The 50 Friendliest States in the USA

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. Just don't linger in the street or impede traffic while snapping photos for Instagram.

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

Although the state of Delaware is relatively compact (it takes only about 90 minutes to drive from one end to the other), its size doesn't 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? In a sad twist of fate, 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 is not exactly one of the friendliest states in America due to its residents' tendency to ignore them. Additionally, it takes a considerable amount of time to establish oneself as a long-term resident of Boston rather than a temporary outsider.

It's easy to mistake the Jersey way of life for outright rudeness. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case. People from the Garden State have a reputation for being bold and forthright. The (likely) unfriendly station attendant, however, will pump your gas for you.

Washington state may be near the top of lists of environmentally-friendly states, but that doesn't mean its residents are. Seattleites aren't outright unfriendly, but they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe. Perhaps it's all the wet weather

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. As a rural area with a stubborn local population, this can be a challenge.

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. Most people in Nevada won't go out of their way to help a complete stranger.

When you consider that Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least welcoming cities in the United States, you can see that Florida has its work cut out for it. While Orlando and its tourist-friendly initiatives are doing a lot to boost the state's reputation, 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. According to Big 7 readers, Rhode Islanders aren't particularly hospitable. Though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, this is not the case in larger cities.

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 isn't exactly the City of Angels. Relaxed lifestyles can be found in smaller towns.

Although the locals in Arizona lack the Southerners' blatant friendliness, they are usually relaxed enough to not be a major distraction. Expect to have a conversation with a complete stranger while waiting in line, but don't count on anyone breaking out in a full-blown grin. In other words, it's a pleasant lack of concern for other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. Not really In spite of the region's reputation for coldness, you can count on a friendly greeting and a helping hand wherever you go. Although it's not the most culturally active state, its residents find common ground at open mike nights and other community gatherings.

Despite the state's remote location, Alaska relies heavily on the tourism industry; consequently, locals are always happy to meet new visitors. Most people in this area, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived here at some point. Or they'll simply ignore you, which isn't rude.

You won't expect to find such friendly and welcoming people in Montana, but that's exactly what you'll find. Despite its large size, the entire state has the feel of a 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.

To Virginia's already warm and inviting vibe, the state's increasing diversity is sure to appeal. Despite the city's reputation for being conservative and wary of outsiders, Washington, D.C., is a vibrant cultural hub. C and other major cities, it's a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place to make new friends. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. Small-town Vermonters 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. You can hear a "hi" in the most unexpected places, such as the grocery store, the parking lot, or even while waiting at a red light. A notable aspect of the state is the diversity of its inhabitants.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. Aside from being one of the most sociable and lively cities in the country, Salt Lake City also has a reputation for being extremely welcoming to the LGBTQ community.

Our readership seems to agree that Mainers' warmth and the state's low crime rate make it an attractive place to settle down. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are friendly and outgoing. As soon as you enter, you'll notice this.

Some of the warmest and most friendly people you'll encounter in your travels across the United States will be West Virginians. The relaxed tempo of life here creates a friendly environment. The state of West Virginia is largely isolated from the rest of the country by its mountainous terrain, which has fostered a strong sense of community there.

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 is a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road who are more than happy to tell you all about their delicious produce.

The people of Michigan like to think of themselves as a welcoming and sociable bunch, but some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be difficult to get to know. The locals have a great sense of humor, are laid back, and are incredibly polite for being from the Midwest.

The cultural landscape in Maryland is as varied as the state's population. Having no barriers to entry, it is a lively and social place to spend some time with friends or meet new people. In a Baltimore bar, you are sure to meet some of your new best friends for life.

The people of Wisconsin are the shining star of the Midwest; they are polite, connected, and joyful. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in America, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and welcoming. Is there a chance that it's related to the Packers?

This may be one of the least-visited and least-populated states in the United States, but that has nothing to do with its wonderful residents. People from North Dakota are friendly and helpful, and they don't expect anything in return. The community spirit in the state was highly rated by our readers.

Oregonians have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming to visitors. Portland's hipster scene may be difficult to break into, but the people there are nice, I swear. Having the highest percentage of pet-friendly households in the United States, your dog is guaranteed a warm welcome here.

Typical of the South, Mississippi exudes a warm and welcoming vibe. The friendliness of the locals is often a pleasant surprise for visitors to Mississippi. 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 resident of Missouri will launch into a lengthy account of his or her life. They are genuine in their friendliness, and they show genuine interest in the perspectives of total strangers.

Everything and everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you are friendly. If you follow this simple guideline, you'll quickly discover that Alabama is among the friendliest states in the Union. People you don't know will go out of their way to help you, such as holding the door open or carrying 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 total strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, even in the biggest cities. Everyone here is the epitome of "Midwestern nice."

Kentucky residents are generally friendly and helpful. No matter if you're a lifelong resident or just visiting, the locals will make you feel welcome. 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. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it very highly. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

In most of New Mexico's towns, you'll find hospitable locals. It's chill and full of different cultures. Additionally, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people So, there you have it.

Ten people strong. With a population of over 3 million, 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. It seems that Big 7 travelers enjoyed their time in Georgia.

People from all over the country will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest you'll meet, and our readers agree. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a creepy, prying sort of way. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Illinois, located in the center of the Midwest, is home to incredibly welcoming locals. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. Also, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

Sweethearts abound in the state of Nebraska. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help each other out, creating a strong sense of community. Once you master the "one finger" wave while behind the wheel, you'll feel like a true native.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. Louisiana is home to people of many different cultures, but they all share the trait of making their state one of the most welcoming and enjoyable in the United States.

Ohioans are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine enthusiasm for life in the Midwest. The locals have an open mind and are happy to recommend their favorite restaurant or bar to visitors. 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. 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 the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. The locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. Their hospitality extends 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 warmth and friendliness of the locals to tourists are what truly set this state apart.

Colorado is a great state to visit because of its progressive culture and welcoming locals. Tourists quickly begin to feel like natives in this secure and culturally rich destination. You can feel the friendliness of Colorado right away, whether you're in the city of Denver or out in the country.

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 disposition 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 tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. 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. You can rest assured that it will arrive in one piece.

Exuberant Texans, complete with "Howdy"s, are known for their friendliness. The warm welcomes you receive "everywhere you go" have undoubtedly helped make this state one of the friendliest in the United States. The 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.

Tennessee is bursting with that quintessential Southern hospitality, and its citizens are energized and excited to show off their hometown to visitors. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

The most welcoming state in the United States is People in Minnesota are known for being some of the friendliest in the country. Minnesota has earned the nickname "Minnesota Nice" for good reason: the state's major cities and surrounding areas exude a warm, welcoming vibe that is hard to find elsewhere.