Best 50 States to Live In

Some of the locals (especially those in the upstate) may come off as rude at 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. However, you shouldn't linger in the street or impede traffic while taking photos for Instagram.

If you're from Arkansas, and I stress if, you'll find the locals to be very welcoming. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it can make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong.

Although the entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes by car, the people living there are hardly neighborly. Does our audience automatically associate Delaware with unfriendliness because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? One of the least welcoming states in the USA, unfortunately.

People in MA aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference to tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts isn't exactly one of the friendliest states in America if its residents are characterized by their tendency to ignore one another. Becoming a full-fledged resident of Boston rather than viewed as a temporary visitor 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 People from New Jersey tend to be very forthright and bold. In any case, the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will do what they can to help you out by pumping your gas.

Washington state may be near the top of lists of environmentally-friendly states, but that doesn't mean its residents are. People in Seattle aren't outright unfriendly, but there is a distinct "polite but unfriendly" vibe that has earned the city the nickname "Seattle freeze." Possibly the constant precipitation is to blame.

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. Locals tend to be unyielding, and the area's low population density and lack of urban centers can make it difficult to make new friends.

Nevada, home of Sin City, is a state of extremes. The friendly atmosphere of cities like Reno makes a nice change from the cutthroat atmosphere of Las Vegas. 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 many 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 your whole life, you probably won't be accepted as a true local. The residents of Rhode Island weren't very high on the 'friendly scale' according to Big 7 Travel readers. Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere you go.

Readers of this publication disagree with the widespread belief that Californians are a friendly bunch. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. Towns and villages have a more relaxed vibe.

Arizona certainly doesn't have the Southern-style openness, but the locals are generally chill. 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.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. Maybe not as much 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.

Though Alaska is 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. It's either that or they'll completely ignore you; either way, they're 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. Each town has its own unique sense of humor and welcomes visitors with open arms.

With its increasing diversity, Virginia is becoming an even more inviting and friendly place to live. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C and other major cities, it's a promising location.

Vermonters are known for their warm and welcoming demeanor, making it simple to strike up conversations with complete strangers. Generally, because tourism is so important, residents will go out of their way to accommodate guests. Newcomers to rural Vermont may have to wait a while before they are fully accepted, but once they are, they have a lifetime of friends to look forward to.

As a whole, people in North Carolina are polite, helpful, and welcoming. Just about anywhere, from Walmart to the parking lot to a stoplight, you'll hear someone say "hi." One of the best things about the state is the diversity of its residents.

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 also happens to be one of the most welcoming cities for the LGBTQ community.

Our readership seems to agree that Mainers' warmth and the state's low crime rate make it an attractive place to settle down. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are friendly and outgoing. That's the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. The laid-back lifestyle here creates a friendly environment. 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.

Iowans have a reputation for friendliness and generosity, as evidenced by their frequent use of "how are yous" and "hellos" in passing pedestrians. There is a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

Even though Michiganders like to think of themselves as a welcoming and sociable 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.

Maryland has a large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states. Having no barriers to entry, it is a lively and social place to spend some time with friends or meet new people. In a Baltimore bar, you are guaranteed to meet some of your new best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest, with its pleasant residents known for their politeness, strong sense of community, and positive outlook. Given that Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in America, it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

You won't find many people living here or tourists passing through, but that has nothing to do with the quality of the people who do call it home. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and generosity. In terms of community, the state received overwhelmingly positive ratings from our readers.

People in Oregon are known for being friendly and welcoming to visitors. Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to break into, but the people there are nice, I swear. You can bring your dog along because it is the most pet-friendly state in the USA.

The state of Mississippi is absolutely lovely, full of warm hospitality and delicious Southern cuisine. The friendliness of Mississippians is often a pleasant surprise to visitors. Once you refrain from bragging about how much better life is "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like one of the family.

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 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 rule of thumb. People are so nice that they will help you with things like holding the door open and 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. This town is the epitome of "Midwestern nice."

No matter what you're going through, people in Kentucky will treat you with kindness. No matter if you're a lifelong resident or a tourist, you can expect the same warm reception from the locals. 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; people here are truly friendly. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost A friendly local will likely assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It has a chill atmosphere and a wide variety of ethnic and cultural influences. Also, two New Mexico cities made it into the Top 20 Retirement Cities for LGBT people in 2018. Well, there you have it.

An area with a population of 10 This state in the southern United States is home to 3 million people and features a diverse collection of urban and rural communities, as well as welcoming residents. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Those who read the Big 7 Travel report on Georgia thought it was wonderful.

Repeatedly, you will hear that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country; our readers agree. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. The state of Idaho is just as welcoming and friendly as its reputation suggests.

Illinois, located in the middle of the United States, is home to incredibly warm and welcoming people. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. Illinois is a great tourist destination because it is home to 19 of the safest cities in America, as ranked by Neighborhood Scout.

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 out, creating a strong sense of community. Become an almost native driver by learning the "one finger" wave.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. Despite its ethnic diversity, Louisiana is a great place to live because of its welcoming and welcoming people.

The people of Ohio are well-known for their good manners and upbeat outlook on 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.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. It must be good for the spirit to reside in paradise, because everyone you meet will greet you with a friendly smile.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. These folks 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. Because locals are so welcoming to visitors, the state is stunning.

Colorado is a great state to visit because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals. It's great for taking the kids, has a ton of interesting things to do, and will have you feeling more at home in no time. Friendly people are easy to find in Denver and the surrounding area.

Indiana residents take great pride in their famously generous "Hoosier hospitality," which is known worldwide. People in this area tend to be friendly and humorous. If you think of Indiana as a "fly over" state, think again.

The people of Wyoming are what really make this state exciting, even if it is a relatively quiet place. People in even the largest cities often go out of their way to help strangers, whether it's digging a car out of the snow or carrying groceries. Don't bother getting out of the car. Hopefully, everything will be fine.

Locals in Texas are always upbeat and ready with a "Howdy" or "Howdy, neighbor!" Its reputation for welcoming visitors everywhere you go has undoubtedly helped it become 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.

The people of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which is one of the reasons the state is so enjoyable to visit. South Carolina has the warm hospitality and friendly people for which the South is famous in abundance.

Tennessee is the epitome of classic Southern hospitality, and its citizens are always excited to show visitors around. When you consider that it also has a thriving music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's most welcoming states.

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.