America's 50 Friendliest States, Ranked

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 melting pot of many cultures. Taking pictures for Instagram is fine, but not if it means blocking the sidewalk or making other drivers wait.

If you happen to be from Arkansas (emphasis on 'if,' though), you'll find the locals to be extremely welcoming. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong there.

Though the state of Delaware is relatively compact (it takes only about 90 minutes to drive from one end to the other), its size does not necessarily equate to neighborliness. Is it that our readers' preconceptions of Delaware's amiability stem from the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? Sadly, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

The people of Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, but their apathy toward tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts isn't exactly going to be on the list of friendliest states in America if its residents have a tendency to ignore their fellow citizens. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a temporary resident, can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. As this survey shows, that appears to be the case Most people from New Jersey have bold and forthright personalities. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

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. Despite the fact that Seattleites aren't outright rude, they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, hence the nickname "Seattle freeze." Perhaps it's all the wet weather

The people of New Hampshire are extremely patriotic and proud of their state, and the state itself is stunning. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

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. It's safe to say that most Nevadans wouldn't go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida has its work cut out for it if Miami is viewed 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.

Most people who weren't raised in Rhode Island have a hard time accepting those who weren't born and raised there. Big 7 readers didn't give Rhode Islanders high marks on the "friendliness scale." Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

Even though many people in California take pride in their reputation as being welcoming, our readers tend to disagree. The people of Los Angeles aren't exactly the most welcoming, giving off an air of disinterestedness that sometimes crosses into outright rudeness. A more relaxed pace of life can be found in smaller towns.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough. When waiting in line, it's the type of place where total strangers will start talking to each other; however, you shouldn't count on anyone being overly cheerful. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

People from Connecticut are friendly, if a bit reserved. Not really Although New Englanders have a reputation for being distant, they will still open doors for you and greet you warmly. 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.

While Alaska is in the middle of nowhere, its residents are more than happy to open their arms to visitors because the tourism industry is so important to the state's economy. The majority of Anchorage's population is not indigenous to the area; in fact, everyone here is a transplant who has experienced being a stranger in a strange land. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you, but in either case, 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. 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.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more hospitable 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 in comparison to other major cities, which makes it a good place to live.

The people of Vermont are known for being warm and welcoming, making it simple to meet new friends. Since tourism is so important to the area's economy, residents are generally eager to accommodate visitors. Vermonters in smaller communities can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

To a person, North Carolinians are pleasant, helpful, and welcoming. Hi's are commonplace in public places like Walmart or the parking lot, or even while waiting at a red light. One of the best things about the state is how it serves as a dumping ground for people from all over the country.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. 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 readers agree that Maine is a desirable place to settle because of its low crime rate and welcoming population. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are known for being friendly and outgoing. The moment you step foot in this location, you'll notice this.

Many visitors to the United States are pleasantly surprised to discover that West Virginians rank among the friendliest and most hospitable people they encounter. There is a relaxed tempo of life that makes for a friendly environment. Because of the mountains' role as a buffer zone between the state of West Virginia and the rest of the country, the people who live there tend to stick together.

Iowans have a reputation for friendliness and generosity, as evidenced by their frequent use of "howdy" and "how are you" greetings in public. There is a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road who are more than happy to 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. The people here have a great sense of humor, are laid back, and are incredibly polite.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. Being welcoming to strangers makes for a lively and engaging hangout spot. 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; its residents are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. Green Bay ranks among the happiest cities in America, so its residents' natural disposition is one of friendliness. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

This may be one of the least-visited and least-populated states in the United States, but that has absolutely nothing to do with the quality of its residents. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and generosity. The community spirit in this state was highly rated by our readers.

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). If you're bringing your dog, they'll be welcome here, too, because it's the most pet-friendly state in the country.

Mississippi is a lovely state full of genuine Southern hospitality. Mississippians are known for their warm hospitality, which often surprises visitors. 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 account of their life experiences. They're genuine in their friendliness, and they seem to enjoy hearing from total strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you are friendly. Follow that guideline, and you'll soon discover that Alabama is among the friendliest states in the Union. 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. The residents of this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern Nice."

It doesn't matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are always 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 will have you packing your bags and heading south right away.

Even though Philadelphia and Pittsburgh might not be the first cities that come to mind when you think of "friendly," that is exactly what they are. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason; people in this state are genuinely warm and helpful. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers rated it very highly. Look lost Most likely, a friendly local will offer assistance.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It is culturally rich and has a relaxed atmosphere. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people 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 communities, and its residents are known for their warm hospitality. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is straightforward. The citizens of Georgia were viewed favorably 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. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation as a welcoming and friendly place for visitors.

Illinois is a state in the center of the United States's Midwest, and its residents are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet. When compared to New York City, Chicago is widely regarded as the more welcoming destination. According to Neighborhood Scout, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a relatively pleasant 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 one another, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. Becoming proficient in the "one finger" wave while behind the wheel will make you feel like a native in no time.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. While Louisiana is home to a wide variety of cultures, its residents all share a commitment to making the state 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. The locals are friendly and will gladly recommend their favorite restaurant or bar to visitors. There are many options for children and families to enjoy themselves.

With Hawaii's strong emphasis on tourism, guests are well taken care of in every aspect of their stay. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet will give you a friendly smile, as if living in paradise actually has a positive effect on your mental health.

This is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and it's not just because Oklahoma City is called "The Big Friendly." The locals here are always up for a chat and will do whatever they can to protect their own. When guests come to visit, they are treated with the same warmth and hospitality.

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 friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

With its progressive culture and welcoming locals, Colorado is a great vacation destination. It's a great place to bring the kids, there's a ton of interesting history to learn about, and vacationers will quickly feel at home here. Whether you're in the city of Denver or out in the country, the warmth of the people here is something you'll notice right away.

Hoosier residents take great pride in their "Hoosier hospitality," which is known nationally. The locals have a positive demeanor and an entertaining 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 cities, 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 bother getting out of the car. Most likely, 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 United States. The locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home, as if you'd traveled to one of the smaller towns that surround them.

Famously warm and friendly, South Carolinians make for a pleasant visit. 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. Combine that with one of the most active music scenes in the country, and it's easy to see why this is such a welcoming place to live.

Among the states in the United States, which one do residents rate as the friendliest? 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 and numerous visitor-friendly attractions.