List of the 50 Friendliest U.S. States

The locals (especially those in the upstate) may come off as rude at 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. However, you shouldn't linger in the street or impede traffic while taking photos for Instagram.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), the locals will treat you well. And while that bodes well for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling awkward 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? The bad news is that it's one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

Massachusetts residents aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference to visitors can be off-putting. Massachusetts is not exactly one of the friendliest states in America due to its residents' tendency to ignore them. Becoming a full-fledged Bostonian, as opposed to merely a temporary resident, can take years.

In some cases, the Jersey way of life can come across as rude. And according to the results of this poll, that's unquestionably the situation The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

Although Washington State typically performs well on lists of environmentally-friendly states, it fares much worse when the focus shifts to its residents. 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 full of devoted citizens who take great pride in their home. This sense of pride, however, is often misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. The locals are known to be obstinate, and the area's low population density and widespread farmland can make it difficult to make new friends.

Nevada, home to Sin City, is a state of striking contrasts. A more welcoming and less cutthroat alternative to Las Vegas is Reno. When it comes to helping strangers, Nevadans generally won't go out of their way.

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 still has some catching up to do.

Unless you've lived in Rhode Island your whole life, you probably won't be accepted as a true local. The residents of Rhode Island weren't very high on the 'friendly scale' according to Big 7 Travel readers. It's true that people in smaller communities are warmer to strangers, but don't expect a friendly face at the register anywhere.

A lot of people in California like to think of themselves as friendly, but our readers would disagree. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. The pace of life is slower 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. As a whole, it's a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their politeness, reserve, and general niceness. Not really Despite the region's reputation for coldness, you can count on a friendly greeting and a helping hand wherever you go. It's not the most culturally rich state, but people still manage to come together at open mike nights and other community events.

Although Alaska is quite remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, so locals are always happy to see visitors. Other than Alaska Natives, most of the locals here have been transplants at some point in their lives. They may do this or simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

In Montana, you'll find a welcoming community of friendly people. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a single large town. The people are pleasant enough, but you won't be invited to their homes for tea. Between cities, there is friendly banter, with an upbeat outlook on 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 city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C in comparison to other major cities, which makes it a good place to live.

It's not hard to meet new people and form friendships in Vermont because of the state's affable populace. Because of the abundance of tourists, the locals are friendly and willing to go out of their way to accommodate them. Vermonters in smaller communities can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

The people who call North Carolina home are known for their politeness, 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." One of the best things about this 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 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 call home because of its low crime rate and welcoming community. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are friendly and outgoing. The moment you step foot in this location, you'll notice this.

Some of the warmest and most friendly people you'll encounter in your travels across the United States will be West Virginians. 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 essentially walled off 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. People are friendly and helpful (even the cashiers), and you can buy fresh produce directly from farmers along the road.

The people of Michigan like to think of themselves as a welcoming and sociable bunch, but some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be difficult to get to know. People here have a good sense of humor, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

Population-wise, Maryland is high up there with the rest of the states, and the state is also home to a wide range of cultural traditions. Given its welcoming nature toward strangers, it is a lively and engaging place to spend some time with friends and strangers alike. 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 friendly, polite citizens who value their communities and enjoy life. Given that Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in America, it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. 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 willingness to lend a hand without demanding anything in return. The state received high marks from our readers for its friendly atmosphere.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. Although Portland's hipster culture may be difficult to break into, the people there are nice (I swear). Also, your dog is guaranteed to be accepted here, as this state is ranked highest in the country for pet friendliness.

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 bragging about how much better life is "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like one of the family.

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 are genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

In Alabama, if you're a nice person, everyone will be nice to you. 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.

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."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are friendly. Everyone, native or visitor, is welcomed with open arms by the friendly locals. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone pack their bags and head to the Bluegrass State right away.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually are. Pennsylvanians are so warm and welcoming that the state's motto, "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania," was coined for this very reason. As far as random acts of kindness from strangers go, our readers gave it high marks. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

New Mexicans, in general, are known for their warmth and hospitality. It has a chill atmosphere and a wide variety of ethnic and cultural influences. In addition, two cities in New Mexico's Top 20 Retirement Cities for LGBT People in 2018 are located in the state's "Land of Enchantment." So there you go.

With only ten people, This state in the southern United States has a population of over 3 million and a diverse landscape of urban and suburban areas, but its residents are known for their warmth and hospitality. Meeting new people is simple, even in larger cities like Atlanta. The citizens of Georgia were highly regarded by Big 7 Travel readers.

People from all over the country will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest you'll meet, 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.

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. As an added bonus, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it an attractive tourist destination.

Nebraskans are among the friendliest people 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.

It has had a tumultuous history with natural disasters, but the locals 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.

Ohioans are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine interest in the well-being of others. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or watering hole to visitors. It's also fantastic for families, as there are many events geared specifically toward children.

Because tourism is Hawaii's main industry, visitors can expect exceptional service. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet in paradise will greet you with a friendly smile, so clearly paradise has a healing effect on the human psyche.

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. People who visit there will receive the same warm welcome.

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 towards tourists is one of the state's many attractive features.

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 great for families, there's a ton to do culturally, and tourists quickly feel at home here. You can feel the warmth of this place from the moment you land, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

Hoosiers are known for their generous nature and "Hoosier hospitality," the state's unique brand of "hospitality." The locals have a positive demeanor and an entertaining 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 tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. People in even the largest cities often go out of their way to help strangers, whether it's digging a car out of the snow or carrying groceries. Just drive off without your keys. Most likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" are a trademark. 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 major cities will make you feel right at home, as if you'd traveled to one of the smaller towns that surround them.

In addition to its beautiful landscapes, South Carolina is also known for its warm and friendly locals. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

It's easy to see that Tennessee is brimming with that classic Southern charm; the locals there have a positive, upbeat vibe and are eager to show off their city to visitors. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

And the winner is among America's friendliest states The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state ranks first. The Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have an unbeatable "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals who go out of their way to make visitors feel at home.