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

At first glance, the locals (especially those in the upstate) may New York City may seem overwhelming at first, but if you give it time, you'll see that each of the five boroughs offers a diverse range of neighborhoods with a strong sense of community. Don't block the sidewalk or cause traffic delays by taking photos for Instagram, though.

If you're from there, or at least a native Arkansan, you'll find that Arkansans are among the friendliest people in the country. While this is great 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? Unfortunately, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

Locals in MA aren't rude, but their indifference to 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.

In some cases, the Jersey way of life can come across as rude. The results of this poll seem to back up that conclusion. The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

While Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, it has a much more mixed reputation when it comes 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, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. Yet, this sense of pride is often misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. The locals are unfriendly, and the area's low population density and widespread farmland make it difficult to make new friends.

Nevada, the site of the infamous Sin City, is a state of striking contrasts. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. People in Nevada generally aren't very willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida has its work cut out for it if Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least friendly cities in America. 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.

Unless you've lived in Rhode Island your whole life, you probably won't be accepted as a true local. According to Big 7 readers, Rhode Islanders aren't particularly hospitable. Smaller communities tend to be friendlier, but even the cashier at the corner store probably won't smile at you.

Many of our readers do not agree with the widespread belief that Californians are particularly friendly, despite the state's widespread promotion of this stereotype. When it comes to friendliness toward visitors, Los Angeles is no City of Angels. In fact, the city has an air of indifference that occasionally crosses the line into rudeness. More relaxed lifestyles can be found in smaller towns.

Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are generally chill. When waiting in line, it's the kind of place where total strangers will start talking to each other; however, you shouldn't count on anyone being overly cheerful. Kind of a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. I wouldn't say that at all People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they'll still open doors and greet you if you ask. Although it isn't the most culturally active state, its residents are able to come together through open mike nights and other community events.

Although Alaska is in the middle of nowhere, its residents are always happy to see visitors because the tourism industry is so important to the state's economy. In fact, with the exception of Alaska Natives, the vast majority of the locals here are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

Montanans are among the friendliest people you'll ever meet. Despite its massive size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. Despite how nice they are, you won't be invited over for tea. A friendly atmosphere prevails among the cities, and visitors are warmly welcomed.

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

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming. Because of the abundance of tourists, the locals are friendly and willing to go out of their way to assist foreigners. Although the locals of a small Vermont town may take some time to warm up to newcomers, once they do, you'll have friends for life.

North Carolinians, in general, have a pleasant demeanor and are helpful and welcoming to visitors and strangers alike. Wherever two people are in close proximity, they will inevitably exchange "hi's," whether they're in Walmart, the parking lot, or waiting for a red light to change. One of the state's greatest features is the eclectic mix of people who call it home.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home. 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 readership seems to agree that Mainers' warmth and the state's low crime rate make it an attractive place to settle down. Those from New England are notoriously shy, but Mainers are known for their openness and friendliness. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

Visitors to the United States will find West Virginians to be among the most warm and friendly they encounter. The relaxed tempo of life here creates a welcoming ambiance. West Virginians feel safe from the outside world thanks to the state's fortifying mountain range.

People in Iowa are known for being friendly and helpful, as evidenced by the prevalence of "hellos" and "waves" to passers-by. There is a genuine sense of community, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

People in Michigan like to think of themselves as a welcoming and sociable bunch, but some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be tough to get to know. People 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. Its openness to outsiders means that it’s a vibrant and social place to spend some time The local bar scene in Baltimore is fantastic for meeting potential best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest, with its friendly locals, strong sense of community, and positive outlook. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest places in the United States, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. Possibly the Packers are involved.

It's not because of the quality of the locals that this is one of the least populated and least visited states in the United States. People from North Dakota are friendly and helpful, and they don't expect 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 enter, the people there are nice (I swear). You can bring your dog along because it is the most pet-friendly state in the USA.

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 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.

Missourians are notorious for launching into lengthy monologues before you've even said hello. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

Alabama is a state full of nice people, and if you treat them with kindness, they will treat you with kindness. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that rule of thumb. 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. The culture here encourages open conversation between strangers, even in the largest cities. The residents of this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern Nice."

No matter what you're going through, you'll find that people in Kentucky will treat you with kindness. Whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, you can expect the same warm welcome from the locals. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone consider making the state their permanent home.

The likes of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are not necessarily the first places that come to mind when you think of "friendly cities," but 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 There is a good chance that a friendly local will offer assistance.

The people of New Mexico are among the friendliest you'll meet anywhere. It has a relaxed atmosphere and a wide variety of cultural influences. In addition, two New Mexico cities ranked among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in 2018. So there you go.

Home to just 10 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. 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 warm and inviting, and not in a nosy manner. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for genuine friendliness and acceptance of strangers.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to incredibly warm and welcoming people. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. According to Neighborhood Scout, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in the state of Illinois, making it a good destination for tourists.

It's true what they say about Nebraskans: they're some of the friendliest people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. An overwhelming sense of community service can be observed in every direction. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in just like a native.

While the area has had a rough go of it recently due to natural disasters, the locals will do anything they can to make you feel at home. Even though 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.

The people of Ohio are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine enthusiasm for life. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or watering hole to visitors. In addition to being a fantastic destination for couples, it also caters to families with a wide variety of fun things to do.

Hawaii puts a lot of effort into catering to tourists, so they are well taken care of in every other way as well. There is a special "Aloha Spirit" there. Everyone here seems happy all the time, so it's safe to assume that paradise does something good for the spirit.

One of the friendliest states in the USA, Oklahoma City deserves its moniker "The Big Friendly." 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 warmth and friendliness 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 great for families, is relatively risk-free, and has so much history and tradition that tourists quickly begin to feel at home. Whether you're in the city of Denver or out in the country, the warmth of the people here is something you'll notice right away.

The people of Indiana take great pride in their legendary "Hoosier hospitality," in which they routinely go out of their way to help strangers. The locals have a positive disposition and an entertaining sense of humor. Indiana is more than just a "fly over" state; after visiting, you'll always remember it as home.

Although Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make it a lively and exciting destination. A genuine sense of community exists even in the largest of cities; it is not unusual for a complete stranger to help you carry your groceries or free your stuck car from the snow. Don't even bother getting the keys out of the ignition. Most likely, everything will be fine.

In Texas, the locals are always upbeat and ready with a "Howdy." 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 right at home, as if you'd traveled to one of the smaller towns that surround them.

The people of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which makes the state a great vacation destination. South Carolina embodies the Southern tradition of warm welcome with gusto.

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. Combine that with one of the most active music scenes in the country, and it's easy to see why this is such a welcoming place to live.

The most welcoming state in the United States is Residents of Minnesota are some of the friendliest people in the country. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice": the Twin Cities and surrounding areas exude a genuine friendliness and hospitality that are unrivaled anywhere else.