The 50 Friendliest States In The U.S.

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. Just don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram.

Arkansas is a welcoming place to live if (and this is a big if) you're a native. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

Despite its diminutive size (a full day's drive will take you across the entire state of Delaware), Delaware is not exactly neighborly. Is it the state of Delaware's (possibly undeserved) reputation for dullness that turns off our readers? Unfortunately, it is considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

The people of Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, but their apathy toward tourists can be off-putting. 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, as opposed to a tourist, can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case People from New Jersey have a reputation for being blunt and direct. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will at least pump your gas for you.

While Washington state consistently places high on lists of environmentally-friendly states, it has a much more mixed reputation when it comes to its residents. This "polite but unfriendly" atmosphere is what gives Seattle its nickname, "the Seattle freeze," even though the locals themselves aren't rude. Perhaps the precipitation has played a role.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents rightly take great pride in their home. Of course, when dealing with strangers, that sense of pride can easily be misinterpreted as arrogance. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Nevada, home to "Sin City," is a state of extremes. 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 certainly has its work cut out for it if Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least welcoming cities in the United States. 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. When asked to rate Rhode Islanders on a "friendly scale," Big 7 Travel readers didn't give them high marks. Friendly locals tend to congregate in smaller communities, but don't expect a warm welcome from the cashier at your corner store.

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 isn't exactly the City of Angels. Locals in smaller towns tend to take life a little easier.

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 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. Maybe not as much 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.

The economy in Alaska relies heavily on visitors from elsewhere, so despite the state's relative isolation, locals are always happy to see new faces. Most people in this area, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived here at some point. One of two things will happen; either that, or they will simply ignore you; in either case, they are not rude.

When you visit Montana, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of its residents. 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. 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. 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 open and friendly, making it an ideal place to meet new people. The locals here are very friendly and helpful because of the abundance of tourists. Locals in Vermont's smaller communities may take some time 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 welcome to visitors. People will greet you with a "hi" almost anywhere: the grocery store, the parking lot, the stoplight. One of the best things about the state is how diverse its population is.

The locals in Utah are well-known for their warm hospitality, so you'll quickly feel at ease here. 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. Although New Englanders as a whole have a reputation for being reserved, Mainers are known for their openness and friendliness. As soon as you step foot in this location, you'll notice this.

Traveling across the United States, you'll find that West Virginians are among the most warm and friendly people you'll meet. 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 to one another, and it's not uncommon to see them greet complete strangers as they pass one another on the street or wave at passing cars. There is a genuine sense of community, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

It's a common misconception that all Michiganders are warm and welcoming; in fact, some of the state's largest cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be downright unapproachable. 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. A Baltimore bar is a great place to meet potential new best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest, with its friendly locals and strong sense of community. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. Perhaps the Packers have something to do with it.

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. An overwhelming majority of you, our readers, gave the state high marks for its friendly locals.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly toward total strangers. The Portland hipster scene may be difficult to enter, but 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.

As a Southern state, Mississippi has a lot of charm. The warmth of Mississippians is often a pleasant surprise to visitors. The locals are extremely friendly, and they will make you feel at home as long as you refrain from bragging about how much better life is "up North."

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

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you treat them well. If you follow this simple rule, you'll quickly discover that Alabama is among the most welcoming places in the United States. 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.

Communities across South Dakota are forward-thinking and brimming with active, 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 epitome of the term "Midwestern nice."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are friendly. People here are friendly regardless of whether you were born and raised here or are 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 rated it very highly. Look lost If you ask nicely, a friendly local might even offer assistance.

People in almost every town in New Mexico 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 So there you go.

There are 10 people living here. With a population of over 3 million people, this state in the southern United States is a fascinating blend of rural and urban areas, and its residents are known for their warm hospitality. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

People from all over the country will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest you'll meet, and our readers agree. This place has genuinely nice people, and not in a creepy, intrusive way. And indeed, Idahoans live up to the state's reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Located in the middle of the United States, Illinois is home to welcoming people. If you're looking for a city that welcomes tourists more than New York City, look no further than Chicago. 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. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help each other, creating a strong sense of community. If you can master the 'one finger' wave while driving, you'll blend in like a native.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the city's recent history of natural disasters. Despite its ethnic diversity, Louisiana is home to some of America's friendliest and most welcoming people because of the state's unique culture and welcoming people.

Ohioans are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine enthusiasm for life in the Midwest. When visitors ask where they should go to eat or drink, locals are happy to give recommendations. The abundance of fun things to do here with children make it a fantastic destination for families.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. Those who visit praise its "Aloha Spirit." Everyone you meet in paradise will give you a friendly hello, as if paradise itself could cure your emotional ills.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," has earned that moniker for good reason. People here are always up for a chat and will do whatever they can to protect those within their own community. The hospitality they show locals extends to strangers.

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. A lot of the state's charm comes from the locals' friendliness toward tourists.

Visit Colorado and you'll experience a progressive environment populated by some of the friendliest people on the planet. It's great for families, is relatively risk-free, and has so much history and tradition that tourists quickly begin to feel at home. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

Hoosiers are known far and wide for their generous spirit and warm welcome. The locals are pleasant and humorous. If you think of Indiana as a "fly over" state, think again.

Although Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make it a lively and exciting destination. Even in the largest of cities, it is 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. Most likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdy"s are a trademark. Its reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has undoubtedly helped it rank high among the friendliest states in the United States. You'll feel right at home among its friendly locals in any of its big cities.

The people of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which makes the state a great vacation destination. 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. When you factor in the state's thriving music scene, it's easy to see why it's widely considered to be one of the friendliest in the United States.

And the winning state among those deemed the most welcoming in the United States is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state ranks first. There's a reason why the state's nickname is "Minnesota Nice": the Twin Cities and surrounding areas have an inviting, friendly vibe that's hard to find elsewhere.