List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

Some of the locals (especially those in the upstate) may come off as rude at 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. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), the locals will treat you well. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

While 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? 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 is not exactly one of the friendliest states in America due to its residents' tendency to ignore them. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, can take years.

It's easy to mistake the Jersey way of life for outright rudeness. That appears to be the case, at least according to this survey. People from the Garden State have a reputation for being bold and forthright. However, at least the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will do the pumping for you.

Though Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, when it comes to its residents, things are quite different. Residents of Seattle aren't outright unfriendly, but they do exude a certain "polite but unfriendly" vibe that has earned the city its nickname, "Seattle freeze." Perhaps it's all the wet weather

The people of New Hampshire are extremely patriotic and proud of their state. But that pride is often misunderstood as arrogance by those on the outside. Being a rural area with a stubborn local population, this place is not exactly teeming with opportunities to make new friends.

Nevada, where Sin City is located, is a state of extremes. Las Vegas is a place where "dog eats dog," but neighborly Reno is a better option. Individual Nevadans may not go out of their way to assist a stranger.

The state of 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 image, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go.

Some people who aren't native Rhode Islanders just can't shake the feeling that they don't belong there. Big 7 readers did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the "friendliness scale." Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

People in California like to think of themselves as friendly, but our readers don't agree. When it comes to making guests feel at home, Los Angeles is not the City of Angels. The pace of life is slower in smaller towns.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough. In the waiting area, you might strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't hold your breath for a sea of beaming faces. 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. Not really People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they'll still open the door for you and greet you if you happen to pass by. Even though it isn't the most culturally active state, its residents are able to come 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. Except for Alaskan Natives, virtually all current locals can relate to what it's like to be a newcomer. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you, but in either case, they are not rude.

The people of Montana will win you over with their genuine hospitality. Despite its massive landmass, the entire state has the feel of a single large town. They are pleasant enough without inviting you to their homes for tea. There is friendly competition between the cities, with a warm welcome extended to visitors.

Virginia's growing diversity is making the state's already warm and inviting culture even more so. Culture-rich Washington, D.C., may come across as conservative and wary to outsiders. C and other major cities make it a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming. Because of the abundance of tourists, the locals are extremely friendly and willing to assist foreigners in any way they can. Newcomers to Vermont's small towns may have to wait a while before they're fully accepted, but once they are, they'll have a friend for life.

Most people in North Carolina are polite, helpful, and welcoming. A person can hear a "hi" almost anywhere, including the grocery store, the parking lot, or even while waiting for a red light to turn green. One of the best features of the state is the diversity of its inhabitants.

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 America, and it is also recognized as one of the most welcoming cities for the LGBTQ community.

Our readers agree that Maine is a great place to settle down because of its low crime rate and welcoming community. Mainers, in contrast to their New England contemporaries, are friendly and outgoing. Once you get here, you'll notice this right away.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. The relaxed rhythms of daily life here help create a friendly ambiance. There is a tight-knit sense of community in West Virginia because the state is largely cut off 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. 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. The locals are known for their laid-back demeanor, good sense of humor, and Midwest-style politeness.

Maryland has a large population and a wide range of cultural traditions, making it one of the most culturally diverse states in the country. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it is a lively and engaging place to spend some 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. Could the Packers be involved in any way?

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. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and generosity. The state received high marks from our readers for its friendly atmosphere.

Oregonians have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming to visitors. The Portland hipster scene may be difficult to enter, but the people there are nice, I swear. Your dog is welcome here, too, because it is the most pet-friendly state in the United States.

Mississippi is a lovely state full of genuine Southern hospitality. In Mississippi, the warmth of its residents often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. Once you stop trying to convince them that life is better "up North," the locals 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. They're genuine, friendly, and interested in chit-chat with strangers.

Everyone in Alabama will treat you well if you're friendly. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that rule of thumb. 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, forward-thinking communities in South Dakota that are populated by engaged and welcoming residents. The culture here encourages open conversation between strangers, even in the largest cities. The residents of this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern nice."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that Kentuckians will treat you with kindness. Whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, you can expect the same warm welcome from the community's natives. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians will have you packing your bags and heading south right away.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, are, in fact, quite welcoming. The phrase "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. When it comes to assistance from total strangers, our readers gave it high marks. Look lost There is a good chance a friendly local will assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It has a chill atmosphere and a wide range of cultural influences. The state of New Mexico is home to two cities that were named among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. So there you have it.

A ten-person community This state in the southern United States is home to 3 million people and features a fascinating blend of rural and urban communities. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, it is not difficult to make new friends. 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. Indeed, locals are warm and welcoming, but not in a stalkerish fashion. There's no denying that the state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to incredibly warm and welcoming people. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. As an added bonus, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state for tourists.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. There is a palpable sense of community, with people of all walks of life pitching in to help out those in need. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in just like a native.

The locals here will do anything to make you feel at home, despite the city'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.

One of the best examples of good manners and genuine friendliness in the Midwest can be found in the state of Ohio. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or watering hole to visitors. It's also a fantastic destination for families, as there are many fun things to do here with children.

The hospitality industry in Hawaii is thriving because of the state's strong focus on tourism. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet in paradise will give you a friendly wave and a positive attitude suggests that there must be some psychological benefit to living in paradise.

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

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. People in this state have such a warm welcome attitude toward tourists, it makes visiting this state a dream.

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. The warmth of this place is something you can feel the moment you arrive, whether you're in Denver or the suburbs.

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 have a positive demeanor and a humorous outlook. 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. Lock your keys in the car. It is probably going to make it through unscathed.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its reputation as one of the most welcoming states in the U.S. has been earned through efforts that can be seen "everywhere you go. There's a touch of small-town friendliness in the country's major cities.

The warm hospitality of South Carolinians is well-known, and the state is often cited as a top vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the Southern tradition of warm hospitality and generous spirit.

Locals in Tennessee are full of life and eager to show off their city to visitors, exemplifying the classic Southern hospitality that has made the state famous. When you consider that it also has a thriving music scene, you can see why it's considered one of the friendliest states in the United States.

Which state in America is the most welcoming? 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 exude a genuine friendliness and hospitality that are hard to find elsewhere.