A Ranking of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

Upon first impression, locals (especially those from 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 melting pot of many cultures. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

If you're a local in Arkansas, you'll find that the people are very 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 dull place to live? It's one of the least welcoming states in the country, which is a shame.

The people of Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, but their apathy toward tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts isn't exactly going to make the list of the friendliest states in America if its residents have a tendency to ignore their fellow citizens. Becoming a full-fledged Bostonian, as opposed to being seen as a tourist, can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. As this survey shows, that appears to be the case Personalists with an "in your face" approach are typical of a New Jersey native. But at least the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will fill up your tank.

The Evergreen State may be near the top of lists of environmentally-friendly states, but its human inhabitants are another story. 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 full of devoted citizens who take great pride in their home. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. Due to its small rural population and obstinate locals, this place can be difficult to make friends in.

Vegas, Nevada is a state of extremes. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. People in Nevada generally aren't very willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida certainly has its work cut out for it, what with Miami consistently ranking as one of the least hospitable cities in the United States. Orlando's tourist-friendly initiatives are a huge boon to the state, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go before its reputation catches up.

If you aren't a native Rhode Islander, you probably won't fit in socially. 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 to be treated to a warm welcome anywhere.

Our readers do not share the common belief that Californians are as sociable as the rest of the country would like to think they are. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. Most people tend to take it easier 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. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

Connecticut residents are friendly and polite, but reserved. Not really In spite of the region's reputation for coldness, you can count on a friendly greeting and a helping hand wherever you go. The state isn't exactly a hotbed of artistic expression, but open mike nights and other community gatherings do their part to keep people connected.

While Alaskans may feel cut off from the rest of the world, the state's reliance on tourism means they'll go out of their way to make visitors feel at home. In fact, with the exception of Alaska Natives, the vast majority of the locals here are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point. They might not respond to you at all, which is not rude, or they might.

You won't believe how welcoming and friendly everyone in Montana is. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a single small community. No one will invite you over for tea, but they're still a nice person. Greetings to visitors are met with a friendly attitude and lighthearted banter between the towns.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. 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.

It's not hard to meet new people and form friendships in Vermont because of the state's affable populace. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. Vermonters in smaller communities can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

In my experience, natives of North Carolina are polite, helpful, and welcoming to anyone. At Walmart, in the parking lot, or even while waiting at a red light, people will randomly say "hi." A notable aspect of the state is the diversity of its inhabitants.

Utahns are 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.

Our readership seems to agree that Mainers' warmth and the state's low crime rate make it an attractive place to settle down. People from New England tend to have a reputation for being quiet and reserved, but Mainers are known for being friendly and outgoing. That's the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

West Virginians are among the friendliest and most hospitable people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. A relaxed way of life creates a friendly environment here. 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. The locals are very friendly, from the cashiers to the roadside farmers who will gladly tell you all about their delicious produce.

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. A good sense of humor and Midwestern politeness characterize the locals.

The population density of Maryland is high, and the state is also home to a wide range of cultural traditions. It's a lively and social place to spend some time because it welcomes visitors from all over the world. One of the best places to meet potential best friends in Baltimore is at a bar.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest, with friendly, polite citizens who value their communities and enjoy life. Since Green Bay is located in one of the happiest regions of the United States, its residents are naturally friendly and outgoing. A connection to the Packers is possible.

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. Residents of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without seeking anything in return. The state received high marks from our readers for its friendly atmosphere.

Oregonians have a reputation for friendliness toward strangers. It may take some time to earn acceptance into Portland's hipster scene, but the people there are nice, I swear. Having the highest percentage of pet-friendly households in the United States, your dog is guaranteed a warm welcome here.

Mississippi is an endearing state full of homey touches typical of the South. One thing that often surprises visitors to Mississippi is how welcoming the locals are. They are very friendly and will make you feel at home as long as you refrain from bragging about how great it is "up North."

Before you can even say "hello," a Missourian will launch into an epic monologue about their life experiences. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

If you treat everyone you meet in Alabama with kindness, they will treat you with kindness in return. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that rule of thumb. People you don't know will go out of their way to help you, from holding the door open to assisting you with your groceries to your car.

South Dakota is home to a wide variety of thriving, progressive communities populated by actively involved, welcoming locals. The culture here encourages open conversation between strangers, even in the largest cities. Everyone here is the epitome of "Midwestern nice."

No matter what you're going through, you'll find that people in Kentucky are always willing to help you out. The friendly locals don't care if you were born and raised here or if you're just passing through. The warmth and welcome of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone pack their bags and head to the Bluegrass State.

Unlike their reputations, cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are actually quite welcoming. 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 There's a decent person around here who might lend a hand if you ask.

In most of New Mexico's towns, you'll find hospitable locals. It has a relaxed atmosphere and a wide variety of cultural influences. New Mexico is home to two cities that were named among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. In any case, there it is.

A town of only 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, getting to know locals is simple. The citizens of Georgia were highly regarded 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. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. Idaho's reputation for friendliness and openness towards visitors is well-deserved.

Locationally, Illinois is right in the middle of the Midwest, and its people are some of the friendliest you'll ever Despite New York City's popularity among tourists, Chicago is often ranked higher. A lot of the best cities in the United States can be found in Illinois, and the state as a whole is a pretty safe place to visit.

Some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet in the United States are from Nebraska. There is a genuine sense of community, with people constantly pitching in to help one another. Become an almost native driver by learning the "one finger" wave.

Even though 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 good manners and friendly demeanor across the region. Locals are friendly and willing to show visitors their favorite spots for eating and drinking. 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 here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. Also, they're very welcoming to outsiders.

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 warmth and friendliness of the locals to visitors is one of the state's greatest attractions.

People in Colorado are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet, and the state itself has a progressive vibe that makes for a great vacation. It's great for taking the kids, there's a ton to learn, and you'll quickly feel like a native. Whether you're in the city of Denver or out in the country, the welcoming atmosphere is the same.

The people of Indiana take great pride in their famous "Hoosier hospitality," in which they consistently go out of their way to help others. The locals have a positive disposition and a great sense of humor. One trip will be all it takes to convince you that Indiana is more than just a "fly over" state.

Although Wyoming is a relatively calm state, its residents make it a great place to visit. Even in large cities, it's not unusual for a stranger to offer to help you with something like unsticking your car from snow or carrying your groceries. Don't even bother getting out of the car! There is a good chance that it will arrive undamaged.

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 United States. 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 is a great example of the classic Southern charm that has made the South so popular, with friendly, outgoing locals who are eager to show off their city to visitors. With its warm people and thriving music scene, it's easy to see why this state is considered among the most welcoming in the United States.

Which state in America is the most welcoming? Top honors go to Minnesota, whose residents are known for being among the friendliest in the country. There's a reason why the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the people of the Twin Cities and beyond have an inviting, friendly demeanor that's hard to find elsewhere.