America's 50 Friendliest States, Ranked

The locals (especially those in the upstate) may come off as rude at It's true that New York City can be overwhelming at first, but if you give it time, you'll find that each of the five boroughs has distinct neighborhoods with a strong sense of community. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while 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 leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

Even though 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? That's one of the worst rankings for any US state

The people of Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, but their apathy toward tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts isn't exactly one of the friendliest states in America if its residents have a tendency to ignore each other. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to an outsider, can take years.

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. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

Consistently placing high on lists of environmentally-friendly states, Washington is a different story when it comes to its residents. There is a "polite but unfriendly" vibe among locals, hence the nickname "Seattle freeze," though nobody in the city would ever intentionally be rude. 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. Getting along with the locals can be challenging due to their stubbornness, and the area's sparse rural population.

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. Individual Nevadans may not go out of their way to assist a 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 some catching up to do.

Unless you've lived in Rhode Island all your life, you probably won't be accepted as a true local. According to Big 7 Travel readers, Rhode Islanders aren't particularly hospitable. While the local cashier is more likely to smile in a smaller town, this is not the case in larger cities.

Although most people in California would like to believe that they have a reputation for being friendly, our readers would disagree. If you're looking for a place where you'll feel welcome and safe in a big city, Los Angeles isn't it. In contrast to the hectic pace of the big city, life in a smaller metropolis tends to be more relaxed

It's not like the people of Arizona are as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. Instead, it's a pleasant indifference to other people.

The people of Connecticut are friendly and polite if a bit reticent. In any case Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. While not the most culturally rich state, its residents are able to come together at open mike nights and other community events.

Although Alaska is quite remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, so locals are always happy to see visitors. Most people in this area, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived here at some point. They may do so, or they may 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. They are pleasant enough without inviting you to their homes for tea. All the towns have a good sense of humor and welcome visitors with open arms.

Increased diversity is making Virginia an even more inviting and friendly place to live. Washington, D.C., is a cultural mecca, but some may view the area as conservative and wary of outsiders. C and other major cities, it's a great place to live.

The people of Vermont are known for their warm and welcoming demeanor, making it simple to strike up conversations with complete strangers. Locals will go above and beyond to assist tourists because the industry is so important to the economy. Residents of small Vermont towns may take some time to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, they'll treat them like long-lost friends.

Persons residing in North Carolina are known for their polite demeanor, willingness to assist others, and friendliness toward tourists and fellow citizens. Greetings are commonplace in public places like Walmart and parking lots, or even while waiting at a red light. One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

Utahns are known for their warmth and hospitality, so you'll quickly feel at home here. It is widely acknowledged that Salt Lake City is one of the most welcoming large cities in the United States for the LGBTQ community.

Our readers seem to agree that the low crime rate and welcoming nature of Mainers contribute to the state's popularity as a relocation destination. People from New England tend to have a reputation for being quiet and reserved, but Mainers are known for being friendly and outgoing. Once you get here, you'll notice this right away.

Some of the warmest and most friendly people you'll encounter in your travels across the United States will be West Virginians. The relaxed rhythm of life here makes for a friendly environment. There is a tight-knit sense of community in West Virginia because the state is essentially walled off from the rest of the country by mountains.

People in Iowa are known for being friendly and helpful to one another, and it's not uncommon to see them greet complete strangers as they pass one another on the street or wave at passing cars. There is a genuine sense of community, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

Despite the state's reputation for friendliness, some major cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor can be extremely difficult to connect with. The locals are known for their laid-back demeanor, good sense of humor, and Midwest-style politeness.

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. 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 bright spot in the Midwest, with friendly locals who value their community and a positive outlook on life. People in Green Bay are exceptionally pleasant to be around because it is one of the happiest cities in America. Is there a chance it's connected to the Packers?

The low population and tourist volume in this state have nothing to do with the quality of its residents. In North Dakota, people are friendly and helpful, even if they don't get anything in return. The state received high marks from our readers for its friendly atmosphere.

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. Since it also ranks as the most pet-friendly state in the USA, Fido is more than welcome here, too.

Typical of the South, Mississippi exudes a warm and welcoming vibe. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. If you refrain from bragging about how great it is "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like family.

Missourians are notorious for launching into lengthy monologues before you've even said hello. 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 the country if you follow that simple rule. To be polite, random people will do things like hold the door open or help you carry your groceries to your car.

South Dakota is home to a wide variety of thriving, progressive communities populated by actively involved and hospitable people. People here will strike up casual 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."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are friendly. No matter if you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, the friendly locals will make you feel at home. You'll want to make a quick decision to relocate to Kentucky because of the unique warmth of its people.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually are. Indeed, the slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason; locals here are among the friendliest people you'll ever meet. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost There is a good chance that a friendly local will assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It's chill and full of different cultures. Additionally, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people In any case, there it is.

In a town of only 10 people, This southern state has a population of over 3 million, and its residents are known for their warm hospitality. The state is home to both rural and urban areas. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people here is simple. Most of the Big 7 Travel readers who visited Georgia found it to be a pleasant experience.

The people of Idaho have been voted the friendliest in the country, confirming what you've probably heard from others. There is a genuine friendliness among the locals, and it is not accompanied by intrusive small talk. Idaho's reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors is well-deserved.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to incredibly warm and welcoming people. The number of tourists visiting Chicago annually exceeds that of New York City. Also, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

People from 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 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. 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.

Ohioans are known for their good manners and upbeat outlook on life. The locals have an open mind and are happy to recommend their favorite restaurant or bar to visitors. It's also fantastic for families, as there are many events and attractions geared specifically toward children.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. It is celebrated worldwide for its "Aloha Spirit." Everyone here seems happy all the time, so it's safe to assume that paradise does something good for the spirit.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. Folks here are always up for a chat and will do whatever they can to protect their neighborhood. Visitors can expect the same warm reception.

Tourists 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. It's a great place to visit because locals are so welcoming to tourists.

Because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals, Colorado is a great vacation destination. It's great for taking the kids, has a ton of interesting history, and will have you feeling like a native in no time. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

Hoosiers in the state of Indiana are known far and wide for their generous "Hoosier hospitality," in which they consistently go out of their way to make others' experiences better. The locals have a positive disposition and a great sense of humor. The Hoosier State is more than just a "fly over" area, and after visiting you'll always remember Indiana as a special place.

People in Wyoming make it a lively and entertaining destination, despite the state's reputation for relative tranquility. Even in major metropolitan areas, it is not uncommon for a complete stranger to offer assistance with tasks such as shoveling snow or carrying groceries. Don't bother getting out of the car. Most likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" This state's reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has undoubtedly earned it a spot among the top ten friendliest in the United States 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. As with many other Southern states, South Carolina is famous for its warm welcome and generous residents.

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

Finally, the winner among the most welcoming U.S. 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.