An Honourable Mention for the Top 50 Friendliest States in the USA

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. Just don't linger in the street or impede traffic while snapping photos for Instagram.

If you're from here, Arkansas will treat you like family. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

It's true that Delaware is a relatively small state, and that it only takes about 90 minutes to drive across the entire state. Have our readers' perceptions of Delaware's friendliness been colored by the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? 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 may not be the friendliest state in America, but that isn't because its residents are particularly good at ignoring them. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, 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 The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. But at least the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will fill up your tank.

While Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, its reputation among its residents is much more mixed. The people of Seattle are not rude, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, which has earned it the nickname "the Seattle freeze." Possibly it's the deluge of rain we've been having

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misinterpreted 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 state of Nevada, where Sin City is located, is a land of extremes. While Las Vegas can be a dog-eats-dog place to spend some time, places such as Reno are more friendly 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 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 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. Local cashiers are less likely to greet you with a smile in larger cities, but they may do so in smaller ones.

Our readers do not share the common belief that Californians are as sociable as the rest of the country would like to believe. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles is no City of Angels, instead giving off an air of coldness and even hostility. There is a more relaxed atmosphere in smaller towns.

Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are chill enough that you won't mind if you drop in. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. This attitude is more of a pleasant indifference to other people.

In general, Connecticut residents are courteous, reserved, and pleasant; however, they can be downright warm and welcoming to visitors. 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 have fun and get together at open mike nights and other community events.

Despite the state's remote location, Alaska relies heavily on the tourism industry; consequently, locals are always happy to see visitors. In fact, with the exception of Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of the locals here are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point. Either that, or they’ll ignore you, but they’re far from rude

It will come as a pleasant surprise to you how welcoming and friendly people in Montana are. 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.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more hospitable and inviting to newcomers. A cultural mecca, Washington, D.C. may come across as traditional and wary to outsiders. C and the other major cities make it a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place to make new friends. Tourism is huge here, so overall, locals will go out of their way to help visitors to the area Those in small towns in Vermont may be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

Generally, locals of North Carolina are good-mannered, eager to help and friendly to both other locals and visitors alike People will say ‘hi’ just about anywhere: Walmart, the parking lot or even when stopped at a red light One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

As Utahns are well-known for their warm hospitality, you will quickly feel 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. Although New Englanders as a whole have a reputation for being reserved, Mainers are known for their openness and friendliness. Upon your arrival, you'll notice this right away.

The people of West Virginia are known to be among the friendliest and most helpful you'll encounter anywhere in the United States. The relaxed rhythm of life here makes for a friendly environment. The state of West Virginia has a tight-knit community because the mountains serve as a buffer between the state and the rest of the country.

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 their wares on the side of the road.

While the people of Michigan would like to believe that they are a welcoming and sociable lot, those living in Detroit and Ann Arbor, in particular, can be difficult to get along with. The locals have a great sense of humor, are laid back, and are incredibly polite for being from the Midwest.

Maryland's population density is high, and the state is also home to a wide range of cultural traditions. 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 is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in America, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. Is there a chance that it's related to the Packers?

This may be one of the least-visited and least-populated states in the United States, but that has nothing to do with its wonderful residents. The people 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.

The citizens of Oregon are widely known for their friendliness toward total strangers. The Portland hipster scene may be difficult to enter, but the people there are nice, I swear. Your dog is welcome here, too, because it is the most pet-friendly state in the United States.

There's plenty of amiable, down-home wholesomeness in Mississippi. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. The natives are extremely friendly, and they will make you feel at home as long as you refrain from bragging about how great it is back "up North."

People in Missouri will tell you their entire life story before you’ve even had the chance to say ‘hello’ No pretenses, just genuine kindness and interest in one another among 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 rule of thumb. You can count on complete strangers to do nice things for you, like holding the door open or helping you carry your groceries to your car.

In South Dakota, you'll find a wide variety of thriving, progressive communities populated by actively involved, welcoming locals. Here, even in the largest cities, people are comfortable striking up conversations with total strangers about anything from the weather to the latest football game. The residents of this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern Nice."

Whatever the situation, you'll find that Kentuckians are 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 is enough to make anyone consider making the state their permanent home.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually are. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason; the people here are genuinely warm and helpful. In terms of stranger kindness, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

In most of New Mexico's communities, you'll find warm and welcoming locals. It's chill and full of different cultures. New Mexico is home to two cities that were named among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. Well, there you have it.

A town of only 10 people This southern state has a population of 3 million and a diverse landscape of urban and rural areas, but its residents are known for their warm hospitality. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. It seems that Big 7 travelers enjoyed their time in Georgia.

Innumerable readers agreed with the widespread belief that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country. The locals are genuinely warm and welcoming, and not in a stalkerish way. Idaho's reputation for friendliness and openness to 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 meet. Chicago is arguably more tourist-friendly than New York City. Also, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

You won't find nicer people anywhere in the United States than in Nebraska. There's a real sense of community here, with people lending a hand to those in need wherever you look. Learn to master the ‘one finger’ wave while driving, and you’re practically a local

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.

The good manners and genuine friendliness of Ohioans are legendary throughout the Midwest. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or bar to visitors. Also, there are many options for children to enjoy themselves here, making it a fantastic destination for families.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet in paradise will give you a friendly hello, as if paradise itself could heal your soul.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. People are friendly and willing to talk to strangers, and they will always look out for their own. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Expect to strike up conversations with complete strangers, as the famous Kansas friendliness can surprise visitors from other states. The friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

As a progressive state with some of the friendliest people on the planet, Colorado is a great place to visit. It's great for families, there's a ton to see and do, and tourists quickly begin to feel at home in this cultural hotspot. You'll sense the warmth of this place right away, whether you're in 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 are pleasant, humorous people. A single trip to Indiana will convince you that it is so much more than a "fly over" state.

Though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make it a lively and exciting destination. Even in major metropolitan areas, strangers will often help you out if you get stuck in the snow or need assistance carrying groceries. Don't bother getting out of the car. Chances are it will be safe and sound

Friendly Texans always have a "Howdy" ready for you. 'everywhere you go' has undoubtedly contributed to its status as one of the friendliest states in the USA. The locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

The warm hospitality of South Carolinians is well known, and it's one of the reasons the state is so enjoyable to visit. South Carolina has all the friendliness and hospitality associated with the South in spades.

It's easy to see that Tennessee is brimming with that classic Southern charm; the locals there have a positive, upbeat vibe and are eager to show off their city to visitors. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of the most welcoming states in the United States.

The most welcoming state in the United States is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state ranks first. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the people of the Twin Cities and beyond go above and beyond to make visitors feel at home.