Ranking the 50 Friendliest States in the U.S.

At first glance, the locals (especially those in the upstate) may If you can make it through the hustle and bustle of the city, you'll be rewarded with a community feel in one of New York City's many culturally diverse boroughs. Only, don't linger in the street or impede traffic while snapping photos for Instagram.

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.

The state of Delaware is so small that it can be crossed in 90 minutes by car, but its size doesn't necessarily equate to neighborliness. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? It's one of the least welcoming states in the country, which is a shame.

There isn't much in the way of rudeness from locals in MA, but the general indifference towards visitors can be wearing. Massachusetts isn't going to be on anyone's list of the friendliest states in America if its residents have a tendency to ignore them. Becoming a full-fledged resident of Boston rather than viewed as a temporary visitor can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. This survey seems to confirm that to be the case. The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. The (possibly) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

When it comes to environmental friendliness, Washington state may consistently rank high, but when it comes to people, it's a different story. 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 home. A lot of times, though, other people take that pridefulness for arrogance. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Nevada, home to Sin City, is a state of extremes. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. Most people in Nevada won't go out of their way to help a complete stranger.

Florida certainly has its work cut out for it, what with Miami consistently ranking as one of the least hospitable 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.

There's a good chance that anyone who wasn't raised in Rhode Island would always be considered a stranger there. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendly scale." 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 isn't exactly the City of Angels. Casual lifestyles prevail in smaller urban centers.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough. 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. Nice indifference to other people, really

The people of Connecticut are friendly and outgoing despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. A lot less than that People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they'll still open doors and greet you if you ask. Not the most culturally rich state, but open mike nights and other community gatherings help keep people connected.

While residents of Alaska may feel cut off from the rest of the world, the state's reliance on tourism means they're more than happy to open their arms to visitors. The vast majority of Alaskans, with the exception of Native Alaskans, are immigrants who arrived in the state at some point in their lives. It's either that or they'll completely ignore you; either way, they're not rude.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their hospitality. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. They are pleasant enough without inviting you over for tea, but you won't be invited to anyone's house. In general, the towns have a good time with each other and have welcoming attitudes toward visitors.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more hospitable and warm. Culturally rich Washington, D.C. may come across as conservative and wary to outsiders. C It's a great place to live because of its proximity to other major cities.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, so it shouldn't be hard to make friends here. Because of the abundance of tourists, the locals are friendly and willing to go out of their way to accommodate them. Newcomers to Vermont's smaller communities may have to wait a while before they're fully accepted, but once they do, they'll have friends for life.

The people who call North Carolina home are known for their politeness, willingness to aid strangers, and warm welcome to visitors. People will greet you with a "hi" almost anywhere: the grocery store, the parking lot, the stoplight. One of the best things about the state is how diverse its population is.

You'll quickly feel at home in Utah thanks to the state's welcoming population. 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 culture and nightlife.

Most of our readers 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. Right when you walk in, you'll notice this.

The people of West Virginia are known to be among the friendliest and most helpful you'll encounter anywhere in the United States. The relaxed tempo of life here helps create a friendly environment. To some extent, the mountains in West Virginia serve as a barrier between the state and the rest of the country, contributing to the state's tight-knit sense of community.

People in Iowa are known for being friendly and helpful, as evidenced by the frequent use of "how are yous" and "hellos" in everyday situations. Everyone is friendly and helpful, whether you're at the register or talking to a roadside farmer about his or her delicious produce.

Despite the state's reputation for friendliness, some major cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor can be extremely difficult to connect with. People here have a good sense of humor and are laid back and polite, typical of the Midwest.

In addition to having a high population density, Maryland also features a culturally rich population. Being welcoming to strangers makes for a lively and engaging hangout spot. In a Baltimore bar, you're sure to meet some of your new best friends for life.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest; its residents are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. Because Green Bay is one of the happiest cities in America, its residents are naturally friendly. Is there a chance it's connected to the Packers?

You won't find many people living here or tourists passing through, but that has nothing to do with the quality of the people who do call it home. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and generosity. Communities in the state received high marks from our readers.

Oregonians have a reputation for friendliness toward strangers. The Portland hipster scene may be difficult to enter, but the people there are nice, I swear. It also has the highest percentage of pet-friendly households in the United States.

It's undeniable that Mississippi is a beautiful state, full of all the warmth and hospitality that the South is famous One thing that often surprises visitors to Mississippi is how welcoming the locals are. Once you stop bragging about how great it is "up North" to the locals, they will treat you like family and treat you like one of the family.

Before you can even say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a detailed account of their entire life. People here are genuine in both their friendliness and interest in the perspectives of total strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you treat them well. If you follow that simple rule, you'll soon discover that Alabama is among the friendliest states in the Union. Just because they want to be nice, strangers will do nice things like hold the door open and help you carry your groceries to your car.

There are many progressive, forward-thinking towns in South Dakota populated by engaged and welcoming locals. There is a strong culture of open conversation, even in the largest cities. Topics range from the weather to sports. It's safe to say that the residents of this region personify 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 pack their bags and head to the Bluegrass State.

Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are two cities that might not immediately spring to mind when you think of "friendly cities," but you'd be wrong. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason; the people here are genuinely warm and helpful. 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.

You can count on meeting pleasant locals in just about any town in New Mexico. It has a chill vibe and a rich variety of cultural influences. 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. Well, there you have it.

Only 10 people live there, so it's pretty empty. 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.

Numerous readers agreed with the widespread belief that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. Indeed, the state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to extremely welcoming locals. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. Also, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

Nebraskans are among the friendliest people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. A sense of community characterized by people helping one another can be found virtually anywhere you look. If you can master the "one finger" wave while driving, you'll blend in just 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 a wide variety of backgrounds, but they all contribute to what makes the state one of the most welcoming and enjoyable in the United States.

Ohioans are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine enthusiasm for life in the Midwest. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or bar to visitors. Also, there are many options for children to enjoy themselves here, making it a fantastic destination for families.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. The "Aloha Spirit" that is so characteristic of Hawaii. Everyone you meet will give you a friendly smile, as if living in paradise actually has a positive effect on your mental health.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. These folks are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They treat guests with the same warmth as locals.

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 warmth of the locals towards tourists is what makes their state so special.

Colorado is a great state to visit because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals. 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 famous "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. Indiana is more than a "fly over" state, and after just one visit, you'll feel a special connection to it.

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 bother getting out of the car. In all likelihood, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its reputation as one of the most welcoming places in the United States is due in no small part to the fact that people are generally nice everywhere you go. The locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

The people of South Carolina are known far and wide for their warmth and hospitality, which is just one of the many reasons the state is a great vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the Southern tradition of warm hospitality and generous spirit.

Tennessee has that classic Southern charm going strong, and the locals there have a buzzing mentality and a desire to show off their city to visitors. It's already one of the friendliest states in America, but when you factor in its thriving music scene, it's easy to see why.

As for the most welcoming state in the Union, it is Winner: Minnesota, whose residents stand out for their warmth and hospitality. 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.