among its friendly locals in any of its big cities.

The warm hospitality of South Carolinians is well-known, and the state is a great destination for vacation. South Carolina has all the warmth and friendliness that the South is famous for.

Tennessee is the epitome of classic Southern hospitality, and its citizens are always excited to show visitors around. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

As for the most welcoming state in the Union, it is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state ranks first. Minnesota has earned the nickname "Minnesota Nice" for good reason: the state's major cities and surrounding areas exude a warm, welcoming vibe that is hard to find elsewhere.