List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

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. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic by taking Instagram photos too slowly.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), the locals will treat you well. Despite the state of Arkansas's reputation for neighborly warmth, some out-of-staters may feel they don't belong there.

Although 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 may not be one of the friendliest states in the country because its residents tend to ignore them. Furthermore, it takes a long time to establish oneself as a local, rather than a tourist, in Boston.

The attitude of Jersey residents can come across as rude. And according to the results of this poll, that's unquestionably the case. New Jersey residents are notoriously forthright. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will at least pump your gas for you.

The Evergreen State may place highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, but its human residents are another story. Even though Seattleites don't come across as rude, they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, which has earned the city its nickname, "Seattle freeze." Perhaps it's all the wet weather

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents rightfully take great pride in their home state. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Nevada, home to Sin City, is a state of extremes. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. Locals in Nevada, on the whole, 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. Although 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.

It is highly likely that anyone who was not raised in Rhode Island will always be considered an outsider to the state. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendly scale." Smaller communities tend to be friendlier, but even the cashier at the corner store probably won't smile at you.

Many of our readers do not agree with the widespread belief that Californians are particularly friendly, despite the state's widespread promotion of this stereotype. When it comes to making guests feel at home, Los Angeles is no City of Angels, instead giving off an air of coldness and even hostility. 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. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. More than anything, it's a pleasant lack of concern for other people.

Residents of Connecticut are friendly and polite, but somewhat reserved. No, not really Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. Even though it isn't the most culturally active state, residents still manage to pull together through open mike nights and other community gatherings.

Despite the state's relative isolation, Alaska relies heavily on tourism; consequently, 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.

Montanans are surprisingly friendly and outgoing. 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 pleasant. Conversation between cities is friendly and humorous, and people generally enjoy having visitors.

Increased diversity is making Virginia an even more inviting and friendly place to live. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C and other major cities, it's a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming. Since tourism is so important to the area's economy, residents are generally eager to accommodate visitors. Those in small towns in Vermont may be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

North Carolinians, in general, have a pleasant demeanor and are helpful and welcoming to visitors and strangers alike. Greetings are commonplace in public places like Walmart and parking lots, or even while waiting at a red light. One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. 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 culture and thriving nightlife.

Our readers seem to agree that Maine is a great place to call home because of its low crime rate and welcoming community. Mainers, in contrast to their New England neighbors, are known to be friendly and outgoing. Upon your arrival, you'll notice this right away.

Some of the warmest and most friendly people you'll encounter in your travels across the United States will be West Virginians. The relaxed rhythms of daily life here help create a friendly ambiance. The mountains in West Virginia create a strong sense of community by isolating the state from the rest of the country.

Iowans are known for their friendliness and kindness, 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.

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 have a great sense of humor, are laid back and polite, and embody the Midwest ideal of a friendly community.

The population density in Maryland is high, and the state is also home to a wide range of cultural traditions. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving, social atmosphere. 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, with its friendly locals, strong sense of community, and carefree outlook. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

It's not because of the quality of the locals that this is one of the least populated and least visited states in the United States. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand with no strings attached. Readers were very complimentary of the state's friendly atmosphere.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. 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.

The Magnolia State of Mississippi is a delightful place, full of warmth and hospitality. One thing that surprises most out-of-towners about Mississippi is how friendly the people are here 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've always been there.

Missourians are notorious for launching into lengthy monologues before you've even said hello. They’re nice and tend to actually be interested in what strangers have to say – there’s no fakeness here

In Alabama, if you're a nice person, everyone will be nice to you. In case you hadn't heard, Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the Union so long as you remember to "Just Say 'Hello.'" Simply out of a desire to be helpful, total strangers will open doors for you and assist you with your purchases all the way to your car.

There are many progressive, forward-thinking communities in South Dakota that are home to enthusiastic and welcoming residents. People will casually strike up conversations with total strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, even in the biggest cities. People in this region are the epitome of "Midwestern nice."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are 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 pack their bags and head to the Bluegrass State.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you may not immediately associate with friendliness, are great places to visit. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. For its helpfulness from total strangers, our readers gave it high marks. Look lost The average friendly local will probably offer assistance.

In most of New Mexico's communities, you'll find warm and welcoming locals. It has a chill vibe and a wide variety of ethnic and cultural influences. 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 go.

Population: 10 This state in the southern United States is home to 3 million people and features a diverse collection of urban and rural communities, as well as welcoming residents. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Many of the readers of Big 7 Travel found Georgia to be quite pleasant.

It's been said many times, but our readers overwhelmingly agreed: Idahoans are among the friendliest people in the country. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. Those who visit Idaho will find that the state lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to outsiders.

Illinois is a state in the center of the United States's Midwest, and its residents are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet. Chicago is arguably more welcoming to tourists than New York City. To top it all off, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state for tourists to visit.

Sweethearts abound in the state of Nebraska. Strong community spirit permeates the air, with people of all ages and backgrounds pitching in to help one another. 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. Despite its many different cultures, Louisiana is a great place to live because of its welcoming and welcoming people.

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.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. Because of its "Aloha Spirit," it has gained worldwide recognition. Everyone here seems happy all the time, so it's safe to assume that paradise does something good for the spirit.

There's a reason Oklahoma is home to one of America's friendliest capitals: Oklahoma City. Locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. 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 prepared to strike up conversations with complete strangers. 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 history, and will soon have you feeling like a native. The warmth of this place is something you can feel the moment you arrive, whether you're in Denver or the suburbs.

Natives 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 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.

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. Do not enter the vehicle until the keys have been left in the ignition. With any luck, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" are a trademark. Its reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has helped make it one of the friendliest states in the United States. The people of its big cities will make you feel right at home, as if you'd traveled to one of the smaller towns in the region.

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

Tennessee is a great example of classic Southern hospitality, with friendly locals who are always eager to show visitors around. When you factor in the state's thriving music scene, it's easy to see why it's widely considered to be one of the friendliest in the United States.

The winner among the most welcoming American states is Superior customer service is what puts Minnesota on top. The Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have an unbeatable "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals who go out of their way to make visitors feel at home.