List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

It's possible that at first, locals (especially those in the countryside) will come off as a 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.

When you're a local in Arkansas, people tend to be very welcoming. Though this bodes well for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

Although the state of Delaware is relatively compact (it takes only about 90 minutes to drive from one end to the other), its size doesn't necessarily equate to neighborliness. Is our audience's preconceived notion of Delaware's amiability due to the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a bore? Regrettably, it is considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

People in MA aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference to tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts isn't exactly going to make the list of the 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.

Sometimes, the Jersey way of life is misunderstood as rudeness. This survey seems to confirm that to be the case. The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. However, the (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will 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. While Seattleites aren't outright rude, they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe (hence the "Seattle freeze"). Perhaps it's all the precipitation.

The people of New Hampshire are extremely loyal to their home state and its beauty. Nonetheless, it's easy for others to misinterpret such pride as arrogance. It can be challenging to make friends among the locals here, what with their stubborn natures and the small population.

Nevada, the site 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 some time. Individual Nevadans may not go out of their way to assist a stranger.

Florida has its work cut out for it if Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least friendly cities in America. 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 a ways to go.

Unless you've lived in Rhode Island all your 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 "friendliness scale." 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 particularly friendly. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. The pace of life is slower in smaller towns.

There's no denying that Arizona doesn't have the same kind of blatant friendliness as the South, but the locals are chill enough to ignore that. When waiting in line, it's the type of place where total strangers will start talking to each other; however, you shouldn't count on anyone being overly cheerful. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

Residents of Connecticut are friendly and polite, but somewhat reserved. I wouldn't say that at all 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. Although it's not exactly a hotbed of artistic expression, open mike nights and other community gatherings help keep the state from feeling too stale.

Although Alaska is quite remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, so locals are always happy to see visitors. Aside from Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of current residents here were once foreigners, so they understand what it's like to start over in a strange place. 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 friendliness and hospitality. 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. There is friendly competition between the cities, with a warm welcome extended to visitors.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. While some people might see it as quite traditional and wary of strangers, the cultural haven of Washington D C and other major cities, it's a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being open-minded and friendly, making it a great place to meet new people. Tourism is huge here, so overall, locals will go out of their way to help visitors to the area Although the locals of a small Vermont town may take some time to warm up to newcomers, once they do, you'll have friends for life.

Individuals residing in North Carolina are known for their polite demeanor, willingness to assist others, and friendliness toward tourists and fellow citizens. People will greet you with a "hi" almost anywhere: the grocery store, the parking lot, the stoplight. One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

Because Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, you will quickly feel at home here. Salt Lake City is one of the most sociable and exciting places to live in the United States, and it is also recognized as one of the most welcoming cities for the LGBTQ community.

Our readership seems to agree that Mainers' warmth and the state's low crime rate make it an attractive place to settle down. Mainers, in contrast to the stereotype of New Englanders, are outgoing and friendly. 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. Living here is relaxed, which creates a friendly environment. As the mountains create a sort of buffer zone between West Virginia and the rest of the country, the people who live there tend to stick together.

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.

Even though Michiganders like to think of themselves as a welcoming and sociable people, some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be difficult to get to know. There is a good sense of humor and a laid-back, polite Midwestern attitude among the locals.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving, social atmosphere. The local bar scene in Baltimore is fantastic for meeting potential best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest, with friendly, polite citizens who value their communities and enjoy life. Given that Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in America, it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. Could the Packers be a factor?

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. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and generosity. The community spirit in this state received high marks from our readers.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to enter, but the people there are nice, I swear. Since it also ranks as the most pet-friendly state in the USA, Fido is more than welcome here, too.

Mississippi is a beautiful state full of genuine Southern hospitality. Visitors are often taken aback by the warm welcome they receive in 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've even had a chance to say hello, a Missourian will launch into a lengthy account of their life. Not only are they friendly, but they also genuinely care about what complete strangers have to say.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you treat them well. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that rule of thumb. People you don't know will go out of their way to help you, from holding the door open to assisting you with your groceries to your car.

South Dakota is home to a wide variety of thriving, progressive communities populated by actively involved and hospitable individuals. Even in the largest cities, people rarely shy away from striking up conversations with total strangers about anything from the weather to the latest football game. 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 friendly. People here are friendly whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through. Kentucky residents exude a special brand of friendliness that will have you packing your bags and heading south immediately.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are friendlier than you might expect. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost There is a good chance that a friendly local will offer assistance.

If you're looking for welcoming locals, New Mexico is the place to go. It is culturally rich and has a relaxed atmosphere. More so, two New Mexico cities have been recognized as 2018 Top 20 Cities for LGBT-friendly retirement. So there you go.

There are 10 people living here. 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 simple. According to Big 7 Travel readers, Georgia is wonderful.

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 warm and inviting, and not in a nosy manner. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

State of Illinois, located smack dab in the middle of the Midwest, is known for its warm and welcoming citizens. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. The state is also relatively safe for tourists, with 19 of the country's Safest Cities located in Illinois.

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

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.

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.

Because tourism is Hawaii's top industry, visitors can expect exceptional service. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet will give you a friendly wave and a warm smile, proof that paradise really does do something good for the spirit.

Oklahoma is home to some of America's friendliest people, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. The locals are always up for a chat and will do whatever they can to protect their own. In addition to being welcoming to locals, they extend the same warmth to tourists.

It's important for out-of-staters to be prepared to strike up conversations with complete strangers due to the state of Kansas's renowned friendliness. The warmth of the locals toward tourists is a major reason why the state is so lovely.

People in Colorado are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet, and the state itself has a progressive vibe that makes for a great vacation. It's great for taking the kids, has a ton of interesting history, and history buffs will quickly feel at home there. You'll feel the welcoming vibes of Colorado right away, whether 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 have a positive disposition and an entertaining sense of humor. A single trip to Indiana will convince you that it is so much more than a "fly over" state.

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. The car keys are still in the ignition. Most likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" "everywhere you go" has undoubtedly contributed to its status as one of the friendliest states in the USA. The locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

The people of South Carolina are very warm and friendly, which makes the state a great vacation destination. South Carolina has all the friendliness and hospitality associated with the South in spades.

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 factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

Finally, the winner among the most welcoming U.S. states is Minnesotans are the friendliest people in the country. The Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have an unrivaled "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals.