The 50 Friendliest States in the U.S.

At first glance, locals (especially those in 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.

If you're a local in Arkansas, the locals will treat you like family. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

You can drive across the entire state of Delaware in under an hour, but that doesn't make it any more neighborly. Maybe our readers associate Delaware with unfriendliness because of its (mistaken) reputation as boring. A sad reality is that it is one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

While most people in Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, the general apathy they exhibit toward tourists can be wearing. 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. Likewise, it takes a considerable amount of time to establish oneself as a permanent resident of Boston rather than a temporary visitor.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. This survey seems to confirm that to be the case. As a whole, people from New Jersey have a reputation for being blunt and direct. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

The Evergreen State may be near the top of lists of environmentally-friendly states, but its human residents are a different story. This "polite but unfriendly" atmosphere is what gives Seattle its nickname, "the Seattle freeze," even though the locals themselves aren't rude. Perhaps it's all the wet weather

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. But that pride is often misunderstood as arrogance by those on the outside. It's difficult to make friends among the locals, and there aren't that many people living in the area.

Although it's best known for being the home of "Sin City," Nevada is actually a state of striking contrasts. Whereas Las Vegas can be a cutthroat environment, other cities like Reno offer a more relaxed and friendly alternative. On the whole, Nevadans are not particularly 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.

The majority of Rhode Islanders were not born and raised there, so anyone who moves there from another state is likely to be treated as an oddity. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendly scale." Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

People in California like to think of themselves as friendly, but our readers don't agree. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles is no City of Angels. Relaxed lifestyles can be found in smaller towns.

Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are chill enough to make up for it. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. To be more precise, it's a pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. However, that's not the case 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 come 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 of the locals, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you, but in either case they are not rude.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their hospitality. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a large town. They're pleasant enough to interact with, but you won't be invited to their homes for tea. The townspeople joke around with one another in a friendly manner, and they welcome visitors.

The state of Virginia has always been known for its warm and welcoming culture, but the state's increasing diversity is only making that reputation stronger. Washington, D.C. is a cultural hub, 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 their warm and welcoming demeanor, making it simple to strike up conversations with complete strangers. 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. Though 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.

Folks who live in North Carolina are known for their polite demeanor, willingness to aid strangers, and warm reception of guests. Greetings are commonplace in public places like Walmart and parking lots, or even while waiting at a red light. One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it hosts.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. Being one of the most LGBTQ-friendly major cities in the United States, Salt Lake City is a wonderful place to live if you're looking for a lively and social environment.

A large majority of our readers agree that Maine is a great place to call home due to its low crime rate and welcoming community. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are friendly and outgoing. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. Those who choose to live here enjoy a relaxed tempo of life that fosters a friendly environment. There is a tight-knit sense of community in West Virginia because the state is essentially walled off from the rest of the country by mountains.

People in Iowa are known for being friendly and helpful, as evidenced by the frequent use of "howdy" and "how are you" in everyday interactions with strangers. There's a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling fresh produce from the side of the road.

While most Michiganders like to think of themselves as hospitable, those in Detroit and Ann Arbor in particular can be tough. People in this area tend to be humorous, laid-back, and polite in that classic Midwestern way.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. Given its welcoming nature toward strangers, it is a lively and engaging place to spend some time with friends and strangers alike. When you go out to a bar in Baltimore, you're guaranteed to meet some interesting people.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest, with friendly, polite citizens who value their communities and enjoy life. Since Green Bay is located in one of the happiest regions of the United States, its residents are naturally friendly and outgoing. What role, if any, could the Packers play in this?

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 generosity. A large majority of you, our readers, gave the state a high score in our polling of community qualities

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. The Portland hipster scene may be difficult to break into, but the people there are nice, I swear. Because it ranks highest in pet-friendliness, your dog is guaranteed to be accepted here.

It's undeniable that Mississippi is a beautiful state, full of all the warmth and hospitality that the South is It's common for visitors to Mississippi to be pleasantly surprised by the state's warm welcome from locals. 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 recounting of his or her life experiences. There's no pretense here; they're genuinely friendly and interested in talking to strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you treat them well. If you obey this simple rule, you'll quickly discover that Alabama is among the friendliest places in the United States. A random act of kindness from a stranger can make your day. People will hold the door open and even help you carry your groceries to your car.

There are many progressive, progressive communities full of engaged and friendly people in South Dakota. It is common practice for people to strike up conversations with complete strangers, even in the busiest urban areas, and discuss anything from the weather to the latest game. 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 Kentuckians will treat you with kindness. The friendly locals don't care if you were born and raised here or if you're just passing through. There's something about a Kentuckian's warmth and hospitality that makes you want to settle down here right away.

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.

Almost everywhere you go in New Mexico, you'll find friendly locals. The atmosphere is chill and the range of cultures represented is impressive. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people That sums it up

With only ten 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. The citizens of Georgia were deemed to be quite delightful by Big 7 Travel readers.

Idahoans are known nationwide as some of the friendliest people in the United States, and our readers agree. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. As a state, Idaho truly lives up to its reputation for genuine friendliness and openness to visitors.

Located in the middle of the United States, Illinois is home to welcoming people. In comparison to New York City, Chicago is widely regarded as one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the United States. It’s also a decent state for visitors: according to Neighborhood Scout, Illinois has 19 of the safest cities in the country

Most Nebraskans are among the friendliest people you'll meet in the United States. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help each other, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. Practice waving with one finger while driving, and you'll soon feel like a native.

Despite the recent natural disasters, the locals here will do anything to make you feel at home. Despite its ethnic diversity, Louisiana is a great place to live because of its welcoming and warm people.

It's hard to find a better example of Midwestern politeness and genuine friendliness than the people of Ohio. Many locals are more than happy to show visitors around their favorite restaurant or bar. The abundance of fun things to do here with children make it a fantastic destination for families.

As a state with a strong focus on tourism, Hawaii provides excellent service to its guests. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet in paradise will greet you with a friendly smile, so clearly paradise has a healing effect on the human psyche.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in America, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," has earned that moniker for good reason. The locals are always up for a chat and will do anything they can to protect their own. They treat visitors with the same warmth and hospitality as locals.

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. Beautiful scenery and welcoming locals make this state a must-see.

There are some of the friendliest people in the world living in Colorado, adding to the state's already pleasant atmosphere of progressiveness. It's great for families, there's a ton to do culturally, and tourists quickly feel at home here. Feeling welcome here is something you'll notice right away, whether you're in Denver or the suburbs.

The people of Indiana take great pride in their legendary "Hoosier hospitality," in which they routinely go out of their way to help strangers. Those who live in this area have a positive demeanor and a great sense of humor. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana is so much more than a "fly over" state.

Even though Wyoming is a relatively calm state, its residents make visiting here a blast. Even in large cities, it is not unusual for a stranger to offer assistance with tasks such as unsticking your car from snow or carrying groceries. Put the keys in the ignition and drive away. Hopefully, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their "Howdys" are a trademark. 'everywhere you go' has undoubtedly contributed to its status as one of the friendliest states in the USA. Locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

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.

Classical Southern hospitality is alive and well in Tennessee, where the people are friendly and excited to show off their hometown. When you factor in the state's thriving music industry, it's easy to see why it's widely considered to be one of the friendliest in the United States.

And the winner is, of all the welcoming American states: Topping the list is Minnesota, whose residents stand out for their warmth and hospitality. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the Twin Cities and surrounding areas have an inviting, friendly vibe that's hard to find elsewhere.