The 50 Friendliest States in the USA

At first glance, locals (especially those in the upstate) 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 itself is a melting pot of many cultures. Just don't linger in the street or impede traffic while snapping photos for Instagram.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), the people will treat you well. That may bode well for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, but it may leave out-of-towners feeling awkward and unwelcome.

Even though the state of Delaware is relatively compact and can be traversed in under an hour and a half, its size does not necessarily equate to neighborliness. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? Sadly, it's considered 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 exactly one of the friendliest states in America due to its residents' 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 extremely impolite. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. The gas station attendant may not smile at you, but at least they'll pump your gas.

Although Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, when it comes to its residents, things are quite different. The locals aren't rude, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, hence the name "Seattle freeze." Perhaps it's all the wet weather

The people of New Hampshire are fiercely proud of their state and its beauty. The problem is that this sense of pride is often misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. Because of its stubborn natives and sparse rural population, making friends here can be challenging.

Las Vegas, Nevada is in a state of extremes. However, while Las Vegas can be a cutthroat environment, neighborly cities like Reno offer a more pleasant alternative. 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, as 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.

Some people who aren't native Rhode Islanders just can't shake the feeling that they don't belong there. Those who visited Rhode Island and voted on Big 7 Travel's "friendly scale" gave the locals a low score. Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

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 City of Angels, instead giving off an air of coldness and even hostility. It's easier to take it easy in a smaller city.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're chill enough. People in line will likely start chatting with each other, though you shouldn't count on anyone breaking out in a full-blown smile. A pleasant indifference to other people's feelings.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. A lot less than that Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. Not the most culturally rich state, but open mike nights and other community gatherings help keep people connected.

Even though Alaska is in the middle of nowhere, welcoming tourists is a major source of revenue, 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 may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

The people of Montana will surprise you with their hospitality. Though large, the entire state has the feel of a large town. However, you won't be invited over for tea, they are nice people nonetheless. 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 inviting. Washington, D.C. is a cultural mecca, but some may view the city as conservative and wary of newcomers. C It's a great place to live because of its proximity to other major cities.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place to make new friends. As tourism is a major industry, residents are generally eager to assist guests. Even though it may take some time for the locals in a small Vermont town to warm up to a newcomer, 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. 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 how diverse its population is.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home 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. In contrast to the stereotype of the reserved New Englander, warm and friendly Mainers are a welcome sight. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

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. There is a relaxed tempo of life that makes for 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, from the friendly cashiers to the farmers selling fresh produce on the side of the road.

While most people in the Great Lakes State have a reputation for being warm and welcoming, some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, prove to be surprisingly difficult to navigate. People here have a great sense of humor, are laid back, and are incredibly polite.

The population density of Maryland is high, and the state is also home to a wide range of cultural traditions. Inviting visitors from all over the world makes for a lively and engaging hangout spot. 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 residents are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest places in the United States, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. A connection to the Packers is possible.

One of the least populous and least visited states in the United States, and not because 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. Even though Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to break into, 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.

Mississippi is an endearing state full of homey touches typical of the South. Visitors are often taken aback by the warm hospitality of Mississippians. 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 can even say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy account of their life experiences. They're not pretending to be friendly or interested in what others have to say; they genuinely care about others.

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 follow that rule of thumb. 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 who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are friendly. No matter if you're a lifelong resident or a visitor, you can expect the same warm welcome from the community members. 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" is more than just a slogan; the people who live here are truly friendly. Readers gave it high marks for the amount of assistance they received from total strangers. Look lost There is a good chance that a friendly local will assist you.

In most of New Mexico's communities, you'll find warm and welcoming locals. Casual and rich in cultural variety. And in 2018, two New Mexico cities were named among the Top 20 Retirement Cities for the LGBT community. Now you know

With only ten people, This state in the southern United States is home to 3 million people and features a diverse collection of urban and rural communities, as well as welcoming residents. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Some of the readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

Many people will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest people you'll meet in the United States; our readers agree. There is a genuine friendliness among the locals, and it is not accompanied by intrusive small talk. Idaho's reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors is well-deserved.

Illinois, located in the middle of the United States, is home to incredibly warm and welcoming people. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, Chicago is often ranked above even New York City. Illinois is a great tourist destination because it is home to 19 of the safest cities in America, as ranked by Neighborhood Scout.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. A sense of community characterized by people helping each other out can be found virtually anywhere you look. If you can master the "one finger" wave while driving, you'll blend in just like a native.

Even though the area has had a rough go of it recently due to natural disasters, the locals will do anything they can to make you feel at home. Louisianans may come from many different backgrounds, but they all contribute to the state's reputation as one of the friendliest and most enjoyable in the United States.

The good manners and genuine friendliness of Ohioans are legendary throughout the region. The locals are friendly and willing to show visitors their favorite spots for eating and drinking. There are many options for children, making this an ideal destination for families.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. It has a reputation for having an "Aloha Spirit." All the people you meet in paradise will give you a friendly greeting.

The Big Friendly isn't a nickname for Oklahoma City's capital city for nothing; Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the country. People are friendly and willing to talk to strangers, and they will always look out for their own. They are just as friendly to guests as they are to 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. People in this state have such a warm welcome attitude toward tourists, it makes visiting this state a dream.

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 legendary "Hoosier hospitality," in which they routinely go out of their way to help strangers. The locals have a pleasant demeanor and a good sense of humor. Indiana is more than just a passing state; it will forever hold a special place in your heart after just one visit.

Even though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. It's not unusual to have a complete stranger help you carry your groceries or free your stuck car from the snow in even the largest of cities. Don't even bother getting out of the car. It's probably going to make it out unscathed.

The vivacious Texans and their "Howdys" are a trademark. Its welcoming culture and "everywhere you go" attitude have assured its place among the friendliest U.S. states. Locals in its big cities will make you feel like you've come home to their small towns.

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 industry, it's easy to see why Texas is widely considered to be one of the friendliest in the United States.

The most welcoming state in the United States is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state ranks first. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the people of the Twin Cities and beyond have a genuine warmth and hospitality that's hard to find elsewhere.