List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

The locals (especially those in the upstate) may come off as rude at New York City may be overwhelming at first, but if you give it time, you'll find that each borough's neighborhoods have a sense of community and that the city itself is a melting pot of many cultures. Don't block the sidewalk or cause traffic delays by taking photos for Instagram, though.

If you happen to be from Arkansas (emphasis on if), locals will treat you with respect. Although this bodes well for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

While the state of Delaware is small enough to be traversed in under an hour and a half, this relative proximity has not necessarily translated into neighborliness. Is it the state of Delaware's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live that turns off our readers? It is one of the states with the lowest ratings for friendliness in the United States, which is a shame.

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.

The Jersey way of thinking can come off as rude. That appears to be the case, at least according to this survey. The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

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. Seattleites aren't outright unfriendly, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe. Possibly the constant precipitation is to blame.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. It can be challenging to make friends among the locals here due to their stubbornness and the area's low population density.

Nevada, the site of the infamous 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. In general, 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. 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. According to Big 7 Travel readers, Rhode Islanders aren't particularly hospitable. 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. Towns and villages have a more relaxed vibe.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough. There will be small talk among strangers while waiting in line, but no one will be overly happy to see you. Positive indifference to other people rather than animosity

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. In any case Despite the region's reputation for coolness, you can count on a friendly greeting and a door held open when you visit New England. 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 in the middle of nowhere, the state relies heavily on tourism, so its residents are always happy to see visitors. To the contrary, with the exception of Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of the locals are immigrants who have experienced life as a newcomer at some point. One of two things will happen; either that, or they will simply ignore you; in either case, they are not rude.

People in Montana are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. They are pleasant enough without inviting you over for tea, but you won't get a warm welcome from them. 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. Washington, D.C. is a cultural hub, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C in comparison to other major cities, which makes it a good place to live.

The people of Vermont are known for being warm and welcoming, making it simple to meet new friends. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. Vermonters in smaller communities can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

North Carolinians, in the main, are pleasant and helpful to strangers and neighbors alike. It's not uncommon for strangers to greet one another in public places like Walmart, parking lots, and even while waiting for a red light to turn green. One interesting feature of the state is the wide variety of people who call it home.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. Salt Lake City is one of the most welcoming big cities in the United States for the LGBTQ community, and it's a wonderful place to live.

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 something you'll notice as soon as you step foot in the door.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. Life here is relaxed, making for a friendly ambiance. 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 "how are yous" and "hellos" in everyday situations. There is a genuine sense of community, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

There's a perception that Michiganders are a warm and welcoming people, but the cities of Detroit and Ann Arbor in particular can be difficult to navigate. People here have a great sense of humor and are laid back and polite in that classic Midwestern way.

Maryland has a large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states. 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.

The people of Wisconsin are the shining star of the Midwest; they are polite, connected, and joyful. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. Maybe it has something to do with the Packers

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 community spirit in this state was highly rated by our readers.

Oregonians have a reputation for friendliness toward strangers. Although Portland's hipster culture may be difficult to enter, the people there are nice (I swear). It also has the highest percentage of pet-friendly households in the United States.

Mississippi is an endearing state full of homey touches typical of the South. The friendliness of Mississippians 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 you always belonged there.

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

Everyone in Alabama is nice if you're nice to them. 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, such as holding the door open or carrying your groceries to your car.

There are many progressive, forward-thinking communities in South Dakota that are home to enthusiastic and welcoming residents. Even in the largest cities, it is common practice for people to strike up conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to the latest football game. People in this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern nice."

Regardless of your reason for visiting, you'll find that Kentuckians are consistently 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 right away.

Although cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh may not immediately spring to mind when you think of "friendly cities," you'll find that they are. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason; the locals here are always happy to help. When it comes to assistance from total strangers, our readers gave it high marks. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

When visiting New Mexico, you can count on finding welcoming locals in almost any municipality. It's chill and full of different cultures. Additionally, 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 larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know locals is simple. The citizens of Georgia were highly regarded by Big 7 Travel readers.

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 nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to outsiders.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to extremely welcoming locals. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. 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.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. Strong community spirit permeates the air, with people of all ages and backgrounds pitching in to help one another. You can pass for a true native if you just learn the "one finger" wave to use while driving.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. Despite its ethnic diversity, Louisiana is a great place to live because of its welcoming and warm people.

Ohioans are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine interest in the well-being of their neighbors. People in the area are friendly and willing to recommend their favorite restaurant or bar to visitors. Also, there are many options for children to enjoy themselves here, making it a fantastic destination for families.

The hospitality industry in Hawaii is thriving because of the state's strong commitment to tourism. This place is famous for its "Aloha Spirit." Everyone here seems happy all the time, so it's safe to assume that paradise does something good for the spirit.

OKC isn't called "The Big Friendly" for nothing; OK is truly one of the friendliest states in the USA. They are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Kansas is well-known for its welcoming residents and visitors alike, so feel free to strike up conversations with anyone you happen to meet. The friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

As a progressive state with some of the friendliest people on the planet, Colorado is a great place to visit. It's great for taking the kids, has a ton of interesting history, and will have you feeling like a native in no time. One of the first things you'll notice about Colorado, whether in the city of Denver or out in the country, is how friendly the people are.

Hoosiers are known for their generous nature and "Hoosier hospitality," the state's unique brand of "hospitality." 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 complete stranger to offer to help you with something as simple as getting your car unstuck from the snow or carrying your groceries. Please lock your car and leave the keys inside. The odds are good that it will arrive undamaged.

Friendly Texans always have a "Howdy" ready for you. Its reputation as one of the most welcoming states in the United States is due in no small part to the fact that people are generally nice there. Locals in its big cities will make you feel like you've come home to their small towns.

South Carolinians are known for their warm hospitality, which is one of the reasons the state is so enjoyable to visit. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

Tennessee is the epitome of classic Southern hospitality, and its citizens are always excited to show visitors around. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

And the winner is among the most welcoming American states The people of Minnesota are the friendliest 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.