List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

In the beginning, locals (especially those living in the upstate) may 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 while taking photos for Instagram, though.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), you'll find the locals to be extremely welcoming. Although this bodes well for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

Although the state of Delaware is quite compact and can be traversed in under an hour and a half, its size should not be mistaken for neighborliness. Is our readership's perception of Delaware's unfriendliness based on the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? Sadly, it's 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 may not be the friendliest state in America, but that isn't because its residents are particularly good at ignoring them. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. According to the results of this poll, that appears to be the case. In your face: the bold, direct nature of a native New Jerseyan However, at least the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will do the pumping for you.

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. The locals aren't exactly rude, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, which has earned the city the nickname "Seattle Freeze." Perhaps 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. Stubborn locals and a low population density make it difficult to make friends in this area.

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. 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. 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.

Some people who aren't native Rhode Islanders just can't shake the feeling that they don't belong there. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendly scale." The local cashier might give you a friendly wave in the smaller neighborhoods, but they won't exactly go out of their way to help you.

Even though many people in California take pride in their reputation as being welcoming, our readers tend to disagree. In terms of friendliness toward visitors, Los Angeles is no City of Angels, and its residents tend to be distant to the point of being rude. The pace of life is slower in smaller towns.

People in Arizona aren't as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough to ignore that. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. Rather, it's a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and polite, but they tend to be reserved and quiet. Not really Despite the region's reputation for coolness, you can count on a friendly greeting and a door held open when you visit New England. While not the most culturally rich state, its residents are able to come together at open mike nights and other community events.

While Alaska is in the middle of nowhere, its residents are more than happy to open their arms to visitors because the tourism industry is so important to the state's economy. The vast majority of Alaskans, with the exception of Native Alaskans, are immigrants who arrived in the state at some point. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

You won't believe how friendly and helpful the locals of Montana are until you see it for yourself. 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 a nice person. There is friendly competition between the cities, with a warm welcome extended to visitors.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state's already warm and friendly culture even more so. D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view it as conservative and wary. 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. Some Vermonters in smaller communities may take some time to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

The people who call North Carolina home are known for their politeness, willingness to aid strangers, and warm reception of guests. People will greet you with a "hi" almost anywhere: the grocery store, the parking lot, the stoplight. The state's diverse population is one of its most appealing features.

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 seems to agree that Mainers' warmth and the state's low crime rate make it an attractive place to settle down. Those from New England are notoriously shy, but Mainers are known for their openness and friendliness. Once you get here, you'll notice this right away.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. The relaxed tempo of life here creates an inviting 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 "howdy" and "how are you" in everyday interactions with strangers. Store clerks will be happy to see you, roadside farmers will gladly discuss their delicious produce, and you'll feel like you're part of a close-knit community.

Despite the state's reputation for friendliness, some major cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor can be extremely difficult to connect with. People here have a good sense of humor, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

Maryland has a large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states in the country. Because it welcomes visitors from all over the world, it is a lively and friendly place to spend some time. One of the best places to meet potential best friends in Baltimore is at a bar.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest; its residents 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. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

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

They say Oregonians are some of the friendliest people in the country. Although Portland's hipster culture may be difficult to enter, the people there are nice (I swear). That dog of yours will be just as welcome here as it is the most pet-friendly state in the USA.

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. When you stop bragging about how much better life is "up North" and start treating the locals with respect, you will quickly be accepted as one of the family.

Before you've even had the chance to say "hello," people in Missouri will launch into a detailed recounting of their lives. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

People in Alabama are known for their friendliness, so make an effort to be one of them. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the US if you follow that simple rule. 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 towns in South Dakota populated by engaged and welcoming locals. People here are very open to talking to complete strangers about any topic, from the weather to the latest football game. It's safe to say that the residents of this region personify the term "Midwestern Nice."

You'll find the people of Kentucky to be friendly and helpful no matter what brings you there. The friendly locals don't care if you were born and raised here or if you're just passing through. Kentucky residents exude a special brand of friendliness that will have you packing your bags and heading south immediately.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually are. Locals are genuine nice guys; there's a reason the state's motto is "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania." The amount of assistance from total strangers was rated highly by our readers. Look lost There is a good chance that a friendly local will assist you.

In most of New Mexico's communities, you'll find warm and welcoming locals. It has a chill vibe and a rich variety of cultural influences. In addition, two New Mexico cities ranked among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in 2018. So there you go.

With only ten 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, it's not difficult to make friends. There was widespread agreement among Big 7 travelers that Georgia was a pleasant destination.

Many people will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest people you'll meet in the United States; our readers agree. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish way. True to its reputation, Idaho welcomes visitors with open arms and genuine kindness.

Located in the middle of the United States, Illinois is home to welcoming people. As a top tourist destination in the United States, Chicago rivals New York City in popularity. According to Neighborhood Scout, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in the state of Illinois, making it a good destination for tourists.

Some of the nicest people you'll ever meet in the United States are from Nebraska. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help each other, creating a strong sense of community. Become an almost native driver by learning the "one finger" wave.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. Louisiana is home to a wide variety of cultures, but its residents share a common trait that makes it a great place to live: their welcoming nature.

One of the best examples of good manners and genuine friendliness in the Midwest can be found in the state of Ohio. They welcome visitors and are happy to recommend their favorite restaurant or bar. As a bonus, there are many options for children to enjoy themselves here, making it an ideal destination for families.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. It must be good for the spirit to live in paradise, because everyone you meet will greet you with a friendly smile.

There's a reason Oklahoma is home to one of America's friendliest capitals: Oklahoma City. Residents of this area are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. Visitors can expect the same warm reception.

When visiting Kansas, visitors from other states may be taken aback by the state's renown friendliness. The warmth and friendliness of the locals to tourists is one of the state's greatest attractions.

Having some of the friendliest people in the world, Colorado is a great place to visit thanks to its progressive culture. 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. Whether in the city of Denver or out in the country, you'll quickly sense the warmth of the locals.

Indiana residents are known far and wide for their warm and generous "Hoosier hospitality." The locals have a positive demeanor and a humorous outlook. Indiana is more than just a "fly over" state; after visiting, you'll always remember it as home.

Although Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make it a lively and entertaining destination. A genuine sense of community exists even in the largest of cities; it is not unusual for a complete stranger to help you carry your groceries or free your stuck car from the snow. Don't bother getting out of the car. There's a good chance that it will arrive undamaged.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" The welcoming people you meet "everywhere you go" have undoubtedly helped make this state one of the friendliest in the United States. Locals in its big cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

The warm hospitality of South Carolinians is well-known, and the state is a great destination for vacation. South Carolina embodies the Southern tradition of warmth and friendliness that has made the region famous.

Tennessee has that classic Southern charm going strong, with residents who are buzzing with excitement and eager to show off their city to visitors. When you consider that it also has a thriving music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's most welcoming states.

Finally, the most welcoming state in the United States is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state ranks first. The Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have an unbeatable "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals and numerous tourist-friendly attractions.