List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first, the locals (especially those in the countryside) may New York City may be overwhelming at first, but if you give it time, you'll find that each borough's neighborhoods have a sense of community and that the city itself is a melting pot of many cultures. 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), 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? One of the least welcoming states in the USA, unfortunately.

Massachusetts residents aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference to 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 bona fide Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, can take years.

There is a risk that New Jerseyans' demeanor will be misunderstood as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case Jersey natives are notoriously forthright. While the gas station attendant may not be particularly pleasant, at least they'll pump your gas.

While Washington State often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, its reputation among its residents is decidedly mixed. Seattleites aren't outright unfriendly, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe. Perhaps it's all the precipitation.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. This sense of pride, however, is often 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, the site of the infamous city of Las Vegas, is a state of striking contrasts. Compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. On the whole, Nevadans are not particularly 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. Orlando's tourist-friendly initiatives are a big boon to the state, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go before its reputation catches up.

Your status as an outsider is likely to persist regardless of how long you've lived in Rhode Island if you weren't born and raised there. The citizens of Rhode Island were not given high marks on the "friendliness scale" by Big 7 Travel readers. 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. 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. Compared to larger cities, those in the countryside tend to have a more relaxed vibe.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they tend to be chill about most things. Waiting in line is the perfect time to strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't hold your breath for any genuine smiles. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

The people of Connecticut are friendly and polite, but they tend to be more reserved than other states. In any case Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. In spite of the state's lack of cultural vitality, its residents find common ground at open mike nights and other community gatherings.

Although Alaska is quite remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, so locals are always happy to see visitors. Except for Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of current locals here can relate to the experience of being a stranger in a strange land. They may do this or simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their hospitality. Despite its massive size, the entire state has the feel of a single large town. They are pleasant enough without inviting you to their homes for tea. There is friendly competition between the cities, with a warm welcome extended to visitors.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more hospitable and inviting. Culture-rich Washington, D.C., may come across as conservative and wary to outsiders. C and other major cities, it's a promising location.

Vermonters are known for their warm and welcoming demeanor, making it simple to strike up conversations with complete strangers. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. 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.

Individuals residing in North Carolina are known for their polite demeanor, willingness to assist others, and friendliness toward tourists and fellow citizens. Anyone can be approached with a "hi" in almost any public place, be it a Walmart, a parking lot, or even while waiting at a red light. It's great that people from all over the United States can congregate in this one state.

Utahns are known for their warmth and hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. Salt Lake City is one of the most sociable and lively places to live in the United States, and it is also recognized as one of the most welcoming large cities for the LGBTQ community.

Our readers seem to agree that Maine is a great place to settle down because of its low crime rate and welcoming locals. It's common knowledge that Mainers are friendly and outgoing compared to their New England counterparts, who are known for their reserved demeanor. As soon as you enter, you'll notice this.

If you're traveling around the United States, you'll definitely want to stop in West Virginia and meet some of the friendliest people you meet. This laid-back lifestyle 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.

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. A genuine sense of community permeates the area, as evidenced by the friendly service you'll receive from the cashiers and the eagerness of the roadside farmers to share their wares with you.

Although Michiganders like to think of themselves as a warm and welcoming people, some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be difficult to get to know. In general, the locals here have a great sense of humor, are laid back, and are incredibly polite.

The population density of Maryland is high, and the state is also home to a wide range of cultural traditions. 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.

There are good manners, a strong sense of community, and a positive outlook in Wisconsin, a gem of the Midwest. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country. 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. Readers were very complimentary of the state's friendly atmosphere.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. Yes, Portland's hipster scene can be difficult to enter, but the people there are nice (I swear) once you do. Your dog is welcome here, too, because it is the most pet-friendly state in the United States.

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. 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.

When you meet a Missourian, you can expect to hear their entire life story before you've even said hello. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you treat them well. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that rule of thumb. It's amazing how many strangers go out of their way to help you, from holding the door open to assisting you with your groceries as you make your way to your car.

There are many progressive, forward-thinking communities in South Dakota that are home to enthusiastic and welcoming residents. People will strike up conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, even in the biggest cities. The residents of this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern Nice."

People in Kentucky are generally pleasant no matter what. Locals have the same welcoming demeanor for everyone, whether you were born and raised here or are just passing through. A certain kind of friendliness unique to Kentuckians will have you packing your bags and heading here tomorrow.

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, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. Those who read it gave it high marks for the generosity of total strangers. Look lost There is a good chance that a friendly local will assist you.

You can count on meeting pleasant locals in just about any town in New Mexico. There is a wide variety of people and cultures to experience. New Mexico is home to two cities that were named among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. So there you go.

Assuming a population of 10, Population of 3 million, this southern state 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 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. Those who visit Idaho will find that the state lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to outsiders.

It's hard to beat the friendliness of the people in Illinois's neighboring states. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, Chicago is often ranked above even New York City. Illinois is a great tourist destination because it is home to 19 of the safest cities in the United States, as ranked by Neighborhood Scout.

Some of the nicest people you'll ever meet in the United States are from Nebraska. It has a strong sense of community, with people helping each other out no matter where you look. If you can master the 'one finger' wave while driving, you'll blend in 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. It's also fantastic for families, as there are many events geared specifically toward children.

The hospitality industry in Hawaii is thriving because of the state's strong focus on tourism. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. All the people you meet in paradise will give you a friendly greeting.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. In this area, people are always up for a chat and will do anything they can to protect those within their own community. They treat guests with the same warmth and friendliness as locals.

When visiting Kansas, visitors from other states may be taken aback by the state's renown friendliness. Beautiful scenery and welcoming locals make this state a must-see.

To top off its progressive vibe, Colorado is home to some of the friendliest people on the planet, making for a fantastic vacation destination. It's great for taking the kids, has a wealth of cultural attractions, and will quickly have you feeling like a native. Whether you're in the city of Denver or out in the country, the warmth of the locals will greet you with open arms.

Hoosier residents take great pride in their "Hoosier hospitality," which is known nationally. 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 calm state, its residents make visiting here a blast. Even in large cities, it is not unusual for a stranger to offer to help you with something as simple as getting your car unstuck from the snow or carrying your groceries. Don't bother getting out of the car. Most likely, everything will be fine.

People in Texas are very friendly and often say "Howdy" to strangers. "everywhere you go" has undoubtedly contributed to its status as one of the friendliest states in the USA. The locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

The people of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which makes the state a great vacation destination. South Carolina embodies the warm welcome and generous spirit that have come to define the Southern states.

Tennessee has a lively attitude and the locals are excited to show off their city to visitors, exuding classic Southern hospitality. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

As for the most welcoming state in the Union, it is The people of Minnesota are the friendliest in the country, making the state a clear winner. Minnesota has a reputation for friendliness and hospitality that is second to none, and the state is known far beyond the Twin Cities.