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 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. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

You'll find a warm welcome in Arkansas if you're a local. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it can make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong.

Although the entire state of Delaware can be covered in just 90 minutes of driving time, this does not necessarily make it a welcoming place to its neighbors. Is it that our readers' perception of Delaware as unwelcoming stems from the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? It's one of the least welcoming states in the country, which is a shame.

Massachussetts residents aren't exactly rude, but their general indifference towards visitors can be wearing. Ignoring people isn’t exactly a trait that will put Massachusetts among the friendliest states in America For that matter, it takes some time to earn the respect of longtime Bostonians and become a bona fide resident.

One possible interpretation of the Jersey way of life is as blatant rudeness. This survey seems to confirm that to be the case. New Jersey residents are notoriously forthright. But hey, at least the (probably unfriendly) station attendant will pump your gas for you

While Washington State often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, its reputation among its residents is decidedly mixed. While Seattleites aren't outright rude, they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe (hence the "Seattle freeze"). Perhaps it's all the wet weather

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents rightfully take great pride in their home state. Unfortunately, this sense of pride is often misinterpreted 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.

Nevada, the state where Sin City is located, is a state of extremes. While Las Vegas can be a dog-eats-dog place to spend some time, places such as Reno are more friendly In general, Nevadans are not very willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida has its work cut out for it if Miami is viewed as one of the least friendly 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 it earns its reputation as it should.

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 magazine'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 guests feel at home, Los Angeles is no City of Angels, instead giving off an air of coldness and even hostility. The pace of life is slower in smaller towns.

People in Arizona aren't as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough to ignore that. While waiting in line, you might strike up a conversation with a total stranger, but don't count on any huge grins being exchanged. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

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. 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.

Although Alaska is quite remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, 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 might not respond to you at all if you bother them, but they are not rude if they do.

In Montana, you'll find a welcoming community of friendly people. Despite its large size, the whole state feels more like a large town. You won’t be invited into someone’s home for tea, but they’re nice There is friendly competition between the cities, with a warm welcome extended to visitors.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. The cultural mecca of Washington, D.C., may come across as traditional and wary to outsiders. C positive aspects that are enhanced by its proximity to other major cities

Since Vermonters tend to be open and gregarious, it shouldn't be hard to meet new people and form friendships there. In general, due to the high volume of tourists, the locals here are extremely friendly and willing to go above and beyond to accommodate visitors' needs. 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 guests. Just about anywhere, from Walmart to the parking lot to a stoplight, you'll hear someone say "hi." One of the best things about the state is the diversity of its residents.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. Salt Lake City is one of the most sociable and exciting places to live in the United States, and it also happens to be one of the most accepting cities for the LGBTQ community.

Our readers agree that Maine is a desirable place to settle because of its low crime rate and welcoming population. New Englanders are often thought to be reserved, but Mainers are open and warm As soon as you enter, you'll notice this.

People from West Virginia are among the friendliest and most helpful you'll encounter anywhere in the United States. 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, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

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, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

When it comes to population density, Maryland ranks high, and the state is also rich in cultural diversity. 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 citizens are polite and friendly, and they value their community above all else. People in Green Bay are exceptionally pleasant to be around because it is one of the happiest cities in America. Is there a chance it's connected to the Packers?

This may be one of the least-visited states in the United States, but that has nothing to do with the quality of its residents. 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.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. It may be difficult to break into Portland's hipster scene, but the people there are nice (I swear!). Also, your dog is guaranteed to be accepted here, as this state is ranked highest in the country for pet friendliness.

Mississippi is an endearing state full of homey touches typical of the South. Most visitors to Mississippi are pleasantly surprised by the state's warm and welcoming culture. 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.

People in Missouri will tell you their entire life story before you’ve even had the chance to say ‘hello’ They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

People in Alabama are known for their friendliness, so make an effort to be one of them. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that rule of thumb. Some random person will hold the door open for you, and others will offer to help you carry your groceries out to your car.

South Dakota is home to a wide variety of thriving, progressive communities populated by actively involved, welcoming locals. Even in big cities here, people will openly chat to strangers about everything from the weather to football Everyone here is the epitome of "Midwestern nice."

No matter what you're going through, people in Kentucky will treat you with kindness. No matter if you're a lifelong resident or a visitor, you can expect the same warm welcome from the community members. One encounter with a typical Kentuckian and you'll want to pack your bags and head to the Bluegrass State right away.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually 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 kind local will assist you.

In most of New Mexico's communities, you'll find warm and welcoming locals. Cultures from all over the world coexist peacefully here. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people That sums it up

The town has a total of 10 residents. This southern state has a population of over 3 million, and its residents are known for their warm hospitality. The state is home to both rural and urban areas. Even in bigger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. The citizens of Georgia were viewed favorably by Big 7 Travel readers.

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

Locationally, Illinois is right in the middle of the Midwest, and its people are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. As an added bonus, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state for tourists.

Nebraskans are some of the sweetest people you’ll meet in America Strong community spirit permeates the air, with people of all ages and backgrounds pitching in to help one another. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in just like a native.

Despite its recent tumultuous past with natural disasters, locals go above and beyond to make you feel welcome here 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. People living in an area are generally friendly and willing to recommend their favorite restaurant or bar to visitors. It’s a great place for families too, with lots of kid-centric activities

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. The "Aloha Spirit" is what makes Hawaii famous. Everyone you meet in paradise will greet you with a friendly smile, suggesting that there is some psychological benefit to living in this location.

That they call OKC "The Big Friendly" isn't a coincidence; Oklahoma is, in fact, one of the friendliest states in the USA. Locals 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 taken aback by the famous friendliness of Kansans, so they should be ready to strike up conversations with complete strangers. 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. 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 right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

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

While Wyoming as a whole is relatively tranquil, the people who call it home make it anything but boring. 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 even bother coming back for your keys. Probability says it will arrive unscathed.

People in Texas are very friendly, and they often say "Howdy" to strangers. ’ everywhere you go have surely helped it secure its place among the friendliest states in America The locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

South Carolina is a great place to visit because its people are known for their warm hospitality. The Southern states are well known for their hospitality and kindness and South Carolina has both in spades

The state of Tennessee exudes quintessential Southern hospitality; its citizens are proud to welcome visitors and love to brag about their hometown. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

To top it all off, the winner of the competition between the friendliest states in America is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state wins first place. The Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have an unrivaled "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals.