State by State Ranking of the 50 Friendliest Places to Live in the USA

Some of the locals (especially those in the upstate) may come off as rude at 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. 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. Though this bodes well 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. Why do some of our readers view Delaware negatively? Is it because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? Tragically, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

In general, locals in MA aren't rude to tourists, but their indifference 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. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, rather than a tourist, can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. From the results of this poll, it appears that is indeed the case. When it comes to expressing themselves, New Jersey residents tend to be more forthright than those in other states. At least the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will pump your gas for you.

Although Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, when it comes to its residents, things are quite different. 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 heritage. But that pride is often misunderstood as arrogance by those from other cultures. It can be challenging to make friends among the locals here, what with their stubborn natures and the small population.

The state of Nevada, where Sin City is located, is a land of extremes. Las Vegas is a place where "dog eats dog," but neighborly Reno is a better option. 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 huge boon to the state, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go before its reputation catches up.

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

While many native Californians may believe that their state is known for its warm and welcoming culture, our readers have a different opinion. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. Smaller urban centers have a more relaxed atmosphere.

There's no denying that Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are chill enough to make up for it. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

Residents of Connecticut are courteous, reticent, and pleasant overall, but warm and welcoming to visitors. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. 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.

Despite the state's remote location, Alaska relies heavily on the tourism industry; consequently, locals are always happy to meet new visitors. Outside of Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of current Alaskans can relate to the experience of being a newcomer. The alternative is that they will simply ignore you; however, they are not rude in any way.

You won't believe how welcoming and kind Montanans are until you've visited. 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. Tourists and other visitors are met with a warm welcome and friendly banter between the cities.

More and more people from all walks of life are settling in Virginia, giving the state a warm and inviting vibe. 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.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place to make new friends. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. The people of Vermont's small towns can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

People in North Carolina are generally 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 best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

Famously warm and welcoming, Utahns will make you feel right at home. It is widely acknowledged that Salt Lake City is one of the most welcoming large cities in the United States for the LGBTQ community.

A large majority of our readers agree that Maine is a great place to call home due to its low crime rate and welcoming community. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are friendly and outgoing. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

Among the people you'll encounter in your travels across the United States, you'll find West Virginians to be among the most warm and friendly. The relaxed tempo of life here creates a friendly environment. Since West Virginia is largely isolated from the rest of the country by its mountainous terrain, its residents tend to stick together.

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. There is a genuine sense of community, from the friendly faces of the cashiers to the stories of the farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

While most Michiganders like to think of themselves as hospitable, those in Detroit and Ann Arbor in particular can be tough. As a whole, the locals here have a great sense of humor, are laid back, and are incredibly polite.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving and friendly atmosphere. 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; its residents are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. Considering Green Bay's status as one of the United States' happiest cities, its residents' easygoing demeanor is hardly surprising. Is the Packers a possible factor?

This may be one of the least-visited and least-populated states in the United States, but that has nothing to do with its wonderful residents. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without seeking anything in return. The community spirit in this state received high marks from our readers.

As a state, Oregon is known for its residents' friendliness toward those they have never met before. Sure, it may be difficult to break into Portland's hipster scene, but the people there are nice (I swear!). The state is the most pet-friendly in the country, so Fido is guaranteed to fit right in.

Typical of the South, Mississippi exudes a warm and welcoming vibe. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. 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.

Before you can even say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy recounting of his or her life experiences. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

Assuming you carry yourself in a cordial manner, you can expect the same courtesy from your Alabama counterparts. Stick to that golden rule and you’ll see that Alabama is one of the friendliest states in America 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 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."

There is always a friendly face in Kentucky. 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 you pack your bags and head here right away.

Although cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh may not immediately spring to mind when you think of "friendly cities," you'll find that they are. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason; the locals here are always happy to help. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost The average friendly local will probably offer assistance.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It has a chill atmosphere and a wide variety of ethnic and cultural influences. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people And there you have it

With only ten people, Its population of 3 million makes it the most populous state in the southern United States. Rural and urban areas in this state are distinctive, but the people here are warm and welcoming. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Those who read the Big 7 Travel report on Georgia thought it was great.

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.

Illinois is a state in the center of the United States's Midwest, and its residents are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet. The number of tourists visiting Chicago annually exceeds that of New York City. Also, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. A sense of community characterized by people helping each other out can be found virtually anywhere you look. Master the "one finger" wave while behind the wheel, and you'll blend in just like a native.

Locals here will do anything to make you feel at home, despite the troubled history of natural disasters in the area. People of all backgrounds in Louisiana contribute to the state's reputation as one of the friendliest and most 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. It's also fantastic for families, as there are many events and attractions geared toward younger visitors.

Due to Hawaii's strong commitment to the tourist industry, the state's guests are lavished with exceptional levels of service and care. 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.

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. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Kansas is known for its welcoming residents and visitors alike, so don't be surprised if you strike up a conversation with a complete stranger. The friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

Colorado has some of the friendliest people in the world and a progressive culture that makes it a great place to visit. 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. Feeling welcome here is something you'll notice right away, whether you're in Denver or the suburbs.

Residents of Indiana take great pride in their famous "Hoosier hospitality," in which they consistently go out of their way to help those in need. The locals are pleasant, humorous people. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana is so much more than a "fly over" state.

The people of Wyoming make it a great place to visit, despite the state's reputation for relative tranquility. In fact, even in the busiest of cities, it's not unusual for a complete 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. I think it will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" This state's reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has undoubtedly earned it a spot among the top ten friendliest in the United States. Even in its major cities, you'll feel like you're in a friendly small town thanks to the friendly locals who live there.

People from South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which is one of the reasons the state is so enjoyable to visit. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

Tennessee is the epitome of classic Southern hospitality, and its citizens are always excited to show visitors around. 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.

The most welcoming state in the United States is The people of Minnesota are the friendliest in the country, making the state a clear winner. 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.