List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially those from the countryside) could 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 fascinating melting pot of cultures. Just don't linger in the street or impede traffic while snapping photos for Instagram.

If you're a local, and I stress if, everyone in Arkansas will treat you with respect. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it can make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong.

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. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? It is one of the least welcoming states in the USA, 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. Becoming a full-fledged resident of Boston rather than viewed as a temporary visitor can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. To judge from the results of this poll, that is indeed the case. Those who hail from New Jersey are often stereotyped as being loud and brash. At least the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will pump your gas for you.

Although Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, when it comes to its residents, things are quite different. 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." Is it the constant downpour to blame?

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage and their home. However, this sense of pride is often 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 striking contrasts. However, while Las Vegas can be a cutthroat environment, neighborly cities like Reno offer a more pleasant alternative. Overall, Nevadans are not very hospitable, and few will go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Given that Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least welcoming cities in the United States, Florida has its work cut out for it. Cities like Orlando, with their tourist-friendly initiatives, are doing a lot to boost the state's image, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go.

Unless you've lived in Rhode Island your whole life, you probably won't be accepted as a true local. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendly scale." Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

Although many native Californians and transplants like to think of themselves as friendly, our readers beg to differ. The people of Los Angeles aren't exactly the most welcoming, giving off an air of disinterestedness that sometimes crosses into outright rudeness. The pace of life tends to be slower in smaller urban centers.

Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are chill enough to make up for it. 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. Maybe not as much 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, its residents are able to come together at open mike nights and other community events.

Despite the state's relative isolation, Alaskans 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 this or simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their hospitality. Despite its massive size, the entire state has the feel of a single large town. Despite how nice they are, you won't be invited over 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. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C and other major cities, the area is a great place to live.

The people of Vermont are known for their warm and welcoming demeanor, making it simple to strike up conversations with complete strangers. Because of the abundance of tourists, the locals are friendly and willing to go out of their way to assist foreigners. Vermonters in smaller communities can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but 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. Just about anywhere, from Walmart to the parking lot to a stoplight, you'll hear someone say "hi." 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 large cities in the United States for the LGBTQ community, and it also has a wonderful social scene.

Our readership appears to share the opinion that Maine is a desirable place to settle because of its low crime rate and welcoming locals. Although New Englanders as a whole have a reputation for being reserved, Mainers are known for their openness and friendliness. Right when you walk in, you'll notice this.

People from West Virginia are among the friendliest and most helpful you'll encounter anywhere in the United States. The relaxed tempo of life here creates a friendly environment. 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.

Iowans are known for their friendliness and kindness, evidenced by the frequent use of "howdy" and "how are you" in everyday interactions with strangers. There is a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

In general, Michiganders have a reputation for being a warm and welcoming people, but the cities of Detroit and Ann Arbor in particular have a reputation for being difficult to navigate. People here have a good sense of humor, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving and friendly atmosphere. Baltimore bars are great places to meet potential best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest; its citizens are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country. Was it possibly related to 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. Residents of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without seeking anything in return. When asked about the state's sense of community, our readers gave it high marks.

The people of Oregon have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming. The Portland hipster scene may be difficult to enter, but the people there are nice, I swear. The state is the most pet-friendly in the country, so Fido can come along, too.

Mississippi is a lovely state full of genuine Southern hospitality. Many visitors to Mississippi are pleasantly surprised to find that locals are warm and welcoming. Once you stop bragging about how great it is "up North" to the natives, they will treat you like family and treat you like one of the family.

Before you can even say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy account of their life experiences. They're genuine, friendly, and interested in chit-chat with strangers.

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. Just because they want to be nice, strangers will do nice things like hold the door open and help you carry your groceries to your car.

It's easy to find a progressive, forward-thinking community full of involved and welcoming residents in South Dakota. 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. 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. It doesn't matter if you're a lifelong resident or just passing through; the locals will treat you with the same warmth and friendliness. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make you pack your bags and head here right away.

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; the locals here are always happy to help. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost If you ask nicely, a friendly local might even offer assistance.

Almost everywhere you go in New Mexico, you'll find friendly locals. It has a chill vibe and a wide variety of ethnic and cultural influences. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people So there it is.

Having a total of 10 people 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. Those who read the Big 7 Travel report on Georgia thought it was great.

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 as a welcoming and friendly place for visitors.

Illinois, located smack dab in the middle of the Midwest, is home to incredibly welcoming locals. When compared to New York City, Chicago is often regarded as the more welcoming destination for international visitors. Illinois is a good state to visit because it is home to 19 of the safest cities in the United States, as ranked by Neighborhood Scout.

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.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. Louisianans may come from many different backgrounds, but they all contribute to the state's reputation as one of the friendliest and most enjoyable in the United States.

The good manners and genuine friendliness of Ohioans are legendary throughout the Midwest. They welcome visitors and are happy to recommend their favorite restaurant or bar. Moreover, it's a fantastic destination for families thanks to the abundance of fun things to do here that children will love.

The hospitality industry in Hawaii is thriving because of the state's strong focus on tourism. Because of its "Aloha Spirit," it has gained worldwide recognition. Everyone you meet in paradise will give you a friendly hello, as if paradise itself could cure your emotional ills.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. The locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. When guests come to visit, they are treated with the same warmth and hospitality.

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 towards tourists is one of the state's many attractive features.

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 things to do, and will have you feeling more at home in no time. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

Residents 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 pleasant disposition and a good sense of humor. Indiana is more than just a "fly over" state; after visiting, you'll always remember it as home.

While Wyoming itself 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. You should just leave the car unlocked. It is probably going to make it through unscathed.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has helped make it one of the friendliest states in the United States. Despite its size, the people in its major cities will make you feel like you've arrived in a friendly small town.

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

Tennessee is the epitome of classic Southern hospitality, and its citizens are always excited 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.

And the winning state among those deemed the most welcoming in the United States is The people of Minnesota are the friendliest in the country, so the state wins. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the Twin Cities and surrounding areas have an inviting, friendly vibe that's hard to find elsewhere.