List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

It's possible that at first the locals, even those in the countryside ) but if you can make it through the initial shock, you'll find that each of the five boroughs of New York City is a cultural melting pot with neighborhoods that have a strong sense of community. But don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on 'if,' though) people 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.

Delaware may be a small state, with a total driving time of only 90 minutes, but its lack of neighborliness is not to be taken lightly. Is it that our readers' perception of Delaware as unwelcoming stems from the state's (possibly exaggerated) reputation as boring? Regrettably, it is considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

The people of Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, but their apathy toward tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts's tendency to ignore its citizens is not exactly a quality that makes it a leader among the friendliest states in America. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, can take years.

One possible interpretation of the Jersey way of life is as blatant rudeness. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. The (likely) unfriendly station attendant, however, will pump your gas for you.

Despite Washington's perennially high standing on lists of the most environmentally-friendly states, the state's human population is a different story. 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

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 difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Nevada, where Sin City is located, is a state of extremes. 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 has its work cut out for it if Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least friendly cities in America. Tourism-friendly developments in places like Orlando are greatly enhancing the state's standing, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go before it earns its reputation as it should.

If you aren't a native Rhode Islander, you probably won't fit in socially. The residents of Rhode Island were not high on the 'friendly scale' according to Big 7 Travel readers. Smaller communities tend to be friendlier, but even the cashier at the corner store probably won't smile at you.

The Golden State's residents may think of themselves as sociable, but our readers beg to differ. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles is no City of Angels. It's easier to take it easy in a smaller city.

There's no denying that Arizona lacks the Southern's trademark warmth and hospitality, but the locals are chill enough not to mind. While waiting in line, random people are likely to start talking to one another. Kind of a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. Not really New Englanders have a reputation for being cold and unfriendly, but they will always hold the door for you and smile at you if you visit. 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. Most of the locals, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point. The alternative is that they will simply ignore you; however, they are not rude in any way.

Our Montana neighbors will win you over with their genuine 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 pleasant. 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. The cultural mecca of Washington, D.C., may come across as traditional and wary to outsiders. C and other major cities, the area is a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place to make new friends. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. Even though it may take some time for the locals in a small Vermont town to warm up to a newcomer, once they do, you'll have friends for life.

People in North Carolina are known for their politeness, friendliness, and willingness to help both visitors and locals. People will greet you with a "hi" almost anywhere: the grocery store, the parking lot, the stoplight. Highlighting the state's diversity is the fact that its residents hail from every region of the United States.

The people of Utah are well-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 the United States, and it also happens to be one of the most accepting 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 their New England counterparts, are friendly and outgoing. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

Traveling across the United States, you'll find that West Virginians are among the most warm and friendly people you'll meet. An easygoing lifestyle creates a friendly environment here. Strong communities can be found in West Virginia due to the state's relative isolation due to its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains.

Iowans have a reputation for friendliness and kindness due to their habit of greeting total strangers with a smile and a wave whenever they pass one another on the street. 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. People in this area tend to be humorous, laid-back, and polite in that classic Midwestern way.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. It welcomes strangers, making it a lively and social place to spend time. 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 places in the United States, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. What role, if any, do the Packers play in this?

Despite its great people, 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 generosity. 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. Even Fido is welcome here, as this state is the most pet-friendly in the country.

The state of Mississippi is absolutely lovely, full of warm hospitality and delicious Southern cuisine. Foreigners 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.

Even before you've had the chance to say "hello," people in Missouri will launch into a lengthy recounting of their personal histories. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you with kindness if you treat them with kindness first. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you just follow that one simple rule. Some random person will hold the door open for you, and others will offer to help you carry your groceries out to your car.

There are many progressive, forward-thinking communities in South Dakota that are populated by engaged and welcoming residents. People will strike up conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, 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 people in Kentucky are friendly. People here are friendly whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through. One encounter with a typical Kentuckian and you'll want to pack your bags and head to the Bluegrass State right away.

It's not obvious at first glance that cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are warm and welcoming. The phrase "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 rated it very highly. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

It's typical of New Mexico to find welcoming locals in even the smallest communities. It's chill and full of different cultures. Also, two New Mexico cities made it into the Top 20 Retirement Cities for LGBT people in 2018. So there you have it.

Ten people strong. With a population of over 3 million people, this state in the southern United States is a fascinating blend of rural and urban areas. In even the most populous places, like Atlanta, forming meaningful relationships with locals is a breeze. 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 visitors.

You can't get more Midwestern than Illinois, and the people there couldn't be friendlier. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. Also, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

When it comes to Americans, you won't find a nicer bunch than those who live in Nebraska. Everywhere you look, you'll find people pitching in to help each other out, creating a strong sense of community. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in just like a native.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. Although Louisiana is home to a wide variety of cultures, its residents have one thing in common: they make it one of the friendliest and best places to live in the United States.

The good manners and genuine friendliness of the people of Ohio are legendary throughout the Midwest. The locals are friendly and will gladly 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.

Because tourism is Hawaii's main industry, visitors can expect exceptional service. Because of its "Aloha Spirit," it has gained worldwide recognition. Everyone you meet in paradise will give you a friendly hello, as if living in paradise itself had some sort of therapeutic effect on the human psyche.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. The locals are very sociable 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 warmth of the locals toward tourists is a major reason why the state is so lovely.

Colorado is a great state to visit because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals. It's great for taking the kids, has a wealth of cultural attractions, and will quickly have you feeling like a native. Feeling welcome here is something you'll notice right away, whether you're in Denver or the suburbs.

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. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana 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 major metropolitan areas, strangers will often help you out if you get stuck in the snow or need assistance carrying groceries. Don't bother getting out of the car. It's probably going to make it out unscathed.

The jovial Texans and their "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. You'll feel right at home among its friendly locals in any of its big cities.

The people of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which makes the state a great vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is known.

Classical Southern hospitality is alive and well in Tennessee, where the people are friendly and excited to show off their hometown. Combine that with one of the most active music scenes in the country, and it's easy to see why this is such a welcoming place to live.

And the winner is, of all the welcoming American states: Top honors go to Minnesota, whose residents are known for being among the friendliest in the country. The Twin Cities and surrounding areas have an unbeatable "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals and numerous tourist-friendly attractions.