the fifty friendliest states in the union

At first glance, locals (especially those in the countryside) could Although it may be difficult to make friends at first, New York City is a diverse and exciting place to live if you can make it through the initial shock. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

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 the entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes by car, the people living there are hardly neighborly. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? Unfortunately, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

The people of Massachusetts are not necessarily rude, but their general apathy toward visitors can be wearing. To say that Massachusetts has a reputation for being unfriendly is an understatement. Becoming a full-fledged Bostonian, as opposed to a temporary resident, can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come off as extremely impolite. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case People from New Jersey tend to be very forthright and bold. Even if the gas station attendant is rude, at least they'll pump your gas.

Washington state may be near the top of lists of environmentally-friendly states, but that doesn't mean its residents are particularly eco-conscious. It's not that people in Seattle are rude per se, but rather that they give off a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, hence the nickname "Seattle freeze." It could be the precipitation, I suppose.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. Unfortunately, this sense of pride is often misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. Getting along with the locals can be challenging due to their stubbornness, and the area's sparse rural population.

Nevada, home of Sin City, is a state of extremes. It's true that Las Vegas can be a cutthroat environment, but neighborly cities like Reno offer a more pleasant alternative. It's safe to say that most Nevadans wouldn't go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida certainly has its work cut out for it, what with Miami consistently ranking as one of the least hospitable 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. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendly scale." Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

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 is no City of Angels. Most people tend to take it easier in smaller towns.

Arizona lacks the Southern's blatant friendliness, but the locals are generally chill. 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, if a bit reserved. Not really Even though they have a reputation for being cold and distant, New Englanders will still open doors and greet you warmly when you visit. 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.

While Alaska is in the middle of nowhere, its residents are more than happy to open their arms to visitors because the tourism industry is so important to the state's economy. Most of the locals, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

You won't believe how welcoming and kind Montanans are until you've visited. 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. 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. 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.

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. Though the locals of a small Vermont town may take some time to warm up to newcomers, once they do, you'll have friends for life.

North Carolinians, in general, are polite, helpful, and welcoming. It's not uncommon for strangers to greet one another in public places like Walmart, parking lots, and even while waiting for a red light to turn green. 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 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. Although New Englanders as a whole have a reputation for being reserved, Mainers are known for their openness and friendliness. The moment you step foot in this location, you'll notice this.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. Our relaxed way of life creates a friendly environment. West Virginia is a tight-knit community due in large part to the state's natural isolation from the rest of the country.

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.

People in Michigan like to think of themselves as a welcoming and sociable bunch, but some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be tough to get to know. People here have a great sense of humor, are laid back, and are incredibly polite.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. Thanks to its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has become a lively and engaging hangout spot for locals and visitors alike. Making new best friends in a bar in Baltimore is a simple process.

Wisconsin is a bright spot in the Midwest, populated by pleasant people who value good manners, strong communities, and a 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?

You won't find many people living here or tourists passing through, but that has nothing to do with the quality of the people who do call it home. 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). Even Fido is welcome here, as this state is the most pet-friendly in the country.

State of Mississippi has a lot of southern hospitality and appeal. The friendliness of the locals is often cited as a surprise by 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.

The people of Missouri are notoriously bad at keeping secrets. There's no pretense here; they're genuinely friendly and interested in talking to strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you with nothing but friendliness if you maintain a positive disposition. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow that rule of thumb. 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.

Across South Dakota, you'll find progressive towns teeming with involved, 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. Whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, you can expect the same warm welcome from the locals. It's the unique warmth of Kentuckians' hospitality that will have you packing your bags for the Bluegrass State right away.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually are. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason; the locals here are always happy to help. In terms of assistance from total strangers, our readers gave it high marks. Look lost If you ask nicely, a friendly local might even offer assistance.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It has a chill atmosphere and a wide range of cultural influences. In addition, two New Mexico cities ranked among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in 2018. You now have the full picture

With only ten people, With a population of over 3 million people, this state in the southern United States is a fascinating blend of rural and urban areas. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Peach-loving Big 7 travelers rated Georgia a 7.

Many people will tell you that Idahoans are among the friendliest people you'll meet in the United States; our readers agree. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for genuine friendliness and acceptance of strangers.

Placed smack dab in the middle of the Midwest, Illinois is home to welcoming locals. Chicago is arguably more welcoming to tourists than New York City. Illinois is a great tourist destination because it is home to 19 of the safest cities in the United States, as ranked by Neighborhood Scout.

Nebraskans are among the friendliest people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help each other, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. If you can master the "one finger" wave at the wheel, you'll blend in just like a native.

It has had a tumultuous history with natural disasters, but the locals will do anything to make you feel at home. Louisiana is home to a wide variety of cultures, but its residents all share a commitment to making their home state one of the most welcoming and enjoyable places to live in the United States.

One of the best examples of good manners and genuine friendliness in the Midwest can be found in the state of Ohio. The locals are friendly and will gladly recommend their favorite restaurant or bar to visitors. It’s a great place for families too, with lots of kid-centric activities

The hospitality industry in Hawaii is thriving because of the state's strong focus on tourism. 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 are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Visitors from other states may be taken aback by the legendary friendliness of Kansans, so strike up conversations with complete strangers at will. It's a great place to visit because locals are so welcoming to tourists.

Colorado is a great place to visit thanks to its progressive culture and the fact that its residents are among the friendliest people in the world. It's great for families, there's lots to do, and newcomers will quickly feel at home among the friendly locals and fascinating history. The warmth of this place is something you can feel the moment you arrive, whether you're in Denver or the suburbs.

Natives of Indiana take great pride in their famous "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, and you'll have a soft spot for it after your first visit.

Even though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. Even in large cities, it is not uncommon for a stranger to offer assistance with tasks such as unsticking your car from snow or carrying groceries. Do not enter the vehicle until you have returned to retrieve the keys. There is a good chance that everything will be fine.

Locals in Texas are always upbeat and ready with a "Howdy" or "Howdy, neighbor!" Its reputation as one of the most welcoming places in the United States is due in no small part to the fact that people are generally nice everywhere you go. 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.

Locals in Tennessee are full of life and eager to show off their city to visitors, exemplifying the classic Southern hospitality that has made the state famous. 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 nation, making the state a clear winner. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the Twin Cities and surrounding areas exude a genuine friendliness and hospitality that are hard to find elsewhere.