List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially those in the countryside) could ), but it's a great place to experience a wide range of cultures in one place, and the neighborhoods across the five boroughs of New York City have a strong sense of community if you can make it through the initial shock. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

If you're from here, Arkansas will treat you like family. The friendly atmosphere in Arkansas is great, but it may make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong there.

The state of Delaware is so small that it can be crossed in 90 minutes by car, but its size doesn't necessarily equate to neighborliness. Are our readers predisposed to view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a bore? Sadly, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

People in MA aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference to 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 bona fide Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, is a lengthy process.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. This survey seems to confirm that to be the case. As a whole, people from New Jersey have a reputation for being blunt and direct. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

Though Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, when it comes to its residents, things are quite different. People in Seattle aren't outright unfriendly, but there is a distinct "polite but unfriendly" vibe that has earned the city the 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. Whereas Las Vegas can be a cutthroat environment, other cities like Reno offer a more relaxed and friendly alternative. People in Nevada generally aren't very willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

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 tourist-friendly initiatives, are doing a lot to boost the state's reputation, but Florida as a whole has a ways to go.

Unless you've lived in Rhode Island all your life, you probably won't be accepted as a true local. Those who visited Rhode Island and voted on Big 7 Travel's "friendly scale" gave the locals a low score. Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

Readers of this publication disagree with the widespread belief that Californians are a friendly bunch. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. Towns and villages have a more relaxed vibe.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. In other words, it's a pleasant lack of concern for other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. It's not that People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they will still open doors for you and greet you warmly. In spite of the state's lack of cultural vitality, its residents find common ground at open mike nights and other community gatherings.

Alaskans are always happy to meet new people, despite the state's relative isolation, because the tourism industry is so important to the state's economy. In fact, with the exception of Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of the locals here are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their hospitality. Despite its vastness, the whole state feels more like a large village. There's no chance of being invited over for tea, but these people are pleasant enough. Each town has its own unique sense of humor and welcomes visitors with open arms.

With its increasing diversity, Virginia is becoming an even more inviting and friendly place to live. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. 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. Since tourism is so important, residents will typically go out of their way to assist guests. Vermonters in smaller communities can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

Citizens of North Carolina are known for their polite demeanor, willingness to aid strangers, and warm welcome of visitors. Just about anywhere, from Walmart to the parking lot to a stoplight, you'll hear someone say "hi." Highlighting the state's diversity is the fact that its residents hail from every region of the United States.

Utahns are known for their warmth and hospitality, so you'll 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.

Readers agree that Maine is a desirable place to live because of its low crime rate and welcoming population. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are known for being friendly and outgoing. This is something you'll see the moment you step foot in this location.

Visitors to the United States will find West Virginians to be among the most warm and friendly they encounter. 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 who are more than happy to tell you all about their delicious produce.

Despite the state's reputation for friendliness, some major cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor can be extremely difficult to connect with. Typical of the Midwest, locals here are friendly, laid-back, and humorous.

Maryland has a large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states. It's a lively and social place to spend some time because it welcomes visitors from all over the world. 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. People in Green Bay are exceptionally pleasant to be around because it is one of the happiest cities in America. Could the Packers be involved in any way?

Even though the people living here are fantastic, this is one of the least-visited states in the United States. The people of North Dakota are known for their genuine friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without seeking 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 the people there are nice, I swear. Even Fido is welcome here, as this state is the most pet-friendly in the country.

When it comes to Southern hospitality, Mississippi is hard to beat. 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.

Before you've even had a chance to say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy recounting of their life experiences. They are genuine in their friendliness, and they show genuine interest in the perspectives of total strangers.

Every person 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 follow that rule of thumb. 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.

Many towns and cities in South Dakota are progressive and full of involved and pleasant residents. Even in the biggest cities, people rarely shy away from striking up conversations with total 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."

Regardless of your reason for visiting, you'll find that Kentuckians are consistently friendly. There's not much of a difference in the locals' welcoming demeanor depending on whether you're a long-time resident or a tourist. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone consider making the state their permanent home.

Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are two cities whose reputations for friendliness may not be as high as they deserve. The phrase "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason; locals truly are friendly. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost There is a good chance a friendly local will offer assistance.

It's typical of New Mexico to find welcoming locals in even the smallest communities. It's chill and full of different cultures. New Mexico is home to two cities that were named among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. And there you have it

A town of only 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, and its residents are known for their warm hospitality. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know locals is simple. The citizens of Georgia were deemed to be quite delightful by Big 7 Travel readers.

Numerous readers agreed with the widespread belief that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country. The locals are genuinely warm and welcoming, and not in a creepy, prying way. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Located in the middle of the United States, Illinois is home to welcoming people. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. The state is also relatively safe for tourists, with 19 of the country's Safest Cities located in Illinois.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. Strong community spirit permeates the air, with people of all ages and backgrounds pitching in to help one another. If you can perfect the "one finger" wave while driving, 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 places to live in the United States.

In Ohio, you can see the best of Midwestern politeness and friendliness at its finest. The locals are friendly and will gladly recommend their favorite restaurant or bar to visitors. It's also fantastic for families, as there are many events and attractions geared specifically toward children.

Since tourism is Hawaii's main industry, visitors can expect exceptional service while they're here. Famous for its "Aloha Spirit," it is a paradise. Everyone you meet will give you a friendly wave and a warm smile, proof that paradise really does do something good for the spirit.

The Big Friendly isn't just a catchy moniker for Oklahoma City; Oklahoma is genuinely one of the friendliest states in the Union. The locals are always up for a chat and will do anything they can to protect those within their own community. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Being prepared to strike up a conversation with complete strangers is a must when visiting Kansas, a state known for its hospitable locals and tourists alike. 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, has a ton of interesting things to do, and will have you feeling more at home in no time. The warmth of this place is something you can feel the moment you arrive, whether you're in Denver or the suburbs.

The people of Indiana take great pride in their legendary "Hoosier hospitality," in which they routinely go out of their way to help strangers. Those who live in this area have a positive demeanor and a great sense of humor. Indiana is more than just a "fly over" state; after visiting, you'll always remember it as home.

Though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make it a lively and exciting destination. It's not unusual to have a complete stranger help you carry your groceries or free your stuck car from the snow in even the largest of cities. Don't even bother coming back to get the keys. I think it will be fine.

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. The people in its big cities will make you feel like you've come home to a friendly small town.

The warm hospitality of South Carolinians is well known, and it's one of the reasons the state is so enjoyable to visit. South Carolina embodies the warm hospitality and generous spirit that have come to define the Southern states.

There is no shortage of that quintessential Southern hospitality in Tennessee; the locals there are friendly and excited 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.

Also, the winner of the competition between the friendliest states in America is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state wins. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the people of the Twin Cities and beyond have a genuine warmth and hospitality that's hard to find elsewhere.