List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first, locals (especially upstate) might come across as a little brusque. 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. Just don't linger in the street or impede traffic while snapping photos for Instagram.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), the locals will treat you well. 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 entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes by car, the people living there are hardly neighborly. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? To make matters worse, 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 is not exactly one of the friendliest states in America due to its residents' tendency to ignore them. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, can take years.

It's easy to mistake the Jersey way of life for outright rudeness. Based on the results of this poll, it appears that is the case. New Jersey residents are notoriously forthright. In any case, the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will do what they can to help you out by pumping your gas.

It's true that Washington State is often ranked highly among eco-friendly states, but when it comes to its residents, things are quite different. Though Seattleites don't come across as rude, they do give off a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, earning the city its nickname, "Seattle freeze." Is it the constant downpour to blame?

It's a beautiful state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage and their home. But that pride is often misunderstood as arrogance by those on the outside. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Nevada, home of Sin City, 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 help 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 has a ways to go.

Unless you have deep family roots in Rhode Island, you will likely always be viewed with suspicion and suspicion. According to Big 7 Travel readers, Rhode Islanders aren't particularly hospitable. 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. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. Most people tend to take it easier in smaller towns.

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. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. This is not the case. People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they'll still open doors for you and greet you if you happen to pass by. 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.

Though Alaska is remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, so locals 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 might not respond to you at all, which is not rude, or they might.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their hospitality. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. Someone who won't invite you over for tea, but is nice all the same. The towns all joke around with each other and treat visitors with friendliness.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and warm. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C in comparison to other major cities, which makes it a good 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, people here are typically happy to go out of their way to assist guests. Residents of small Vermont towns may take some time to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, they'll treat them like long-lost friends.

North Carolinians are known for their politeness, friendliness, and willingness to help both visitors and fellow citizens. It's not uncommon for strangers to greet one another in public places like Walmart, parking lots, and even while waiting for a red light to turn green. Among the many great things about this state is the eclectic mix 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 readers seem to agree that Maine is a great place to settle down because of its low crime rate and welcoming locals. Mainers, in contrast to their New England contemporaries, are friendly and outgoing. This is the first thing you'll notice when you arrive.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. Those who choose to live here enjoy a relaxed tempo of life that fosters 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.

People in Iowa are known for being friendly and helpful, as evidenced by the prevalence of "hellos" and "waves" to passers-by. Authentic community spirit is present, as are friendly cashiers and farmers selling fresh produce on the side of the road.

People in Michigan like to think of themselves as a welcoming and sociable bunch, but some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be tough to get to know. In general, the locals here have a great sense of humor, are laid back, and are incredibly polite.

There is a wide range of cultural traditions represented in Maryland, which is one of the most populous states. Being welcoming to strangers makes for a lively and engaging hangout spot. 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, with its friendly locals, strong sense of community, and positive outlook. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in America, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and welcoming. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

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. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and generosity. The community spirit in the state was highly rated by our readers.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to break into, but the people there are nice, I swear. Because it ranks highest in pet-friendliness, your dog is guaranteed to be accepted here.

Mississippi is a lovely state full of genuine Southern hospitality. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. Once you stop bragging about how great it is "up North" to the locals, 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. There is no pretense or false friendliness here; people are genuinely kind and curious to hear from total strangers.

If you treat everyone you meet in Alabama with kindness, they will treat you with kindness in return. Keep that in mind, and you'll find that Alabama is among the friendliest states in the Union. 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.

South Dakota is home to many progressive, forward-thinking towns whose engaged and friendly residents are shaping the state's bright future. 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. In many ways, 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 will treat you with kindness. Friendly locals will greet you with open arms whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone consider making the state their permanent home.

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. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost Most likely, a friendly local will offer assistance.

It's typical of New Mexico to find welcoming locals in even the smallest communities. Relaxed and rich in cultural variety. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people So, there you have it.

With only ten people, At a population of over 3 million, this state in the southern United States is a fascinating blend of rural and urban communities, but its residents are universally warm and welcoming. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, it's not hard to strike up conversations with locals. Those who read the Big 7 Travel report on Georgia thought it was great.

You'll hear it said often that Idahoans are among the friendliest people in the country, and our readers agree. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Centrally located in the United States' Middle American region, the people of Illinois are among the warmest you'll ever meet. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. In addition, the state is pleasant for tourists to visit because it is home to 19 of the 100 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. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help each other, 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 places to live in the United States.

The people of Ohio are well-known for their good manners and upbeat outlook on life. The locals are friendly and will gladly recommend their favorite restaurant or bar to visitors. There are many options for children, making this an ideal destination for families.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. As a result of its "Aloha Spirit," it has gained worldwide recognition. Everyone you meet will give you a friendly smile, as if living in paradise actually has a positive effect on your mental health.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the country, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," has earned that moniker for good reason. The locals are always up for a chat and will do whatever they can to protect their own. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Tourists 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 friendliness of the locals towards tourists is one of the state's most 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. One of the first things you'll notice about Colorado, whether in the city of Denver or out in the country, is how friendly the people are.

They call it "Hoosier hospitality," and locals in Indiana take great pride in it. The locals have a positive demeanor and an entertaining sense of humor. If you think of Indiana as a "fly over" state, think again.

It's true that Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state overall, but its residents are what really set the mood. 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. Don't bother getting out of the car. Possibilities are high that everything will be fine.

People in Texas are very friendly and often say "Howdy" to strangers. Its reputation as one of the most welcoming states in the United States is a testament to the fact that it is "everywhere you go." Its locals will welcome you with open arms and bring a sense of small-town friendliness to its big cities.

The warm hospitality of South Carolinians is well-known, and the state is a great destination for vacation. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is 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. It's already one of the most welcoming places in America, but when you factor in the exciting music scene, you can see why.

What's more, the winner of the competition between the friendliest states in America is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state ranks first. 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.