The 50 Friendliest States in the U.S.

In the beginning, locals (especially those living in the upstate) may 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 itself is a melting pot of many cultures. If you must take pictures for Instagram while standing in the street, please do so quickly so as not to impede traffic.

If you happen to be from Arkansas (emphasis on if), locals will treat you with respect. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

Although it only takes 90 minutes to drive across Delaware, the small size of the state doesn't necessarily equate to neighborliness. Can it be that our readers' preconceived notions of Delaware's amiability stem from the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? To make matters worse, it's 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.

There is a risk that New Jerseyans' demeanor will be misunderstood as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be true. The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. While the gas station attendant may not be particularly pleasant, at least they'll pump your gas.

While Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, it has a much more mixed reputation when it comes to its residents. In Seattle, people aren't exactly rude, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe that's given rise to the city's nickname, "the Seattle freeze." Perhaps it's all the wet weather

The people of New Hampshire are extremely patriotic and proud of their state, and the state itself is stunning. But that pride is often misunderstood as arrogance by those on the outside. It can be challenging to make friends among the locals here, what with their stubborn natures and the small population.

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 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.

People who aren't native Rhode Islanders have a difficult time accepting those who moved there as friends or family. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendly scale." Neighborhood cashiers are friendlier in smaller towns, but in general, don't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

Even though many people in California take pride in their reputation as being welcoming, our readers tend to disagree. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. It's easier to take it easy in a smaller city.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as gregarious as those in the South, but they're usually chill about most things. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. To a lesser extent It's true that New Englanders have a rep for being cold and unfriendly, but you'll still be greeted warmly and offered assistance getting through doorways. Even though it isn't the most culturally active state, its residents are able to come 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. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

I think you'll find that Montanans are some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. Despite its vast size, the entire state has the feel of a single large town. Despite how nice they are, you won't be invited over for tea. There is friendly competition between the cities, with a warm welcome extended to visitors.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more hospitable and warm. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of outsiders. C it's a great place to live because of its proximity to other cities.

The people of Vermont are known for being warm and welcoming, making it simple to meet new friends. Travelers can expect the locals to go above and beyond to accommodate them. Those in small towns in Vermont may 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 welcome to 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.

You'll quickly feel at home in Utah thanks to the state's welcoming population. 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 readers seem to agree that Maine is a good place to call home because of its low crime rate and welcoming population. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are known to be friendly and outgoing. As soon as you enter, you'll notice this.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. Relaxed lifestyle that fosters 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. A genuine sense of community permeates the area, as evidenced by the friendly service you'll receive from the cashiers and the eagerness of the roadside farmers to share their wares with you.

Although Michiganders like to think of themselves as a warm and welcoming people, some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be difficult to get to know. People here have a good sense of humor, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

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 and friendly atmosphere. If you go to a bar in Baltimore, you're bound to meet some people you become fast friends with.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest; its residents are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. People in Green Bay are exceptionally pleasant to be around because it is one of the happiest cities in America. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

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. The state received high marks from our readers for its friendly atmosphere.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. Although Portland's hipster culture may be difficult to enter, the people there are nice (I swear). That dog of yours will be just as welcome here as it is the most pet-friendly state in the USA.

Mississippi is a lovely state full of genuine Southern hospitality. Most visitors to Mississippi are pleasantly surprised by the state's warm and welcoming culture. The natives 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."

People in Missouri are notoriously bad at keeping secrets, and they will spill the beans before you've even had a chance to say hello. Because there is no pretense here, they are genuine in their friendliness and genuine interest in the perspectives of total strangers.

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 just follow that one simple rule. 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.

There are many progressive, forward-thinking communities in South Dakota that are home to enthusiastic and 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 very embodiment of the term "Midwestern Nice."

No matter what you're going through, people in Kentucky will treat you with kindness. People here are friendly whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone consider making the state their permanent home.

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. When it comes to assistance from total strangers, our readers gave it high marks. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

New Mexicans, in general, are known for their warmth and hospitality. It has a chill vibe and a wide variety of ethnic and cultural influences. Moreover, two New Mexico cities were among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in 2018. So there you go.

Only 10 people live there, so it's pretty empty. 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 major metropolitan areas like Atlanta, forming meaningful relationships with locals is a breeze. Those who read the Big 7 Travel report on Georgia agreed that it was a pretty sweet state.

Numerous readers agreed with the widespread belief that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country. Here, you'll find genuine friendliness rather than intrusive curiosity from the local populace. When it comes to welcoming visitors, Idaho more than lives up to its reputation.

Illinois is a state in the center of the United States's Midwest, and its residents are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet. Chicago is arguably more welcoming to tourists than New York City. It's also a pretty good state to visit: 19 of the safest cities in America are located in Illinois.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. People are always pitching in to help one another, and there's a real sense of community. If you can master the 'one finger' wave at the wheel, you'll blend in 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.

To see true Midwestern manners and friendliness in action, look no further than Ohio. The natives are friendly and willing to give visitors recommendations on where to eat and drink. It's also fantastic for families, as there are many things to do here that are geared toward younger visitors.

Hawaii places a premium on its tourist industry, so visitors are treated like royalty. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. 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. People here are very talkative and will always look out for their own. Visitors can expect the same warm reception.

Tourists 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. Because locals are so welcoming to visitors, the state is stunning.

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. Denver or the suburbs, the welcoming atmosphere is the same no matter where you go.

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 excellent sense of humor. Indiana is more than just a "fly over" state; after visiting, you'll always remember it as home.

It's true that Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state overall, but its residents are what really set the mood. 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 bother getting out of the car. Hopefully, 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 big cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

Residents of South Carolina are known for their warm hospitality, which contributes to the state's reputation as a pleasant vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the Southern tradition of warm hospitality and generous spirit.

Tennesseans have that classic Southern hospitality at full throttle, with a positive, upbeat vibe and a desire to show off their city to visitors. When you factor in the state's thriving music industry, it's easy to see why Texas is consistently ranked as one of the friendliest in the United States.

And the winner is, of all the welcoming American states: The people of Minnesota are the friendliest in the country. The Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have an unbeatable "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals and numerous tourist-friendly attractions.