Here Are America's 50 Friendliest States, Ranked

In the beginning, locals (especially those living in the upstate) may 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. Taking pictures for Instagram is fine, but not if it means blocking the sidewalk or making other drivers wait.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), you'll find the locals to be extremely welcoming. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and the friendly atmosphere among its residents, it may leave visitors with a bad impression.

Although 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? It's one of the states with the lowest friendliness ratings in the country.

The people of Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, but their apathy toward tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts isn't going to be on anyone's list of the friendliest states in America if its residents have a tendency to ignore them. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, rather than a tourist, can take years.

Some people may interpret the Jersey way of life as rudeness. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case People from New Jersey tend to be more outspoken than those from other states. The gas station attendant may not be very friendly, but at least they'll pump your gas for you.

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 they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe that's given rise to the term "Seattle freeze." It could be the precipitation, I suppose.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. That self-respect, however, is often misread as arrogance by those from the outside looking in. The locals are known to be obstinate, and the area's low population density and widespread farmland can make it difficult to make new friends.

Nevada, where Sin City is located, is a state of striking contrasts. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. Generally speaking, Nevadans are not very willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida has its work cut out for it, as Miami is consistently ranked as one of the unfriendliest cities in the United States. Cities like Orlando, with their tourist-friendly initiatives, are doing a lot to improve 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. Readers of Big 7 Travel didn't give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendliness scale." While the local cashier is more likely to smile in a smaller town, this is not the case in larger cities.

Even though many people in California take pride in their reputation as being welcoming, our readers tend to disagree. When it comes to making guests feel at home, Los Angeles is no City of Angels, instead giving off an air of coldness and even hostility. Relaxed lifestyles 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. 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.

The people of Connecticut are friendly, if a bit reserved. That's not the case at all Although New Englanders have a reputation for being distant, they will still open doors for you and greet you warmly. 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 relative isolation, Alaska relies heavily on tourism; consequently, 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 might not respond to you at all, which is not rude, or they might.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their hospitality. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a single large city. No one will invite you over for tea, but they're still a nice person. Friendly banter between cities, with an upbeat outlook on visitors of all kinds.

The Commonwealth of Virginia is becoming increasingly diverse, which has a positive effect on the state's warm and inviting culture. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, despite the fact that some may view it as quite traditional and wary of strangers. C and other major cities, the area is a great place to live.

Making new friends in Vermont is simple because its residents are warm and welcoming. Because tourism is so important to the area's economy, residents are typically eager to go the extra mile to accommodate visitors. While it may take some time for the locals in a small Vermont town to warm up to a newcomer, once they do, you'll have friends for life.

The people who call North Carolina home are known for their politeness, willingness to aid strangers, and warm welcome to visitors. The supermarket, the parking lot, and even the intersection at a red light are just some of the places where you might hear someone say "hi." One of the best features of the state is the diversity of its inhabitants.

Locals in Utah are known for their warm hospitality. 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.

A large majority of our readers agree that Maine is a great place to call home due to its low crime rate and welcoming community. In contrast to the stereotype of the reserved New Englander, warm and friendly Mainers are a welcome sight. When you first step foot in this location, you'll notice this.

The people of West Virginia are known to be among the friendliest and most helpful you'll encounter anywhere in the United States. The laid-back lifestyle here creates 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 is a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and roadside farmers who are eager to chat about their delicious wares.

While most Michiganders like to think of themselves as hospitable, those in Detroit and Ann Arbor in particular can be tough. There is a good sense of humor and a laid-back, polite Midwestern attitude among the locals.

Maryland has a large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving and friendly 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 Midwest thanks to its friendly and polite citizens and their strong sense of community. 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 states in the United States, but that has nothing to do with the quality of its residents. People from North Dakota are known for being friendly and helpful, even if they don't get 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. Sure, it may be difficult to break into Portland's hipster scene, but the people there are nice (I swear!). It also has the highest percentage of pet-friendly households in the United States.

Mississippi is a lovely state full of genuine Southern hospitality. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. Once you stop bragging about how great it is "up North" to the natives, they will treat you like family and treat you like one of the gang.

Before you can even say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy account of their life experiences. 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. If you follow this simple rule, you'll quickly discover that Alabama is among the most welcoming places in the United States. Just because they want to be nice, random people will do nice things for you like hold the door open or help you carry your groceries to your car.

There are many progressive, progressive communities full of engaged and friendly people in South Dakota. Everyone, even in the largest cities, is perfectly comfortable striking up conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to the latest football game. Those who live here are the epitome of the term "Midwestern nice."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll meet friendly people in Kentucky. Friendly locals will greet you with open arms whether you're a lifelong resident or 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 assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Every town in New Mexico has friendly locals. 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, but its residents are warm and welcoming no matter where you go. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know locals is a breeze. It seems that Big 7 travelers enjoyed their time in Georgia.

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 creepy, prying sort of way. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Located in the middle of the United States, Illinois is home to welcoming people. Chicago is arguably more welcoming to tourists than New York City. Illinois is a great tourist destination because it is home to 19 of the safest cities in the United States, as ranked by Neighborhood Scout.

In the United States, you'll find some of the friendliest people in Nebraska. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help each other, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. The ability to wave with just one finger while driving will make you feel like a native in no time.

Recent natural disasters haven't stopped locals from making visitors feel at home here, however. Louisiana is home to people of many different cultures, but they all share a commitment to making their state one of the most welcoming and enjoyable in the United States.

Ohioans are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine enthusiasm for life in the Midwest. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or watering hole to visitors. With so many options geared toward younger visitors, it's also a fantastic destination for families.

Hawaii places a premium on its tourist industry, so visitors are treated like royalty. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet in paradise will greet you with a friendly smile, suggesting that paradise life has a positive effect on the human psyche.

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

Being prepared to strike up a conversation with complete strangers is a must when visiting Kansas, a state known for its hospitable locals and tourists alike. The friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

Colorado is a great state to visit because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals. 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 legendary "Hoosier hospitality," in which they routinely go out of their way to help strangers. The locals have a positive demeanor and an entertaining sense of humor. Even if you've only ever thought of Indiana as a "fly over" state, you should definitely make the trip.

Even though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. Even in large cities, it is not unusual for a stranger to help you carry your groceries or free your stuck car from the snow. Please lock your car and leave the keys inside. Most likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly people of Texas 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. You'll feel right at home among its friendly locals in any of its big cities.

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 exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

Classical Southern hospitality is alive and well in Tennessee, where the people are friendly and excited to show off their hometown. When you factor in the state's thriving music industry, it's easy to see why Texas is consistently ranked as one of the friendliest in the United States.

The most welcoming state in the United States is Minnesotans are the friendliest in the country, so the state wins. The Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have an inviting, friendly vibe that is hard to replicate, and the locals go out of their way to make visitors feel at home.