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

At first glance, locals (especially those in the countryside) could ), but it's a fascinating cultural crossroads, and if you can make it through the initial shock, you'll find that the neighborhoods in each of the five boroughs of New York City have a strong sense of community. You should not linger in the street or impede traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

It's true that Arkansans are extremely welcoming, but only if you're a native. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong there.

Although the entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes of driving time, this does not necessarily make it a welcoming place to its neighbors. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? To make matters worse, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

Residents of Massachusetts aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference toward tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts isn't exactly going to be on the list of friendliest states in America if its residents have a tendency to ignore their fellow citizens. For that matter, it takes some time to earn the respect of longtime Bostonians and become a bona fide resident.

There is a risk that New Jerseyans' demeanor will be misunderstood as rude. It appears that is the case in this poll. People from New Jersey tend to have bold and forthright characters. The (possibly) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

Washington state may be near the top of lists of environmentally-friendly states, but that doesn't mean its residents are. The people of Seattle aren't outright unfriendly, but they do have a certain "polite but unfriendly" air about them, hence the nickname "the Seattle freeze." Could be the constant downpours.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. But that pride can easily be misinterpreted by strangers as arrogance. The residents are known to be unyielding, and the area's low population density and lack of people in general can make it difficult to make friends

Nevada, home to Sin City, is a state of extremes. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a rough place to spend time. Overall, Nevadans are not very hospitable, and few will go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida has its work cut out for it, as Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least welcoming cities in the United States. Although Orlando and its tourist-friendly initiatives are doing a lot to boost the state's reputation, Florida as a whole still has a ways to go.

Some people who aren't native Rhode Islanders just can't shake the feeling that they don't belong there. Readers of Big 7 Travel didn't give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendliness scale." There may be more friendliness in smaller communities, but don't expect a warm welcome from the cashier at your local establishment.

Readers of this publication disagree with the common belief that Californians are exceptionally sociable. 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.

There's no denying that Arizona lacks the Southern's trademark warmth and hospitality, but the locals are chill enough not to mind. Waiting in line is the perfect time to strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't hold your breath for a sea of beaming faces. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. Actually, no. New Englanders have a reputation for being cold and unfriendly, but they will always hold the door for you and smile at you if you visit. In spite of the state's lack of cultural vitality, its residents find common ground at open mike nights and other community gatherings.

It's true that Alaska is in the middle of nowhere, but the state relies heavily on tourism, so locals are always happy to see visitors. Most people in this area, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived here at some point. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you, but in either case they are not rude.

You won't believe how welcoming and friendly everyone in Montana is. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. A nice person like this won't invite you over for tea, but they will still treat you well. Each town has its own unique sense of humor and welcomes visitors with open arms.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some might say that its residents are too traditional and too wary of strangers. C and other major cities, it's a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, making it simple to make new friends. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. 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 visitors. 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.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. To top it all off, Salt Lake City is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly major cities in the United States, making it a wonderful place to live if you enjoy a lively and social environment.

Our readership seems to agree that Mainers' warmth and the state's low crime rate make it an attractive place to settle down. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are friendly and outgoing. Upon your arrival, you'll notice this right away.

When traveling across the United States, you'll find that West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm people you'll meet. The relaxed tempo of life here creates a friendly environment. The mountains in West Virginia create a strong sense of community by isolating the state from the rest of the country.

Iowans have a reputation for friendliness and kindness due to their habit of greeting complete strangers with a smile and a wave as they pass them on the street. There is a genuine sense of community there, 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 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. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving, social 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, with friendly, polite citizens who value their communities and enjoy life. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in America, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. What role, if any, could the Packers play?

Although the locals may be wonderful, this state is one of the least populated and visited in the United States. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand with no strings attached. The state received high marks from our readers for its friendly atmosphere.

The citizens of Oregon are widely known for their friendliness toward total strangers. Even though Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to break into, the people there are nice (I swear). Your dog is welcome here, too, because it is the most pet-friendly state in the United States.

Mississippi is an endearing state that embodies the best 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.

Before you can even say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy account of their life experiences. Sincerity and genuine interest in one another's company are not in short supply among these people.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you treat them well. 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.

Communities across South Dakota are forward-thinking and brimming with active, welcoming residents. Here, people of all ages and backgrounds will strike up casual conversations with total strangers, even in the biggest cities. People in this region are the epitome of "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 you pack your bags and move here tomorrow.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually are. The phrase "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

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

The town has a total of 10 residents. 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 major metropolitan areas like Atlanta, forming meaningful relationships with locals is a breeze. Many of the readers of Big 7 Travel praised Georgia.

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. Indeed, Idahoans live up to the state's reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to incredibly warm and welcoming people. Despite New York City's popularity among tourists, Chicago is often ranked higher. 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. There is a palpable sense of community, with people of all walks of life pitching in to help out those in need. If you can master the "one finger" wave while behind the wheel, you'll feel like a true native.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. 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 good manners and friendly demeanor, making the Buckeye State a prime example of the Midwest ideal. When visitors ask where they should go to eat or drink, locals are happy to give recommendations. There are many options for children and families to enjoy themselves.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. It must be good for the spirit to live in paradise, because everyone you meet will greet you with a friendly smile.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. People here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Visitors from other states may be surprised by the famous Kansas friendliness, so strike up conversations with seemingly anyone you come across. The warmth and friendliness of the locals to tourists are what truly set this state apart.

Because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals, Colorado is a great vacation destination. 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 warmth of this place from the moment you land, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

Hoosier residents take great pride in their "Hoosier hospitality," which is known nationally. The locals have a positive disposition and an excellent sense of humor. Indiana is more than just a "fly over" state; after visiting, you'll always remember it as home.

Though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make it a lively and exciting destination. Even in large urban areas, it is not unusual for a stranger to offer to help you with something as simple as unsticking your car from the snow or carrying your groceries. Never take your keys out of the car. Most likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its welcoming culture and "everywhere you go" attitude have undoubtedly earned it a spot among the friendliest states in the United States. The locals in its big cities will make you feel right at home, as if you'd traveled to one of the smaller towns that surround them.

The warm hospitality of South Carolinians is well-known, and the state is often cited as a top 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.

Finally, 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 why the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the Twin Cities and surrounding areas have an inviting, friendly vibe that's hard to find elsewhere.