List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially those in the countryside) could It's true that New York City can be 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. If you must take pictures for Instagram while standing in the street, please do so quickly so as not to impede traffic.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), the locals will treat you well. While that's great for locals and the state's reputation for neighborliness, it can make visitors to the state feel like outsiders who don't belong.

Although the entire state of Delaware can be traversed in under an hour and a half by car, its size should not be mistaken for neighborliness. Could it be that our readers' preconceived notions of Delaware's amiability stem from the state's (possibly unfair) reputation as boring? One of the least welcoming states in the USA, unfortunately.

The people of Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, but their apathy toward tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts isn't exactly one of the friendliest states in America if its residents are known for ignoring each other. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to an outsider, can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as extremely impolite. And based on the results of this poll, it appears 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.

Washington state may be near the top of lists of eco-friendly states, but that doesn't mean its residents are. Seattleites aren't outright unfriendly, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe. Perhaps it's all the wet weather

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage and their home. The problem is that this sense of pride is often misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. Getting along with the locals can be challenging due to their stubbornness, and the area's sparse rural population.

Nevada, home to Sin City, is a state of striking contrasts. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. It's safe to say that most Nevadans wouldn't 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 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. Rhode Islanders scored low on Big 7 Travel readers' "friendly scale." Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

People in California like to think of themselves as friendly, but our readers don't agree. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. Smaller urban centers have a more relaxed atmosphere.

There's no denying that Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are chill enough to make up for it. When waiting in line, it's the kind of place where complete strangers will start talking to each other; however, you shouldn't count on anyone being overly cheerful. The attitude is one of pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. Not really Although New Englanders have a reputation for being distant, they will still open doors for you and greet you warmly. Not the most culturally rich state, but open mike nights and other community gatherings help keep people connected.

Despite the state of Alaska's isolation, the tourism industry is thriving and locals are always happy to see visitors. 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. One of two things will happen; either that, or they will simply ignore you; in either case, they are not rude.

People in Montana will surprise you with their friendliness and hospitality. Despite its vastness, the whole state feels more like a large village. They're nice, but don't expect an invitation to their house for tea. The townspeople joke around and treat visitors with friendliness and open arms.

More and more people from all walks of life are settling in Virginia, giving the state a warm and inviting vibe. Washington, D.C., is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C and other major cities make it a great place to live.

It's simple to meet new people and form friendships in Vermont because its residents are warm and welcoming. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. People in Vermont's smaller communities may take some time to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

Residents of North Carolina are known for their polite demeanor, willingness to aid strangers, and warm reception of guests. Just about anywhere, from Walmart to the parking lot to a stoplight, you'll hear someone say "hi." The diversity of its residents is one of the state's most notable features.

Feel at home immediately because Utahns are known for their warm hospitality. Salt Lake City is one of the most welcoming large cities in the United States for the LGBTQ community.

All in all, our readers seem to agree that Maine is a great place to call home due to its low crime rate and warm, welcoming community. The people of New England are known for their reserved nature, but Mainers are known for their openness and friendliness. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. There is a relaxed tempo of life that makes for a friendly environment. Because of the mountains' role as a buffer zone between the state of West Virginia and the rest of the country, the people who live there tend to stick together.

The people of Iowa have a reputation for friendliness and kindness, especially in urban areas where they frequently engage in small talk with passers-by and offer a friendly wave. The locals are very friendly, from the cashiers to the roadside farmers who will gladly tell you all about their delicious produce.

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 in this region are known for their laid-back demeanor, good sense of humor, and Midwestern politeness.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. Given its welcoming nature toward strangers, it is a lively and engaging place to spend some time with friends and strangers alike. A Baltimore bar is a great place to meet potential new best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest, with friendly locals who value their community and a positive outlook. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country. 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.

The people of Oregon are widely known for their friendliness toward total strangers. It may take some time to earn acceptance into Portland's hipster scene, but the people there are nice, I swear. This is the most pet-friendly state in the USA, so Fido is more than welcome here.

It's undeniable that Mississippi is a beautiful state, full of all the warmth and hospitality that the South is famous The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. 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've always been there.

Before you can even say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy account of their life experiences. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you with nothing but friendliness if you maintain a positive disposition. Follow that guideline, and you'll soon discover that Alabama is among the friendliest states in the Union. Totally out of the goodness of their hearts, total strangers will do things like hold the door open and help you carry your groceries to your car.

South Dakota is home to a wide variety of thriving, progressive communities populated by actively involved and hospitable people. The culture here encourages open conversation between strangers, even in the largest cities. The residents of this region are the epitome of the term "Midwestern nice."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that Kentuckians will treat you with kindness. The locals have the same welcoming demeanor for everyone, whether you were born and raised here or are just passing through. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians will make you want to pack your bags and head here right away.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually are. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason; people here are genuinely kind to one another. As far as random acts of kindness from strangers go, our readers gave it high marks. Look lost You can expect some assistance from a friendly local.

People in nearly every town in New Mexico are warm and welcoming. It's chill and full of different cultures. Also, two New Mexico cities made it into the Top 20 Retirement Cities for LGBT people in 2018. In any case, there it is.

In a town of only 10 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, getting to know people is straightforward. Readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

You'll hear that Idahoans are some of the friendliest 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.

Locationally, Illinois is right in the middle of the Midwest, and its people are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. 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.

You won't find a friendlier group of Americans than those living in Nebraska. 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 while driving, you'll blend in just like a native.

Despite the region's recent history of natural disasters, the locals will do whatever they can to make you feel at home. Despite its ethnic diversity, Louisiana is a great place to live because of its friendly and welcoming people.

Ohioans are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine enthusiasm for life in the Midwest. Tourists can confidently ask locals for recommendations on where to eat or drink, as the people living there are friendly and open. There are many options for children and families to enjoy themselves.

There is a strong emphasis on tourism in Hawaii, which means that guests are well taken care of in terms of hospitality. Because of its "Aloha Spirit," it has gained worldwide recognition. Everyone you meet will give you a friendly wave and a warm smile, proof that paradise really does do something good for the spirit.

There's a reason Oklahoma is home to one of America's friendliest capitals: Oklahoma City. It's easy to make friends and acquaintances here because everyone is friendly and looks out for one another. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

When visiting Kansas, visitors from other states may be taken aback by the state's renown friendliness. The friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

It's a pleasure to visit Colorado because of its progressive environment and the fact that its residents are among the friendliest anywhere. It's a great place to bring the kids, there's a ton of interesting history to learn about, and vacationers will quickly feel at home here. 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. The locals have a positive disposition and a great sense of humor. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana is so much more than a "fly over" state.

Although Wyoming is a relatively calm state, its residents make it a great place to visit. Even in large urban centers, it is not unusual for a stranger to offer to help you with something as simple as unsticking your car from the snow or carrying your groceries. Do not attempt to enter the vehicle while the keys are still inside. Hopefully, everything will be fine.

Friendly Texans always have a "Howdy" ready for you. Its welcoming culture and "everywhere you go" vibe have undoubtedly earned it a spot among the top amiable U.S. states. The locals in its big cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

Famously warm and friendly, South Carolinians make for a pleasant visit. South Carolina exemplifies the warm welcome and friendly people for which the South is famous.

People in Tennessee have that classic Southern attitude, always ready to greet visitors and proud to show off their hometown. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

The most welcoming state in the United States is Superior customer service is what puts Minnesota on top. There's a reason the state gets referred to as "Minnesota Nice"; the people of the Twin Cities and beyond have an inviting, friendly demeanor that's hard to find elsewhere.