the fifty friendliest states in the union

At first, locals (especially upstate) might come across as a little brusque. 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 by taking Instagram photos too slowly.

To reiterate, if you're from Arkansas, you'll be treated like a local there. Even though Arkansans pride themselves on being friendly neighbors, this can make tourists feel like outsiders who don't belong.

You can drive across the entire state of Delaware in under an hour, but that doesn't make it any more neighborly. Is it that our readers' preconceptions of Delaware's amiability stem from the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as dull? Sadly, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

Although most people in Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, the general apathy they exhibit toward tourists can be wearing. Massachusetts isn't going to be on anyone's list of the friendliest states in America if its residents have a tendency to ignore them. A lot of time and effort is required to earn the respect of locals and to be considered a "real" Bostonian rather than a "fly-in."

The Jersey way of life can come off as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be true. The people of New Jersey are notoriously outspoken. But at least the (likely unfriendly) gas station worker will fill up your tank.

Washington state may be near the top of lists of environmentally-friendly states, but that doesn't mean its residents are. Though Seattleites don't come across as rude, they do give off a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, earning the city its nickname, "Seattle freeze." The constant precipitation could be to blame, after all.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage. A lot of times, though, other people take that pridefulness for arrogance. Being a rural area with a stubborn local population, this place is not exactly teeming with opportunities to make new friends.

Nevada, where Sin City is located, is a state of extremes. The friendly atmosphere of cities like Reno makes a nice change from the cutthroat atmosphere of Las Vegas. People in Nevada generally aren't very willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

The state of 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.

Your status as an outsider is likely to persist regardless of how long you've lived in Rhode Island if you weren't born and raised there. Rhode Islanders scored low on Big 7 Travel readers' "friendly scale." A local cashier might be friendlier in a smaller town, but in general, don't expect a warm welcome.

We Californians like to think of ourselves as friendly, but our readers beg to differ. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. Less hectic lifestyles can be found in smaller towns.

Locals in Arizona may not have the Southern's trademark warmth, but they 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.

Locals in the Constitution State are courteous, unassuming, and pleasant overall, but they'll go out of their way to make you feel welcome Not really People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they'll still open doors and greet you if you ask. While not the most culturally rich state, its residents are able to come together at open mike nights and other community events.

Despite the state's relative isolation, Alaska relies heavily on tourism; consequently, locals are always happy to meet new visitors. In fact, with the exception of Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of the locals here 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.

The people of Montana 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. The townspeople joke around and welcome visitors with open arms.

As the state's population becomes more ethnically and racially diverse, it becomes even more welcoming and friendly. The nation's capital is a cultural mecca, but some may view it as conservative and wary of outsiders. C and the other major cities make it a great place to live.

Making new friends in Vermont is simple because its residents are warm and welcoming. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. Residents of small Vermont towns may take some time to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, they'll treat them like long-lost friends.

As a whole, people in North Carolina are polite, helpful, and welcoming. People will greet you with a "hi" almost anywhere: the grocery store, the parking lot, the stoplight. The diversity of its residents is one of the state's most notable features.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. Being one of the most LGBTQ-friendly major cities in the United States, Salt Lake City is a wonderful place to live if you're looking for a lively and social environment.

Our readership seems to agree that people are drawn to Maine because of its low crime rate and generally welcoming locals. Mainers, in contrast to their New England contemporaries, are known for being friendly and outgoing. If you come here, you'll notice this right away.

As you travel across the United States, you're sure to meet some interesting people, but West Virginians are among the most hospitable. The relaxed tempo of life here creates 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.

The people of Iowa are known for their friendliness and politeness; it's common to see them greet complete strangers as they pass one another on the street and even wave. There is a genuine sense of community, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

Michiganders fancy themselves a sociable lot, but the cities of Detroit and Ann Arbor in particular can be difficult to get to know. People in this area tend to be humorous, laid-back, and polite in that classic Midwestern way.

When it comes to population density, Maryland ranks high, and the state is also rich in cultural diversity. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving, social atmosphere. One of the best places to meet potential best friends in Baltimore is at a bar.

Wisconsin is a bright spot in the Midwest, with friendly locals who value their community and a positive outlook on life. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

This may be one of the least-visited states in the United States, but that has nothing to do with the quality of its residents. The people of North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without demanding anything in return. Communities in the state received high marks from our readers.

They say Oregonians are some of the friendliest people in the country. It may take some time to earn acceptance into Portland's hipster scene, but I promise it's worth it. Your dog is also 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 stop trying to convince them that life is better "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like you've always been there.

When you meet a Missourian, you can expect to hear their entire life story before you've even said hello. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

Everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you treat them well. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the US if you follow that simple rule. Sometimes, 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.

Across South Dakota, you'll find progressive towns teeming with involved, welcoming residents. Many people, even in the largest cities, 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."

No matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are 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.

Unlike their reputations, cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are actually quite welcoming. The phrase "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. The amount of assistance from total strangers was rated highly by our readers. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. The atmosphere is chill and the range of cultures represented is impressive. More so, two New Mexico cities have been recognized as 2018 Top 20 Cities for LGBT-friendly retirement. Finally, you have it

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. Meeting new people is simple, even in larger cities like Atlanta. Those who read the Big 7 Travel report on Georgia thought it was great.

You'll hear that Idahoans are some of the friendliest in the country, and our readers agree. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. 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. When compared to New York City, Chicago is often regarded as the more welcoming destination for international visitors. As an added bonus, 19 of the safest cities in the United States can be found in Illinois, making it a great state for tourists.

The people of Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find anywhere in the United States. Almost anywhere you look, you'll find people pitching in to help one another, creating a strong sense of community. Acquiring the skill of the "one finger" wave while behind the wheel will make you feel like a native in no time.

Recent natural disasters haven't stopped locals from making visitors feel at home here, however. Despite its ethnic diversity, Louisiana is a great place to live because of its welcoming and warm people.

The good manners and genuine friendliness of Ohioans are legendary throughout the Midwest. Those who live there are friendly and willing to give visitors recommendations on where to eat and drink. Moreover, it's a fantastic destination for families thanks to the abundance of fun things to do here that children will love.

In Hawaii, the hospitality industry is thriving because of the state's dedication to its visitors. 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 aptly 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.

With its progressive culture and welcoming locals, Colorado is a great vacation destination. It's great for families, is very secure, and has so much history and culture that tourists quickly begin to feel at home. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

Locals in Indiana take great pride in their famous "Hoosier hospitality," where they go out of their way to help strangers. The locals have a positive disposition and a great sense of humor. Once you visit Indiana, you'll realize it's so much more than a "fly over" state.

Even though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make it a lively and exciting destination. 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. It's probably going to make it through unscathed.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has helped make it one of the friendliest states in the United States. Even in its major cities, you'll feel like you're in a friendly small town thanks to the friendly locals who live there.

The warm hospitality of South Carolinians is well-known, and this is one of the reasons the state is so popular as a 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. If you factor in the state's thriving music industry, it's easy to see why it's consistently ranked as one of the friendliest in the United States.

Winner of the competition between the friendliest states in the USA Minnesotans are the friendliest in the nation. The Twin Cities and the rest of Minnesota have an unrivaled "Minnesota Nice" vibe thanks to the friendly, down-to-earth locals.