List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially upstate) could come off as a little rude. Even if you don't like the crowds (New York City is a cultural melting pot, after all), the neighborhoods in each of the five boroughs have a sense of community if you stick around for a while. Simply don't linger in the street or impede traffic while snapping photos for Instagram.

If you're a local in Arkansas, the locals will treat you like family. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong.

Although the state of Delaware is relatively compact (it takes only about 90 minutes to drive from one end to the other), its size does not necessarily equate to neighborliness. What makes our readers assume that Delaware is unwelcoming? Is it its (possibly unfair) reputation as boring? Sadly, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

It's not that people in MA are rude, but their general lack of interest in interacting with tourists can be wearing. Massachusetts is not exactly one of the friendliest states in America due to its residents' propensity for ignoring them. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, can take years.

An attitude typical of Jersey residents can come across as rude. In fact, according to the results of this poll, that appears to be the situation The state's residents are known for being bold and forthright. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

Although Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, when it comes to its residents, things are quite different. Seattleites aren't outright unfriendly, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe. The constant precipitation could be to blame, after all.

New Hampshire is a stunning state full of devoted citizens who take great pride in their home. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. 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, home of Sin City, is a state of striking contrasts. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend time in. Generally speaking, Nevadans are not very 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. While Orlando and its tourist-friendly initiatives are doing a lot to boost the state's reputation, 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. A majority of Big 7 Travel readers did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendliness scale." Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

Many of our readers do not agree with the widespread belief that Californians are particularly friendly, despite the state's widespread promotion of this When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. Relaxed lifestyles can be found in smaller towns.

Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are chill enough to overlook this. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. There's a pleasant lack of concern for other people's feelings.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. It's not that People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they'll still open doors for you and greet you if you happen to pass by. Even though it's not the most culturally active state, its residents still manage to have fun at open mike nights and other gatherings.

Though Alaska is remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, so locals are always happy to see visitors. Except for Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of current residents here are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are 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. The townspeople joke around and treat visitors with friendliness.

More and more people from all walks of life are settling in Virginia, giving the state a warm and inviting vibe. Washington, D.C. is a cultural hub, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C and other major cities make it a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being open and friendly, making it an ideal place to meet new people. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. People in Vermont's smaller communities may take some time to warm up to newcomers, but 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 reception of guests. Anyone can be approached with a "hi" in almost any public place, be it a Walmart, a parking lot, or even while waiting at a red light. One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

The locals in Utah are known for their warm hospitality, so you'll quickly feel at ease here. Being one of the most LGBTQ-friendly major cities in the United States, Salt Lake City is a wonderful place to live if you're looking for a lively and social environment.

Readers agree that Maine is a desirable place to live because of its low crime rate and welcoming population. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are friendly and outgoing. This is 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 relaxed tempo of life here creates a friendly environment. In West Virginia, the community is tight-knit because the state's mountains serve as a buffer between the state and the rest of the country.

Iowans have a reputation for friendliness and kindness, as evidenced by their frequent use of "howdy" and "how are you" greetings in public. 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. In addition to being hospitable and laid-back, typical Midwesterners also have a good sense of humor.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. 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 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 the country. Have the Packers played a role in this at all?

One of the least populous and least visited states in the United States, and it has nothing to do with the friendly locals there. In North Dakota, people are friendly and helpful, even if they don't get anything in return. The state received high marks from our readers for its friendly atmosphere.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to break into, but the people there are nice, I swear. It also has the highest percentage of pet-friendly households in the United States.

When it comes to Southern hospitality, Mississippi is hard to beat. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. The locals are extremely friendly, and they will make you feel at home as long as you refrain from bragging about how much better life is "up North."

Before you've even said "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy recounting of their life experiences. People here are genuine in both their friendliness and interest in the perspectives of total strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you with nothing but kindness if you maintain a positive disposition. You'll find that Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you just remember that one rule. People you don't know will go out of their way to help you, such as holding the door open or carrying your groceries to your car.

South Dakota is home to many progressive, forward-thinking towns whose engaged and friendly residents are shaping the state's bright future. The culture here encourages open conversation between strangers, even in the largest cities. To many outsiders, the residents of this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern Nice."

There is always a friendly face 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 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 phrase "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. It received high marks from our readers for the amount of assistance it provided from total strangers. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Friendly locals are a common sight in New Mexico's many small towns. Relaxed and rich in cultural variety. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people So there you go.

With only ten people, There are 3 million people in this state in the southern United States, and while they may live in one of the many different types of neighborhoods, they are all very welcoming. Even in major metropolitan areas like Atlanta, getting to know locals is a breeze. Readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

People from all over the country will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest you'll meet, and our readers agree. True friendliness among the populace, without the intrusiveness As a state, Idaho truly lives up to its reputation for genuine friendliness and openness to visitors.

Locationally, Illinois is right in the middle of the Midwest, and its people are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet. 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.

Among the states in the United States, Nebraska is home to some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. There's a real sense of community here, with people pitching in to help one another. If you can master the "one finger" wave while behind the wheel, you'll feel like a true 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.

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. There are many options for children and families to enjoy themselves.

There is a strong emphasis on tourism in Hawaii, which means that guests are well taken care of in terms of hospitality. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. 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," has earned that moniker for good reason. Locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. The hospitality they show locals extends to strangers.

Be ready to strike up conversations with complete strangers, as visitors from other states may be taken aback by the famous Kansas friendliness. 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 families, there's lots to do, and newcomers will quickly feel at home among the friendly locals. You can feel the friendliness of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

In Indiana, residents 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.

Although Wyoming is a relatively calm state, its residents make it a great place to visit. Even in large cities, it is not unusual for a stranger to offer assistance with tasks such as unsticking your car from snow or carrying groceries. The car keys are still in the ignition. Most likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its reputation as one of the most welcoming states in the United States is due in no small part to its residents' willingness to greet visitors everywhere they go. 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 embodies the Southern tradition of warm welcome with gusto.

Tennessee is a great example of the classic Southern charm that has made the South so popular, with friendly, outgoing locals who are eager to show off their city to visitors. One of the most welcoming states in America, thanks in large part to its thriving music scene.

And the winner is among America's friendliest states 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 have an inviting warmth and go out of their way to make visitors feel at home.