Best 50 States to Live In

At first glance, locals (especially those in the upstate) 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. Please don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), the locals will treat you well. And while that bodes well for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling awkward and unwelcome.

Even though the state of Delaware is relatively compact and can be traversed in under an hour and a half, 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? One of the least welcoming states in the USA, unfortunately.

Even though most people in Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, the general apathy they exhibit toward tourists can be wearing. Massachuetts' tendency to ignore its citizens is hardly indicative of a state that ranks highly in terms of friendliness in the United States. Becoming a recognized member of the Boston community rather than viewed as a temporary resident can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. According to the results of this poll, that appears to be the case. The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

Although Washington State typically performs well on lists of environmentally-friendly states, it fares much worse when the focus shifts to its residents. Locals aren't rude, but they do give off a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, hence the name "Seattle freeze." Perhaps it's the deluge of rain we've been having

It's a beautiful state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage and their home. 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.

Nevada, where Sin City is located, 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 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.

There's a good chance that anyone who wasn't raised in Rhode Island would always feel like an outsider there. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendly scale." You'll get a warmer welcome in smaller communities, but don't expect the cashier at your local supermarket to crack a smile.

Readers of this publication disagree with the widespread belief that Californians are particularly friendly. The people of Los Angeles aren't exactly the most welcoming, giving off an air of disinterestedness that sometimes crosses into outright rudeness. Less hectic lifestyles can be found in smaller towns.

Although the locals in Arizona lack the Southerners' blatant friendliness, they are usually relaxed enough to not be a major distraction. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. As a whole, it's a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their politeness, reserve, and general niceness. To a lesser extent People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they'll still open doors and greet you if you ask. Not the most culturally rich state, but open mike nights and other community gatherings help keep people connected.

Despite the state's remote location, Alaska relies heavily on tourism, and 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 this 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 massive size, the entire state has the feel of a single large town. It's unlikely that anyone will invite you over for tea, but you'll find that these people are friendly. Tourists and other visitors are met with a warm welcome and friendly banter between the cities.

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

Most people in North Carolina are polite, helpful, and welcoming. In any public place, such as a supermarket, a parking lot, or even while waiting for a red light to turn green, you can expect to hear at least one person say "hi." One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

Utahns are well-known for their warmth and hospitality, so you'll quickly feel at ease in your new surroundings. 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.

All in all, our readers seem to agree that Maine is a great place to call home due to its low crime rate and warm, welcoming community. 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.

When traveling across the United States, you'll find that West Virginians are among the most warm and friendly people you'll encounter. It's easygoing lifestyle creates a friendly environment. Due in part to the state's geographical isolation, West Virginia is home to a tight-knit community.

Iowans have a reputation for friendliness and kindness due to their habit of greeting complete strangers with a smile and a hello whenever they pass one another on the street. There is a genuine sense of community, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares 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. People here have a good sense of humor, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

As one of the most populous states in the country, Maryland is also culturally rich. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving, social atmosphere. 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 welcoming. Was it possibly related to the Packers?

There's no reason to believe that the state's low population and low tourism numbers are due to the quality of its residents. People in North Dakota are known for being approachable and helpful, often without any sort of payment or reward being expected in return. According to your ratings, the community spirit in this state is very strong.

People in Oregon have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming. 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.

Mississippi is an endearing state full of homey touches typical of the South. Visitors to Mississippi are often taken aback by the warmth of its locals. Once you stop trying to convince them that life is better "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like you always belonged there.

Before you've even said "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy recounting of their life experiences. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you with nothing but kindness if you maintain a positive disposition. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that rule of thumb. Just because they want to be nice, strangers will do nice things like hold the door open and help you carry your groceries to your car.

It's easy to find a progressive, forward-thinking community full of involved and welcoming residents in South Dakota. There is a strong culture of open conversation, even in the largest cities. Topics range from the weather to sports. 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 meet friendly people in Kentucky. No matter if you're a lifelong resident or a tourist, you can expect the same warm welcome from the locals. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians will have you packing your bags and heading south right away.

Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are two cities that might not immediately spring to mind when you think of "friendly cities," but that's not how they really are at all. 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 assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost The average friendly local will probably offer assistance.

Almost everywhere you go in New Mexico, you'll find friendly locals. The atmosphere is chill and the range of cultures represented is impressive. In addition, two New Mexico cities were among the 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. So there you go.

With only ten people, Despite its size (3 million), this state in the southern United States has a very welcoming population. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

Readers overwhelmingly agreed that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country. The locals are genuinely warm and welcoming, and not in a creepy, prying way. The state of Idaho is as welcoming and friendly to visitors as its reputation suggests.

Illinois is located in the center of the Midwest, and its residents are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet. Chicago is widely regarded as one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the United States, rivaling or even surpassing New York City. Also, 19 of the safest cities in the United States can be found in Illinois, making it a great state for tourists.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. Strong community spirit permeates the air, with people of all ages and backgrounds pitching in to help one another. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in just like a native.

Despite the recent natural disasters, the locals here will do anything 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. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or watering hole to visitors. It's also a fantastic destination for families, as there are many fun things to do here with children.

The hospitality industry in Hawaii is highly developed due to the state's strong focus on tourism. 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 always look out for their own. The hospitality they show locals extends to strangers.

Kansas is known for its welcoming residents and visitors alike, so don't be surprised if you strike up a conversation with a complete stranger. The warmth and friendliness of the locals to visitors is one of the state's greatest attractions.

Having some of the friendliest people in the world, Colorado is a great place to visit thanks to its progressive culture. It's great for families, there's a ton to do culturally, and vacationers will quickly begin to feel at home. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

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. Indiana is more than just a "fly over" state; after visiting, you'll always remember it as home.

Even though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. 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 coming back to get the keys. Likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their "Howdys" have a reputation for being outgoing and positive. Its reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has helped make it one of the friendliest states in the United States. Despite its size, the people in its major cities will make you feel like you've arrived in a friendly small town.

The people of South Carolina are known far and wide for their warmth and hospitality, which is just one of the many reasons the state is a great vacation destination. South Carolina embodies the Southern tradition of warmth and friendliness that has made the region famous.

Classical Southern hospitality is alive and well in Tennessee, where the people are friendly and excited to show off their hometown. It's already one of the most welcoming places in America, but when you factor in the exciting music scene, you can see why.

The most welcoming state in the United States is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state wins. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the Twin Cities and surrounding areas exude a genuine friendliness and hospitality that are hard to find elsewhere.