The 50 Friendliest US States

It's possible that at first, locals (especially those in the countryside) will come off as a 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.

Those who are native to the state will find Arkansas to be a welcoming place. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it can make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong.

Although the entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes by car, the people living there are hardly neighborly. Are our readers predisposed to view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a bore? Tragically, 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. Acceptance as a bona fide Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, is a lengthy process.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. 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 be very friendly, but at least they'll pump your gas for you.

Consistently placing high on lists of environmentally-friendly states, Washington is a different story when it comes to its residents. People in Seattle aren't outright unfriendly, but there is a distinct "polite but unfriendly" vibe that has earned the city the nickname "Seattle freeze." Perhaps it's all the wet weather

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. The problem is that this sense of pride is often misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Nevada, where Sin City is located, 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. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendliness scale." While the local cashier is more likely to smile in a smaller town, this is not the case in larger cities.

It's a common misconception that Californians are a friendly bunch, but our readers beg to differ. Unfortunately, Los Angeles isn't exactly known for its friendliness toward visitors. In fact, the city has a reputation for being uninviting and even rude to those who aren't locals. There is a more relaxed atmosphere in smaller towns.

Although the locals in Arizona lack the Southerners' blatant friendliness, they are usually relaxed enough to not be a major distraction. You can expect to have small talk with strangers while waiting in line, but no big grins. The attitude is one of pleasant indifference to other people.

People from Connecticut are friendly and approachable despite their reserved demeanor and general niceness. I wouldn't say that at all Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. 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.

Residents of Alaska are always happy to meet new people, despite the state's remote location, because tourism is such a vital part of the economy. Most people in this area, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived here at some point. And if they don't, they're not exactly rude if they choose to ignore you.

Montanans will surprise you with their hospitality. 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. Between cities, there is friendly banter, with an upbeat outlook on visitors.

Virginia's growing 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.

It's simple to meet new people and form friendships in Vermont because its residents are warm and welcoming. 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.

Locals in North Carolina are known for their politeness, friendliness, and willingness to help both visitors and fellow citizens. People will greet you with a "hi" almost anywhere: the grocery store, the parking lot, the stoplight. The state's diverse population is one of its most appealing features.

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 U.S. cities for the LGBTQ community.

Many of you have expressed an interest in relocating to Maine, likely drawn by the state's low crime rate and generally welcoming locals. 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. The relaxed tempo of life here creates a friendly environment. A tight-knit sense of community exists in West Virginia because the state is largely isolated from the rest of the country by mountains.

Iowans have a reputation for friendliness and generosity, as evidenced by their frequent use of "howdy" and "how are you" greetings in public. 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 high population density and is a culturally rich and diverse state. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving, social atmosphere. You can find your new best friends in a bar in Baltimore with little effort.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest, with its friendly locals, strong sense of community, and carefree spirit. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country. Was it possibly 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 the quality of its residents. North Dakotans are known for being approachable and helpful, even if they don't get anything in return. The community spirit in this state was highly rated by our readers.

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). This is the most pet-friendly state in the USA, so Fido is more than welcome here.

Mississippi is a lovely state full of genuine Southern hospitality. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. Once you stop bragging about how much better life is "up North" and start treating the locals like family, you will quickly find that you have made many new friends.

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. If you follow that rule, you'll soon discover that Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the Union. People you don't know will go out of their way to help you. They might hold the door open or even 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 casually 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."

You won't have any trouble finding a friendly face in Kentucky. It doesn't matter if you're a lifelong resident or a tourist; the locals will treat you with the same warmth and friendliness. One encounter with a typical Kentuckian and you'll want to pack your bags and head to the Bluegrass State 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; locals truly are friendly. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost You can expect some assistance from a friendly local.

Nearly every town in New Mexico is populated by warm and welcoming 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 So there you go.

Only 10 people live there, so it's pretty empty. 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. It's not hard to make friends, even in larger cities like Atlanta. 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. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Located in the middle of the United States, Illinois is home to welcoming people. 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.

You won't find nicer people anywhere in America than in Nebraska. Almost anywhere you look, you'll find people pitching in to help one another, creating a strong sense of community. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in just like a native.

Locals make an extra effort to make you feel at home despite the city's recent history of natural disasters. Louisianans may come from a wide variety of backgrounds, but they all contribute to what makes the state one of the most welcoming and enjoyable in the United States.

The good manners and genuine friendliness of Ohioans are legendary throughout the Midwest. The natives are friendly and willing to give visitors recommendations on where to eat and drink. There are many options for children, making this an ideal destination for families.

Hawaii places a premium on its tourist industry, so visitors are treated like royalty. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. Everyone you meet in paradise will give you a friendly hello, suggesting that paradise life has a positive effect on the human spirit.

It's not for nothing that Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in America, and that includes the capital city of Oklahoma, which is known as "The Big Friendly." They are always up for a chat and will always look out for 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 prepared to strike up conversations with complete strangers. The warmth of the locals toward tourists is one of the state's greatest attractions.

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 history, and will have you feeling like a native in no time. You'll sense the warmth of this place right away, whether you're in Denver or out in the country.

The people of Indiana take great pride in their legendary "Hoosier hospitality," in which they routinely go out of their way to help strangers. Locals have a positive disposition and a great 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 offer assistance with tasks such as unsticking your car from snow or carrying groceries. Don't even bother getting the keys out of the ignition. Most likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its reputation as one of the most welcoming states in the U.S. has been earned through efforts that can be seen "everywhere you go. Locals in its big 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 the epitome of classic Southern hospitality, and its citizens are always excited to show visitors around. 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 The people of Minnesota are the friendliest in the country. The Twin Cities and surrounding areas have an unbeatable "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals and numerous tourist-friendly attractions.