Here Are America's 50 Friendliest States, Ranked

At first glance, locals (especially those in the countryside) could New York City may seem 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. Only, don't linger in the street or impede traffic while snapping 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.

Although the entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes by car, the people living there are hardly neighborly. How much of our readers' negative impressions of Delaware come from the state's (possibly exaggerated) reputation as boring? One of the least welcoming states in the USA, unfortunately.

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

Oftentimes, New Jerseyans' demeanor comes across as downright rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case New Jersey residents are notoriously forthright. The (likely) unfriendly station attendant, however, will pump your gas for you.

When it comes to environmental friendliness, Washington state may consistently rank high, but when it comes to people, it's a different story. This "polite but unfriendly" atmosphere is what gives Seattle its nickname, "the Seattle freeze," even though the locals themselves aren't rude. Perhaps it's all the wet weather

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. The residents are known to be unyielding, and the area's low population density and lack of people in general can make it difficult to make friends.

The state of Nevada, where Sin City is located, is a land of extremes. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. Residents of the Silver State typically aren't willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida has its work cut out for it if Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least friendly cities in America. Orlando's tourist-friendly initiatives are a huge boon to the state, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go before its reputation catches up.

Many Rhode Islanders have a hard time accepting anyone who wasn't raised there. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the magazine's "friendly scale." Although local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, this is not the case in larger cities.

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. It's easier to take it easy in a smaller city.

There's no denying that Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are chill enough to make up for it. If you're waiting in line, you can expect to strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't count on any huge grins being exchanged. This attitude is more of a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut tend to be friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and polite demeanor. This is not the case. Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. The state isn't exactly a hotbed of artistic expression, but open mike nights and other community gatherings do their part to keep people connected.

Despite the state of Alaska's infrastructure, the tourism industry is thriving, and locals are eager to meet 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. In spite of its considerable size, the entire state has the feel of a single large town. No one will invite you over for tea, but they're still a nice person. Communities joke and tease one another in a way that is both fun and welcoming to visitors.

Virginia's growing diversity is making the state even more hospitable and inviting to newcomers. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some might say that its residents are too traditional and too wary of strangers. C It's a great place to live because of its proximity to other major cities.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place to make new friends. As tourism is a major industry, residents are generally eager to assist guests. Newcomers to Vermont's smaller communities may have to wait a while before they're fully accepted, but once they do, they'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. Wherever two people are in close proximity, they will inevitably exchange "hi's," whether they're in Walmart, the parking lot, or waiting for a red light to change. Among the many great things about this state is the eclectic mix of people who call it home.

The locals in Utah are well-known for their warm hospitality, so you'll quickly feel at ease here. Among the most social and lively cities in the United States, Salt Lake City also happens to be one of the most welcoming to the LGBTQ community.

Our readers agree that Maine is a desirable place to settle because of its low crime rate and welcoming population. Contrary to popular belief, Mainers are not as reserved as their New England counterparts. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

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. 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.

The people of Iowa have a reputation for friendliness and kindness, especially in urban areas where they frequently engage in small talk with passers-by and offer a friendly wave. 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.

Maryland has a large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states. Given its welcoming nature toward strangers, it is a lively and engaging place to spend some time with friends and strangers alike. If you go to a bar in Baltimore, you're bound to meet some people you become fast friends with.

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. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

This may be one of the least-visited and least-populated states in the United States, but that has nothing to do with the quality of its residents. People from North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without seeking anything in return. In terms of community, the state received overwhelmingly positive ratings from our readers.

The people of Oregon have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming. Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to break into, but the people there are nice, I swear. If you're bringing your dog, they'll be welcome here, too, because it's the most pet-friendly state in the country.

Mississippi is a beautiful state brimming with genuine Southern hospitality. Foreigners are often taken aback by the warm welcome they receive in Mississippi. 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'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 in Alabama will treat you with kindness if you treat them with kindness first. 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.

There are many progressive, forward-thinking communities in South Dakota that are home to enthusiastic and welcoming residents. Unlike in other countries, even in the largest cities here, people are not shy about striking up conversations with total strangers about anything from the weather to the latest game. The residents of this region are the epitome of the term "Midwestern nice."

You'll find that Kentuckians, regardless of their background or circumstances, are a friendly bunch. 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 you pack your bags and head here right away.

You might not immediately associate cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh with friendliness, but you'd be wrong. The phrase "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. To the extent that random people can be helpful, our readers rated it highly. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

To a person, New Mexicans are generally warm and welcoming. Cultures from all over the world coexist peacefully here. As an added bonus, two New Mexico cities made it into the Top 20 LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in 2018. So there you go.

The town has a total of 10 residents. With a population of over 3 million people, this state in the southern United States is a fascinating blend of rural and urban areas. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is straightforward. Those who read the Big 7 Travel report on Georgia thought it was great.

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. It's true that Idahoans are known for their friendliness and willingness to help strangers.

You can't get more Midwestern than Illinois, and the people there couldn't be friendlier. When compared to New York City, Chicago is widely regarded as the more welcoming destination for international visitors. Also, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. You can feel the strong sense of community wherever you go because of all the people who are willing to help each other out. Acquiring the skill of the "one finger" wave while behind the wheel 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. 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. It is easy to make friends with locals, and they will gladly show you around their favorite restaurant or bar. It's also fantastic for families, as there are many events geared specifically toward children.

As a state with a strong focus on tourism, Hawaii provides excellent service to its guests. This place is famous for its "Aloha Spirit." Everyone you meet in paradise will give you a friendly hello, as if paradise itself could cure your emotional ills.

You can tell that Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the country by visiting Oklahoma City, also known as "The Big Friendly." The locals are always up for a chat and 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. People in this state have such a warm welcome attitude toward tourists, it makes visiting this state a dream.

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 taking the kids, has a ton of interesting things to do, and will have you feeling more at home 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.

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 are pleasant, humorous people. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana is so much more than a "fly over" state.

Even though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. 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 even bother coming back for your keys. Most likely, it will arrive undamaged.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its welcoming culture and "everywhere you go" vibe have undoubtedly earned it a spot among the top amiable U.S. states. The locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

Residents of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which contributes to the state's reputation as a pleasant vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

That classic Southern charm is in full swing in Tennessee, where locals have a buzzing attitude and an eagerness to show off their city to out-of-towners One of the most welcoming states in America, thanks in large part to its thriving music scene.

Also, the winner of the competition between the friendliest states in America 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 Twin Cities and surrounding areas have an inviting, friendly vibe that's hard to find elsewhere.