List of the 50 Friendliest States in the U.S.

The locals (especially those in the upstate) may come off as rude at ), but it's a fascinating cultural crossroads, and if you can make it through the initial shock, you'll find that the neighborhoods in each of the five boroughs of New York City have a strong sense of community. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

For those who call Arkansas home, the welcome mat is always out. Though this bodes well for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

The entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes of driving, but despite its diminutive size, its residents are anything but neighborly. Is it that our readers' perception of Delaware as unwelcoming stems from the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? One of the least welcoming states in the USA, unfortunately.

While most people in Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, the general apathy they exhibit toward tourists can be wearing. A tendency to ignore other people is hardly a quality that would rank Massachusetts among the friendliest states in America. In addition, it takes a considerable amount of time to earn the respect of locals and to feel like you belong in Boston and aren't just a tourist.

An attitude typical of Jersey residents can come across as rude. It appears that is the case in this poll. The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. The gas station attendant may not be very friendly, but at least they'll pump your gas for you.

While Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, it has a much more mixed reputation when it comes to its residents. Though Seattleites don't come across as rude, they do give off a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, earning the city its nickname, "Seattle freeze." Could be the constant downpours.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. But that pride is often misunderstood as arrogance by those from other cultures. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population does not help.

Nevada, home of Sin City, is a state of extremes. In contrast to the cutthroat atmosphere of Las Vegas, more relaxed destinations like Reno offer a more pleasant vacation experience. On the whole, Nevadans are not particularly 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 some catching up to do.

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 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.

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 due to its overall aloof, sometimes rude, vibe. More relaxed lifestyles can be found in smaller towns.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as gregarious as those in the South, but they're usually chill about most things. Waiting in line is the perfect opportunity to strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't hold your breath for any genuine smiles. This attitude is more of a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. Not really People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they'll still open doors and greet you if you ask. 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.

Although Alaska is quite 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. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

We think you'll find Montanans to be some of the friendliest people you meet. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. No one will invite you over for tea, but they're still a nice person. Greetings to visitors are met with a warm welcome and friendly banter between cities.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C positive aspects that are enhanced by its proximity to other major cities

Vermonters are known for being warm and inviting, making it simple to strike up conversations with strangers and make new friends. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. Residents of small Vermont towns may take some time to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, they'll treat them like long-lost friends.

North Carolinians are known for their politeness, friendliness, and willingness to help both visitors and fellow citizens. Even while waiting at a red light, people will often greet one another in the aisles of a Walmart or the parking lot. It's great that people from all over the United States can congregate in this one state.

Utahns are well-known for their warm hospitality, so you'll quickly feel at ease. 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. However, Mainers are known for being friendly and outgoing, in contrast to their New England counterparts' perceived coolness. When you first step foot here, you'll notice this.

Locals in West Virginia are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, making it one of the best places to visit in the United States. A relaxed way of life creates a friendly environment here. 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.

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. Friendly clerks at the register, farmers selling fresh produce on the side of the road, and an overall warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Despite the state's reputation for friendliness, some major cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor can be extremely difficult to connect with. People here have a good sense of humor, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

Population-wise, Maryland is high up there with the rest of the states, and the state is also home to a wide range of cultural traditions. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has become a lively and exciting place to spend time with friends. In a Baltimore bar, you'll likely 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. People in Green Bay are exceptionally pleasant to be around because it is one of the happiest cities in America. Is there a chance it's related to the Packers?

Despite its great people, this is one of the least populated and least visited states in the United States. The people of North Dakota are known for their genuine friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without seeking anything in return. The state received high marks from our readers for its friendly atmosphere.

There is a common perception that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly toward those they have never met before. It may take some time to earn acceptance into Portland's hipster scene, but I promise it's worth it. 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. The friendliness of the locals is often cited as a point of surprise for visitors to Mississippi. 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 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. Follow that guideline, and you'll soon discover that Alabama is among the friendliest states in the Union. A random act of kindness from a stranger can make your day. People will hold the door open and even 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. People here will strike up casual conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, even in the biggest cities. It's safe to say that the residents of this region personify the term "Midwestern Nice."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are always 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. Pennsylvanians are so warm and welcoming that the state's motto, "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania," was coined for this very reason. For its helpfulness from total strangers, our readers gave it high marks. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It's chill and full of different cultures. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people Now you know

Assuming a population of 10, 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 major metropolitan areas like Atlanta, forming meaningful relationships with locals is a breeze. According to Big 7 Travel readers, Georgia is wonderful.

Innumerable readers agreed with the widespread belief that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country. Actually, the locals are quite pleasant, and not in a stalkerish way. Idaho's reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors is well-deserved.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to incredibly welcoming locals. Chicago is widely regarded as one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the United States, rivaling or even surpassing New York City. It's also a pretty good state to visit: 19 of the safest cities in America are located in Illinois.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. Almost anywhere you look, you'll find people pitching in to help one another, creating a strong sense of community. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in like a native.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. 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.

State of Ohio is a model of Midwestern civility and genuine goodwill toward neighbors. 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.

Tourism is Hawaii's main industry, so guests can expect exceptional service. The "Aloha Spirit" is what makes Hawaii famous. The friendly disposition of the locals suggests that paradise has a healing 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. Folks here are always up for a chat and will do whatever they can to protect their neighborhood. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Visitors from other states may be taken aback by the famous friendliness of Kansans, so they should be ready to strike up conversations with complete strangers. The warmth and friendliness of the locals towards tourists is what makes their state so special.

Because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals, Colorado is a great vacation destination. Visitors quickly begin to feel like natives in this secure and culturally rich destination. 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 routinely go out of their way to help strangers. The locals are pleasant, humorous people. 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 is not uncommon for a stranger to offer assistance with tasks such as unsticking your car from snow or carrying groceries. Please lock your car and leave the keys inside. Most likely, everything will be fine.

Native Texans are very friendly, and they frequently say "Howdy" to visitors. Its reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has helped make it 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.

Famously warm and friendly, South Carolinians make for a pleasant visit. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

Tennessee has that classic Southern charm going strong, with residents who are buzzing with excitement and 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 America's friendliest states.

What's more, 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 people of the Twin Cities and beyond go above and beyond to make visitors feel at home.