List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

To a visitor, locals (especially those from the countryside) may 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. If you must take pictures for Instagram while standing in the street, please do so quickly so as not to impede traffic.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), the locals will treat you well. Even though Arkansans pride themselves on being friendly neighbors, this can make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong.

It's true that Delaware is a relatively small state, and that it only takes about 90 minutes to drive across the entire state. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? Unfortunately, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

Locals in MA aren't rude, but their indifference to tourists can be off-putting. The Bay State isn't exactly known for its welcoming population because of its propensity to ignore its residents. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, can take years to achieve.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case People from the Garden State have a reputation for being blunt and outspoken. The gas station attendant may not be very friendly, but at least they'll pump your gas for you.

Though Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, when it comes to its residents, things are quite different. Seattleites aren't outright unfriendly, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe. It could be the precipitation, I suppose.

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 here, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Sin City is located in Nevada, a state full of extremes. It's true that Las Vegas can be a cutthroat environment, but neighborly cities like Reno offer a more pleasant alternative. People in Nevada generally aren't 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. Orlando's tourist-friendly initiatives are a huge boon to the state, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go before its reputation catches up.

Unless you've lived in Rhode Island your whole life, you probably won't be accepted as a true local. The residents of Rhode Island were not high on the 'friendly scale' according to Big 7 Travel readers. A local cashier might be friendlier in a smaller town, but in general, don't expect a warm welcome.

Readers of this publication disagree with the widespread belief that Californians are particularly friendly. Although it's a popular tourist destination, Los Angeles isn't exactly known for its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere. Less hectic lifestyles can be found in smaller towns.

Even though Arizonans don't exactly exude the Southern-style warmth, they're chill enough to be ignored. While waiting in line, you might strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't count on anyone breaking out in a full-blown smile. Instead, it's a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. Actually, no. Although New Englanders have a reputation for being cold and unfriendly, they will always open doors for you and greet you with a friendly hello. It's not the most culturally rich state, but people still manage 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 surprise you with their friendliness and hospitality. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. They are friendly even though you won't be invited to their house for tea. 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. Despite the city's reputation for being conservative and wary of outsiders, Washington, D.C., is a vibrant cultural hub. C and other major cities, it's a great place to live.

It's not hard to meet new people and form friendships in Vermont because of the state's affable populace. Because of the abundance of tourists, the locals are friendly and willing to go out of their way to assist foreigners. Newcomers to rural Vermont may have to wait a while before they are fully accepted, but once they are, they have a lifetime of friends to look forward to.

The people who call North Carolina home are known for their politeness, willingness to aid strangers, and warm reception of guests. Wherever two people are in close proximity, they will inevitably exchange "hi's," whether they're in Walmart, the parking lot, or waiting for a red light to change. One of the state's best features is the eclectic mix of people who call it home.

Utahns are well-known for their warm hospitality, so you'll quickly feel at ease. 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.

Readers seem to agree that Maine is a good place to call home because of its low crime rate and welcoming population. Contrary to popular belief, Mainers are not as reserved as their New England counterparts. This will be readily apparent to you upon your arrival.

Locals in West Virginia are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, making it one of the best places to visit 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 isolated from the rest of the country by mountains.

People in Iowa have a reputation for being friendly and helpful, often stopping to say hello to people they don't know on the street and waving as they pass by. There is a genuine sense of community, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

Michiganders fancy themselves a sociable lot, but the cities of Detroit and Ann Arbor in particular can be a challenge for newcomers. Most locals have a healthy dose of good humor and laid-back, polite Midwestern niceness.

Maryland has a high population density and is a culturally rich and diverse state. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving and friendly 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, a state whose citizens are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. People in Green Bay are exceptionally pleasant to be around because it is one of the happiest cities in America. Perhaps the Packers have something to do with it.

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. People in North Dakota are friendly and helpful, often without expecting anything in return. The community spirit in this state was highly rated by our readers.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. It may take some time to earn acceptance into Portland's hipster scene, but I promise it's worth it. 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. The friendliness of the locals is something that often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors to Mississippi. Once you refrain from bragging about how much better life is "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like one of the family.

Before you've even had the chance to say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy recounting of their life experiences. No pretenses, just genuine kindness and interest in one another among strangers.

Everyone in Alabama is nice if you're nice to them. If you obey this simple rule, you'll quickly discover that Alabama is among the friendliest places in the United States. They'll help you carry your groceries to your car and hold the door open for you just because they want to be nice.

It's easy to find a progressive, forward-thinking community full of involved and welcoming residents in South Dakota. It is common practice for people to strike up conversations with complete strangers, even in the busiest urban areas, and discuss anything from the weather to the latest game. This town is the epitome of "Midwestern nice."

It doesn't matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are always friendly. It doesn't matter if you're a lifelong resident or a tourist; the locals will treat you with the same warmth and friendliness. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone consider making the state their permanent home.

Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are two cities that might not immediately spring to mind when you think of "friendly cities," but you'd be wrong. There's a reason the slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" exists: the people here are famously warm and welcoming. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost Possibilities are high that a friendly local will offer assistance.

People in almost every town in New Mexico are warm and welcoming. A melting pot of people from all walks of life, it's easygoing and diverse. In addition, two New Mexico cities were among the 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. Thus, the conclusion

There are 10 people living here. With a population of over 3 million people, this state in the southern United States is home to a fascinating blend of rural and urban communities. Meeting new people is simple, even in larger cities like Atlanta. In a survey conducted by Big 7 Travel, Georgia received a score of 4.5 out of 7.

There is a common belief that Idahoans are among the friendliest people in the country. In contrast to other places, the locals here are genuinely warm and welcoming. Idaho's reputation for friendliness and openness towards visitors is well-deserved.

Located in the middle of the United States, Illinois is home to welcoming people. Chicago is widely regarded as one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the United States, rivaling or even surpassing New York City. It's also a pretty good state to visit: 19 of the safest cities in America are located in Illinois.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. People are always pitching in to help one another, and there's a real sense of community. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in just like a native.

Despite the region's recent history of natural disasters, the locals will do anything to make you feel at home. Louisianans may come from a wide variety of backgrounds, but they all contribute to what makes the state one of the most welcoming and enjoyable in the United States.

Ohioans are known for their good manners and friendly demeanor, making the Buckeye State a prime example of the Midwest ideal. When visitors ask where they should go to eat or drink, locals are happy to give recommendations. There are many options for children, making this an ideal destination for families.

There is a strong emphasis on tourism in Hawaii, which means that guests are well taken care of in terms of hospitality. As a result 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.

OKC isn't called "The Big Friendly" for nothing; OK is truly one of the friendliest states in the USA. The locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They treat guests with the same warmth and friendliness as locals.

Visitors from other states may be taken aback by the famous friendliness of Kansans, so they should be ready to strike up conversations with complete strangers. The friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

Colorado is a great state to visit because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals. It's great for taking the kids, there's a ton to learn, and you'll quickly feel like a native. A sense of welcome is something you'll notice right away, whether you're in Denver or the suburbs.

People in Indiana take great pride in their famous "Hoosier hospitality," in which they consistently go out of their way to help those in need. 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.

The people of Wyoming make it a great place to visit, despite the state's reputation for relative tranquility. Even in large cities, it is not unusual for a stranger to offer to help you with something as simple as getting your car unstuck from the snow or carrying your groceries. Do not enter the vehicle until you have returned to retrieve the keys. Possibilities are high that everything will be fine.

In Texas, the locals are always upbeat and ready with a "Howdy." Its welcoming people "everywhere you go" have undoubtedly earned it a spot among the friendliest states in the United States. The locals in its big cities will make you feel like you've come home to a friendly village.

The people of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which makes the state a great vacation destination. South Carolina has the warm hospitality and friendly people for which the South is famous in abundance.

Tennessee is bursting with that quintessential Southern hospitality, and its citizens are energized and excited to show off their hometown to visitors. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

And the winning state among those deemed the most welcoming in the United States is Minnesotans are the friendliest in the nation. 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.