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

At first glance, locals (especially those from the countryside) could New York City may be overwhelming at first, but if you give it time, you'll find that each borough's neighborhoods have a sense of community and that the city as a whole is a fascinating melting pot of cultures. 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. 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 state of Delaware is quite compact and can be traversed in under an hour and a half, its size should not be mistaken for neighborliness. Is it that our readers' preconceptions of Delaware's amiability stem from the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? One of the least welcoming states in the USA, unfortunately.

People in MA aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference to tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts is not exactly one of America's friendliest states due to its residents' tendency to ignore them. Becoming a full-fledged Bostonian, as opposed to merely a temporary resident, can take years.

There is a risk that New Jerseyans' demeanor will be misunderstood as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it seems like that's the case Jersey natives are notoriously forthright. But hey, at least the (probably unfriendly) station attendant will pump your gas for you

If you're looking at environmental friendliness, the state of Washington may always be near the top of the list. Seattleites aren't outright unfriendly, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe. Perhaps the constant precipitation is to blame.

The residents of New Hampshire take great pride in their state and its natural beauty. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misunderstood as arrogance by those from other cultures. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Las Vegas, Nevada is in a state of extremes. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. In general, Nevadans are not overly willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

When you consider that Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least welcoming cities in the United States, you can see that Florida has its work cut out for it. 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 didn't give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendliness scale." While the local cashier is more likely to smile in a smaller neighborhood, they won't exactly go out of their way to make you feel welcome.

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 is no hospitable city. In fact, it has a reputation for being unfriendly to those who aren't already familiar with the area. The pace of life is slower in smaller towns.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough. While waiting in line, you might strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't count on anyone breaking out in a full-blown smile. A pleasant indifference to other people.

The people of Connecticut are friendly and outgoing despite their reserved demeanor and polite demeanor. Not really 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. The state may not be the most culturally active, but its residents still find ways to come together through things like open mike nights and other community gatherings.

Despite the state of Alaska's infrastructure, the tourism industry is thriving, and locals are eager to meet visitors. Other than Alaska Natives, most of the locals here have been transplants at some point in their lives. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

Montanans will surprise you with their hospitality. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. It's unlikely that anyone will invite you over for tea, but you'll find that these people are friendly. Friendly banter between cities, with an upbeat outlook on visitors of all kinds.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more hospitable and inviting to newcomers. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C and other major cities make it an appealing location to live in

The people of Vermont are known for being warm and welcoming. 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, friendliness, and willingness to assist strangers and neighbors alike. Many people will greet you with a "hi" in the most unlikely of places, such as a Walmart or a parking lot while you wait for a red light. One of the best features of the state is the diversity of its inhabitants.

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.

Our readership seems to agree that Mainers' warmth and the state's low crime rate make it an attractive place to settle down. New Englanders have a reputation for being withdrawn and reserved, but Mainers are friendly and outgoing. The moment you set foot in this location, you'll notice this.

Locals in West Virginia are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, making it one of the best places to visit 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.

People in Iowa are known for being friendly and helpful, as evidenced by the prevalence of "hellos" and "waves" to passers-by. There's a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling fresh produce from the side of the road.

Michiganders fancy themselves a sociable lot, but the cities of Detroit and Ann Arbor in particular can be difficult to get to know. Typical of the Midwest, locals here are friendly, laid-back, and humorous.

With a population density that ranks high among the states, Maryland represents a cross-section of American society. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving, social atmosphere. Bars in Baltimore are great places to meet potential best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of 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 America, so its residents' easygoing demeanor is hardly surprising. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

One of the least populated and least visited states in the United States, and it has nothing to do with the friendly people who live there. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and generosity. The community spirit in this state was highly rated by our readers.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. Even though Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to break into, the people there are nice (I swear). If you're bringing your dog, they'll be welcome here, too, because it's the most pet-friendly state in the country.

Charming and full of Southern sweetness, Mississippi is a wonderful place to visit. Visitors to Mississippi are often taken aback by the warmth of its locals. 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've even had a chance to say "hello," people in Missouri will launch into a detailed account of their entire lives. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

Everyone in Alabama is nice if you're nice to them. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow this simple rule. For no other reason than to be friendly, total strangers will do 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 casually strike up conversations with total strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, even in the biggest cities. Everyone here is the epitome of "Midwestern nice."

Anyone visiting Kentucky will quickly learn that Kentuckians are genuinely good people. Whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, you can expect the same warm welcome from the community's natives. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone consider making the state their permanent home.

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 people here are genuinely warm and helpful. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers gave it high marks. Look lost The average friendly local will probably offer assistance.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. Cultures from all over the world coexist peacefully here. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people What you needed to know is now at your fingertips

For a total of 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. Readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

Our readers agreed with the common belief that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country. The locals are genuinely warm and welcoming, and not in a creepy, prying way. As a state, Idaho truly lives up to its reputation for genuine friendliness and openness to visitors.

Locals in Illinois, located smack dab in the middle of the Midwest, are known for their warmth and hospitality. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. It's also a pretty good state to visit: 19 of the safest cities in America are located in Illinois.

Sweethearts abound in the state of Nebraska. Anywhere you look, you'll find people pitching in to help one another, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. Master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, and 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 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.

The people of Ohio are well-known for their good manners and upbeat outlook on life. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or watering hole to visitors. There are many options for children and families to enjoy themselves.

Due to Hawaii's strong commitment to the tourist industry, the state's guests are lavished with exceptional levels of service and care. Because of its "Aloha Spirit," it has gained worldwide recognition. 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. The locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They treat guests with the same warm hospitality as locals.

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

Colorado is a great state to visit because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals. Guests quickly begin to feel like natives in this secure and family-friendly destination rich in history and tradition. You can feel the warmth 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 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.

Even though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make it a lively and exciting destination. Even in major metropolitan areas, it's not unusual for a complete stranger to offer assistance with tasks like unsticking your car from snow or carrying groceries. Don't bother getting 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 assured its place among the friendliest U.S. states. The locals in its major cities will make you feel like you've come home to a small town when you visit.

The people of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which makes the state a great vacation destination. South Carolina embodies the warm welcome and generous spirit that have come to define the Southern states.

Tennessee has that classic Southern charm going strong, with residents who are buzzing with excitement and eager to show off their city to visitors. When you consider that it also has a thriving music scene, you can see why it's considered one of the friendliest states in the United States.

And the winner is among America's friendliest states Residents of Minnesota are some of the friendliest people in the country. The Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have an unrivaled "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals and numerous visitor-friendly attractions.