List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

At first glance, locals (especially those in the countryside) could 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. Don't block the sidewalk or cause traffic delays by taking photos for Instagram, though.

The people of Arkansas tend to be warm and welcoming if (and only if) you're a native. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

The entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes of driving, but despite its diminutive size, its residents are anything but neighborly. Is it the state of Delaware's (potentially unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live that turns off our readers? Unfortunately, it is 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. For that matter, it takes some time to earn the respect of longtime Bostonians and become a bona fide resident.

It's easy to mistake the Jersey way of life for outright rudeness. In fact, according to the results of this poll, that appears to be the situation People from the Garden State have a reputation for being blunt and direct. Still, at least the (possibly unfriendly) gas station worker will fill up your tank.

If you're looking at environmental friendliness, the state of Washington may always be near the top of the list. 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. 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 small population in the countryside 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 rough place to spend time. People in Nevada generally aren't very willing to go out of their way to help a complete stranger.

Florida has its work cut out for it, as 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 still has a ways to go.

It's safe to assume that anyone who wasn't raised in Rhode Island has a permanent status as an outsider there. When asked to rate Rhode Islanders on a "friendly scale," Big 7 Travel readers didn't give them high marks. 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 is no City of Angels. There is a more relaxed atmosphere in smaller towns.

Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but its locals are chill enough to overlook this. While waiting in line, you might strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't count on anyone breaking out into a huge grin. Instead, it's a pleasant indifference to other people.

Locals in the Constitution State are courteous, unassuming, and pleasant overall, but they'll go out of their way to make you feel Not really Despite the region's reputation for coolness, you can count on a friendly greeting and a door held open when you visit New England. It's not the most culturally rich state, but people still manage to have fun and get together at open mike nights and other community events.

Even though Alaska is in the middle of nowhere, welcoming tourists is a major source of revenue, 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 may do so, or they may simply ignore you, but in either case they are not rude.

Montanans are among the friendliest people you'll ever meet. 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. There is friendly competition between the cities, with a warm welcome extended to visitors.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the area as conservative and wary of newcomers. C and other major cities, it's a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, so it shouldn't be hard to make friends here. Because tourism is so important to the area's economy, residents are generally eager to go the extra mile to accommodate 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.

Locals in North Carolina are known for their politeness, friendliness, and willingness to help both visitors and fellow citizens. Greetings are commonplace in public places like Walmart and parking lots, or even while waiting at a red light. One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

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

Our readership seems to agree that Mainers' warmth and the state's low crime rate make it an attractive place to settle down. The people of New England are known for their reserved nature, but Mainers are known for their openness and friendliness. As soon as you step foot in this location, you'll notice this.

West Virginians are among the friendliest and most hospitable people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. The relaxed tempo of life here creates a friendly environment. A tight-knit sense of community exists 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. 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. People here have a great sense of humor and are laid back and polite in that classic Midwestern way.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. As a result of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has become a lively and exciting place to spend time with friends. There are plenty of bars in Baltimore where you can meet some of your new best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the Midwest thanks to its friendly, polite, and positive populace. As one of the United States' happiest cities, Green Bay's residents are naturally friendly. What role, if any, could the Packers play in this?

Although the locals may be wonderful, this state is one of the least populated and visited in the United States. People from North Dakota are known for being approachable and helpful, often without any sort of payment or reward being expected in return. When asked about the state's sense of community, our readers gave it high marks.

The citizens of Oregon are widely known for their friendliness toward total strangers. The Portland hipster scene may be difficult to break into, but the people there are nice (I swear). Even Fido is welcome here, as this state is the most pet-friendly in the country.

Mississippi is a beautiful state full of genuine Southern hospitality. People from out of state are often taken aback by how welcoming Mississippians are. 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.

People in Missouri are notoriously bad at keeping secrets, and they will spill the beans before you've even had a chance to say hello. They're genuine in their friendliness, and they seem to enjoy hearing from total strangers.

Everything and everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you are friendly. You'll find that Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you just remember that one rule. 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 populated by enthusiastic, helpful residents. Here, even in the largest cities, people are comfortable striking up conversations with total strangers about anything from the weather to the latest football game. Everyone here is the epitome of "Midwestern nice."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are friendly. It doesn't matter if you're a lifelong resident or just passing through; the locals will treat you with the same warmth and friendliness. 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. With regards to random acts of kindness, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It has a chill vibe and a wide variety of ethnic and cultural influences. As an added bonus, two New Mexico cities made it into the Top 20 LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in 2018. That sums it up

With only ten 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. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

There is a common belief that Idahoans are among the friendliest people in the country. The locals are genuinely warm and inviting, and not in a stalkerish way. When it comes to welcoming visitors, Idaho more than lives up to its reputation.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to incredibly welcoming locals. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's most popular destinations for international visitors. It's also a pretty good state to visit: 19 of the safest cities in America are located in Illinois.

Nebraskans are among the friendliest people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. An overwhelming sense of community service can be observed in every direction. Become an almost native driver by learning the "one finger" wave.

In spite of the recent natural disasters, the locals here will do anything to make you feel at home. 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.

For good manners and a genuine willingness to help others, look no further than Ohio, a model of the Midwest. All visitors are welcome in the eyes of the locals, and they will gladly recommend their favorite restaurant or bar. 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. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet in paradise will greet you with a friendly smile, suggesting that there is some psychological benefit to living in this location.

The Big Friendly isn't a nickname for Oklahoma City's capital city for nothing; Oklahoma truly is one of the friendliest states in the Union. Regardless of the situation, people here will always look out for their own community and are always up for a chat. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Visitors 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 friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

Visit Colorado and you'll experience a progressive environment populated by some of the friendliest people on the planet. 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. Whether you're in the city of Denver or the suburbs, the warmth of the locals will greet you with open arms.

The residents of Indiana take great pride in their famous "Hoosier hospitality," in which they consistently 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.

Although Wyoming is generally a calm state, its residents make it a lively and entertaining 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. Don't even bother coming back to get the keys. All things considered, it's probably going to make it.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" are a trademark. Its reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has helped make it one of the friendliest states in the United States. The locals in its major cities will make you feel like you've come home to a small town when you visit.

The people of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which makes the state a great vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

Traditional Southern hospitality is alive and well in Tennessee, where residents are energized by the presence of 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 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.