Ranking the 50 Friendliest States in the U.S.

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 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. That may bode well for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, but it may leave out-of-towners feeling awkward and unwelcome.

You can drive across the entire state of Delaware in under an hour, but that doesn't make it any more neighborly. What makes our readers assume that Delaware is unwelcoming? Is it its (possibly unfair) reputation as boring? Sad to say, it's 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 isn't exactly one of the friendliest states in America if its residents are characterized by their tendency to ignore one another. Becoming a full-fledged Bostonian, rather than a temporary resident, can take years of hard work.

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 The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. Although the (likely) unfriendly station attendant will pump your gas, at least it's convenient!

The Evergreen State may be near the top of lists of environmentally-friendly states, but its human residents are a different story. Though Seattleites don't come across as rude, they do give off a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, earning the city its nickname, "Seattle freeze." Perhaps it's all the wet weather

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. That self-respect, however, is often misread as arrogance by those from the outside looking in. Locals tend to be unyielding, and the area's low population density and lack of urban centers can make it difficult to make new friends.

Nevada, the location of the infamous "Sin City," is a state of striking contrasts. A more welcoming and less cutthroat alternative to Las Vegas is Reno. People in Nevada generally aren't very 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. Florida's reputation is slowly but surely improving thanks to cities like Orlando and their tourist-friendly initiatives, but the state as a whole still has some work to do.

Unless you've lived in Rhode Island all your life, you probably won't be accepted as a true local. 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.

It's a common misconception that Californians are a friendly bunch, but our readers beg to differ. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. In contrast to the hectic pace of the big city, life in a smaller metropolis tends to be more

Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are chill enough to make up for it. In the waiting area, you might strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't hold your breath for a sea of beaming faces. Rather, it's a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. Maybe not as much 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. 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 might do that, or they might just ignore you, but either way, they're not rude.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their friendliness and hospitality. In spite of its considerable size, the entire state has the feel of a single large town. They are pleasant enough without inviting you to their homes for tea. The townspeople joke around and treat visitors with friendliness.

As the state's population becomes more ethnically and racially diverse, it becomes even more welcoming and friendly. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C it's a great place to live because of its proximity to other cities.

Because of the welcoming nature of Vermonters, making new friends is a breeze. With so many tourists passing through, the locals will go out of their way to assist you. Those in small towns in Vermont may be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

The people who call North Carolina home tend to be polite, helpful, and welcoming. Even while waiting at a red light, people will often greet one another in the aisles of a Walmart or the parking lot. One of the state's best features is the eclectic mix of people who call it home.

Locals in Utah 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, and it also has a wonderful social scene.

Readers seem to agree that Maine is a good place to call home because of its low crime rate and welcoming population. Contrary to popular belief, Mainers are not as reserved as their New England counterparts. That's 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. 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 largely isolated from the rest of the country by mountains.

Iowans have a reputation for friendliness and generosity, as evidenced by their frequent use of "howdy" and "how are you" greetings in public. People are friendly and helpful (even the cashiers), and you can buy fresh produce directly from farmers along the road.

Even though Michiganders like to think of themselves as a welcoming and sociable people, 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.

Maryland has a large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states in the country. Thanks to its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has become a lively and engaging hangout spot for locals and visitors alike. It's not hard to find your new best friends in a Baltimore bar.

Wisconsin is a bright spot in the Midwest, with friendly locals who value their community and a positive outlook on life. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

This is one of the least-populated and visited states in America, but it’s certainly nothing to do with its great locals The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without seeking anything in return. On a scale from 0 to 10, how well do you think this state fosters a sense of community?

The citizens of Oregon are widely known for their friendliness toward total strangers. Sure, it may be difficult to break into Portland's hipster scene, but the people there are nice (I swear!). It also has the highest percentage of pet-friendly households in the United States.

Mississippi is an endearing state full of homey touches typical of the South. Foreigners are often taken aback by the warm welcome they receive in Mississippi. The natives are extremely friendly, and they will make you feel at home as long as you refrain from bragging about how much better life is "up North."

Before you've even had a chance to say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a detailed account of their entire life. There is no pretense here; people are genuinely friendly and interested in one another.

Everyone in Alabama will treat you with kindness if you treat them with kindness first. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in America if you follow that rule of thumb. Some random person will hold the door open for you, and others will offer to help you carry your groceries out to your car.

South Dakota is home to a wide variety of thriving, progressive communities populated by actively involved, welcoming locals. 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. The friendly locals don't care if you were born and raised here or if you're just passing through. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone consider making the state their permanent home.

A city like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh might not be the first that comes to mind when you think of "friendly cities," but that's not how it is at all. There's a reason the slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" exists: the people here are famously warm and welcoming. According to our poll, people are more likely to help complete strangers if they see them featured. Look lost If you ask nicely, a friendly local might even offer assistance.

Almost everywhere you go in New Mexico, you'll find nice people. The atmosphere is chill and the range of cultures represented is impressive. The state of New Mexico is home to two cities that were named among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. In any case, there it is.

Only 10 people live there, so it's pretty empty. 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. It’s easy to get to know people here, even in larger cities like Atlanta Some of the readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

Repeatedly, you will hear that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country; our readers agree. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. True to its reputation, Idaho welcomes visitors with open arms and genuine kindness.

State of Illinois, located smack dab in the middle of the Midwest, is known for its warm and welcoming citizens. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. 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. There's a real sense of community here, with people pitching in to help one another. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in just like a native.

Despite the recent natural disasters, the locals here will do anything to make you feel at home. Although Louisiana is home to a wide variety of cultures, its residents have one thing in common: they make it one of the friendliest and best places to live in the United States.

When it comes to good manners and genuine kindness toward strangers, Ohio is a shining example of the Midwest at its finest. The locals are friendly and will gladly recommend their favorite restaurant or bar to visitors. And because there are so many things to do there that are geared toward children, it's also fantastic 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 give you a friendly wave and a positive attitude suggests that there must be some psychological benefit to living in paradise.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. The locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. It's not just locals who treat guests well.

Visitors from other states may be taken aback by the legendary friendliness of Kansans, so strike up conversations with complete strangers at will. The warmth of the locals toward visitors is one of the state's greatest attractions.

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. You can feel the friendliness of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

The people of Indiana take great pride in their famous "Hoosier hospitality," in which they routinely go out of their way to help strangers. Those who live in this area have a positive demeanor and a great sense of humor. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana is so much more than a "fly over" state.

It's true that Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state overall, but its residents are what really set the mood. Even in major metropolitan areas, it is not unusual for a complete stranger to offer assistance with tasks such as shoveling snow or carrying groceries. Don't bother getting out of the car. Hopefully, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" The welcoming people you meet "everywhere you go" have undoubtedly helped make this state one of the friendliest in the United States. The people in its big cities will make you feel like you've come home to a friendly small town.

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

Tennessee is a great example of classic Southern hospitality, with friendly locals who are always eager to show visitors around. 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 Top honors go to Minnesota, whose residents are known for being among the friendliest in the country. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the people of the Twin Cities and beyond go above and beyond to make visitors feel at home.