List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

Some of the locals (especially those in the upstate) may come off as rude at ), but it is a cultural hub with a sense of community in its neighborhoods across all five boroughs if you can make it through the initial chaos. Please 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), the locals will treat you well. However, while this is great 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 relatively compact (it takes only about 90 minutes to drive from one end to the other), its size does not necessarily equate to neighborliness. Is it that our readers' preconceived notions of Delaware as unwelcoming stem from the state's (possibly unfair) image as dull? A sad reality is that it is one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

Even though most people in Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, the general apathy they exhibit toward tourists can be wearing. Not exactly a quality that makes Massachusetts one of the friendliest states in America is its tendency to ignore its citizens. Being a real Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, takes time.

Jersey residents' demeanor is sometimes misunderstood as rudeness. 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 direct. Even if the gas station attendant is rude, at least they'll pump your gas.

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. People in Seattle aren't outright unfriendly, but they do have a certain "polite but unfriendly" air about them. Perhaps the constant downpours are 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 difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Vegas, Nevada is a state of extremes. Las Vegas is a place where "dog eats dog," but neighborly Reno is a better option. The general population of Nevada is not particularly friendly toward strangers.

With Miami consistently ranking as one of the unfriendliest cities in the United States, Florida has its work cut out for it. Cities like Orlando, with their many 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 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. Although the local cashier is more likely to smile in a smaller town, they won't exactly go out of their way to make your day.

Readers of this publication disagree with the widespread belief that Californians are a friendly bunch. In terms of friendliness toward visitors, Los Angeles is no City of Angels. In fact, the city has an air of indifference that occasionally crosses into rudeness. It's easier to take it easy in a smaller city.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough for the most part. 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 approachable despite their politeness, reserve, and general niceness. Unfortunately, that's not the case. People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they'll still open doors and greet you if you ask. 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. In fact, with the exception of Alaska Natives, the vast majority of the locals here are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point. They may not respond to you at all, or they may appear uninterested, but either way, they are not rude.

When you visit Montana, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of its residents. 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. Friendly banter between cities, with an upbeat outlook on visitors of all kinds.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. Though it may come across to outsiders as conservative and wary, Washington, D.C., is a vibrant center of art and culture. C and other major cities make it a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for their warm and welcoming demeanor, making it simple to strike up conversations with complete strangers. It's a tourist mecca, so people will go out of their way to assist visitors. It may take some time for the locals in a small Vermont town to warm up to a newcomer, 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 welcome to visitors. 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.

Because Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, you will quickly feel 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. This will be immediately apparent to you upon your arrival.

As you travel across the United States, you're sure to meet some interesting people, but West Virginians are among the most hospitable. 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 to one another, and it's not uncommon to see them greet complete strangers as they pass one another on the street or wave at passing cars. There's a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling fresh produce on the side of the road.

It's a common misconception that all Michiganders are warm and welcoming; in fact, some of the state's largest cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be downright unapproachable The people here have a great sense of humor and are laid back and polite, typical of the Midwest.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving, social atmosphere. It's not hard to find your new best friends in a Baltimore bar.

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 cities in the country, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

This may be one of the least-visited and least-populated states in the United States, but that has nothing to do with its fantastic residents. Natives of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without seeking anything in return. Community spirit in the state was highly rated by our readers.

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. That dog of yours will be just as welcome here as it is the most pet-friendly state in the USA.

Mississippi is a beautiful state full of genuine Southern hospitality. The friendliness of Mississippians is often a pleasant surprise to visitors. Once you refrain from ranting about how much better life is "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like you always belonged there.

Some Missourians are so eager to share their lives with you that they'll do so before you've even said hello. They are genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

All the people you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you are friendly. In case you hadn't heard, Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the Union so long as you remember to "Just Say 'Hello.'" 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. The culture here encourages open conversation between strangers, even in the largest cities. You can pretty much use the phrase "Midwestern Nice" to describe the people here.

Kentucky residents are generally friendly and helpful. Everyone, native or visitor, is welcomed with open arms by the friendly locals. People from other states will be envious of the warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually are. The phrase "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. With regards to random acts of kindness, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Almost everywhere you go in New Mexico, you'll find friendly locals. You can expect a relaxed atmosphere and a wide range of ethnic and religious groups. In addition, two New Mexico cities ranked among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in 2018. So there you go.

With only 10 people, This state in the southern United States has a population of over 3 million and a diverse landscape of urban and suburban areas, but its residents are known for their warmth and hospitality. Even in major metropolitan areas like Atlanta, forming meaningful relationships with locals is a breeze. Readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

People from all over the country will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest you'll meet, and our readers agree. This place has genuinely nice people, and not in a creepy, intrusive way. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Locals in Illinois, located smack dab in the middle of the Midwest, are known for their warmth and hospitality. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. As an added bonus, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state 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 one another, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. If you can master the "one finger" wave while driving, you'll blend in just like a native.

Locals make an extra effort to make visitors feel at home despite the city's recent history of natural disasters. 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.

To see true Midwestern manners and friendliness in action, look no further than Ohio. They welcome visitors and are happy to recommend their favorite restaurant or bar. There are many options for children and families to enjoy themselves.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet in paradise will greet you with a friendly smile, so clearly paradise has a healing effect on the human psyche.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," has earned that moniker for good reason. The locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They treat guests with the same warm hospitality as locals.

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 one of the state's greatest attractions.

Colorado is a great state to visit because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals. Guests quickly begin to feel like natives in this secure and family-friendly destination rich in history and tradition. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

The people of Indiana take great pride in their legendary "Hoosier hospitality," in which they routinely go out of their way to help strangers. 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 it a lively and exciting destination. 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. Do not enter the vehicle until you have returned to retrieve the keys. Likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly people of Texas and their constant "Howdys" That it has friendly people "everywhere you go" is a big reason why people consider it one of the friendliest states in the United States The locals in its major 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 often cited as a top vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

Tennessee is a great example of classic Southern hospitality, with friendly locals who are always eager 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 America's friendliest states The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state ranks first. 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.