The 50 Most Welcome States in the USA

At first glance, locals (especially those in the countryside) 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. Simply don't linger in the street or impede traffic while snapping photos for Instagram.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), you'll find the locals to be extremely welcoming. While this is great for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong.

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. Is it the (possibly unfair) stereotype of Delawareans as unsociable that causes our readers to form such an opinion? One of the least welcoming states in the USA, unfortunately.

The people of Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, but their apathy toward tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts is not known as one of the friendliest states in the country due in large part 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 rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be true. People from New Jersey tend to have bold and forthright characters. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

Even though Washington state consistently performs well on lists of environmentally-friendly states, it fares much worse when it comes to its human inhabitants. 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. In dealings with those from outside the group, however, that pride is sometimes misread as arrogance. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the small population in the countryside doesn't help.

Nevada, home of Sin City, is a state of extremes. Travelers looking for a less cutthroat vacation destination should consider Reno or Salt Lake City instead of Las Vegas. Locals in Nevada, on the whole, 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 has a ways to go.

A person who was not raised in Rhode Island is likely to always be treated as a foreigner there. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the magazine's "friendly scale." There may be more friendliness in smaller communities, but don't expect a warm welcome from the cashier at your local establishment.

Although many native Californians and transplants like to think of themselves as friendly, our readers beg to differ. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. The pace of life is slower in smaller towns.

There's no denying that 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. Kind of a pleasant indifference to other people.

Residents of the state of Connecticut are friendly and polite, but not overly outgoing. It's not that Even though New Englanders have a reputation for being cold and unfriendly, they will still open doors and greet you warmly when you visit. Not the most culturally rich state, but open mike nights and other community gatherings help keep people connected.

Although Alaska is quite remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, so locals are always happy to see visitors. Even the native Alaskans were likely newcomers at some point, so most locals here understand what it's like to start over in a strange place. It's either that or they'll completely ignore you; either way, they're not rude.

Montanans are among the friendliest people you'll ever meet. Although large, 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. Greetings to visitors are met with a warm welcome and friendly banter between cities.

Virginia's growing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. A cultural mecca, Washington, D.C. may come across as traditional and wary to outsiders. C and other major cities, the area is a great place to live.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place to make new friends. The locals here are very friendly and helpful because of the abundance of tourists. Vermonters in smaller communities can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

Citizens of North Carolina are known for their polite demeanor, willingness to aid strangers, and warm welcome of visitors. Anywhere from the supermarket to the parking lot to a stoplight, people will say "hi." One of the best things about the state is the diverse population it contains.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. Salt Lake City is one of the most sociable and exciting places to live in the United States, and it also happens to be one of the most welcoming cities for the LGBTQ community.

Most of our readers agree that Maine is a great place to call home because of its low crime rate and welcoming community. Mainers, in contrast to their New England contemporaries, are known for being friendly and outgoing. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

West Virginians are among the friendliest and most helpful people you'll encounter anywhere in the United States. The relaxed rhythm of life here makes for a friendly environment. Since West Virginia is somewhat sheltered from the rest of the country by its mountainous terrain, the people who live there tend to be very close-knit.

People in Iowa are known for being friendly and helpful, as evidenced by the frequent use of "howdy" and "how are yous" in everyday interactions with strangers. There is a genuine feeling of community, from the friendly service at the register to the eagerness of roadside farmers to discuss the delicious fruits and vegetables they have grown.

Most people in Michigan would like to believe that they are a welcoming and sociable bunch, but 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.

Maryland has a large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states. It welcomes strangers, making it a lively and social place to spend time. 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. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country. Could the Packers be involved in this somehow?

In spite of its great residents, this is one of the least-visited and least-populated states in the United States. 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. The Portland hipster scene may be difficult to enter, but the people there are nice, I swear. Even Fido is welcome here, as this state is the most pet-friendly in the country.

When it comes to Southern hospitality, Mississippi is hard to beat. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. Once you refrain from bragging about how much better life is "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like one of the family.

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. They are genuine in their friendliness, and they show genuine interest in the perspectives of total strangers.

In Alabama, if you're a nice person, everyone will be nice to you. If you follow that simple guideline, you'll soon discover that Alabama is among the friendliest states in the Union. Random people will go out of their way to help you, such as by 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. Here, even in the largest cities, people are comfortable striking up conversations with total strangers about anything from the weather to the latest football game. The residents of this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern Nice."

Regardless of your reason for visiting, you'll find that Kentuckians are consistently friendly. You'll get the same warm reception from natives and visitors alike, whether you're a longtime 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. It received high marks from our readers for the amount of assistance it provided from total strangers. Look lost There is a good chance that a friendly local will assist you.

In most of New Mexico's towns, you'll find hospitable locals. Relaxed and rich in cultural variety. The state of New Mexico is home to two cities that were named among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in the country in 2018. And there you have it.

With only ten people, With a population of over 3 million people, this state in the southern United States is home to a fascinating blend of rural and urban areas. Even in larger cities such as Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Those who read the Big 7 Travel report on Georgia thought it was great.

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 stalkerish manner. True to its reputation, Idaho welcomes visitors with open arms and genuine kindness.

Locationally, Illinois is right in the middle of the Midwest, and its people are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet. When compared to New York City, Chicago is widely regarded as one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the United States. 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 a nicer group of people anywhere in the United States than those who call Nebraska home. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help one another, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. If you can master the "one finger" wave while driving, you'll blend in just like a native.

While 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 what makes the state one of the friendliest and best places to live in the United States.

An ideal representation of good manners and genuine friendliness towards strangers, Ohio is a shining example of the Midwest. People in the area are friendly and will gladly recommend their go-to restaurant or watering hole to visitors. Family-friendly events abound, making this a fantastic destination.

Due to Hawaii's strong commitment to the tourist industry, the state's guests are lavished with exceptional levels of service and care. The "Aloha Spirit" of Hawaii is legendary. No wonder everyone you meet in paradise is so happy to see you—life in this place must be good for the spirit.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. The locals are always up for a chat and will do anything they can to protect those within their own community. They are just as welcoming 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 friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

The welcoming people of Colorado add to the state's progressive vibe, making it a great vacation destination. 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. It doesn't matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere, the warmth of this place will greet you right away.

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

In spite of Wyoming's reputation as a peaceful state, its residents make visiting the state a delight. Even in large cities, it is not uncommon 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. Most likely, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its welcoming culture and "everywhere you go" vibe have undoubtedly earned it a spot among the top amiable U.S. 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 warmth and hospitality, making the state a great vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

In Tennessee, the friendly, outgoing, and helpful locals are in full Southern hospitality mode, eager to welcome and entertain visitors. It's already one of the most welcoming places in America, but when you factor in the exciting music scene, you can see why.

As for the most welcoming state in the Union, it is The people of Minnesota are so warm and welcoming that the state ranks first. There's a reason why the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the people of the Twin Cities and beyond have an inviting, friendly demeanor that's hard to find elsewhere.