the fifty friendliest states in the union

To a visitor, locals (especially those from the countryside) may New York City is a cosmopolitan and chaotic place, but if you give it time, you'll find that its neighborhoods in each of the five boroughs have a sense of community. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

If you're a local, and I stress if, everyone in Arkansas 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 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. Perhaps our readers' preconceived notions of Delaware's amiability stem from the state's (possibly exaggerated) reputation as boring. One of the least welcoming states in the USA, unfortunately.

In general, locals in MA aren't rude to tourists, but their indifference can be wearing. Massachusetts is not exactly one of the friendliest states in America due 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 according to the results of this poll, that's unquestionably the case. Jersey natives are notoriously forthright. However, the (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas for you.

Although Washington state often places highly on lists of environmentally-friendly states, when it comes to its residents, things are quite different. Locals aren't rude, but they do give off a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, leading some to dub the city "Seattle Freeze." Perhaps it's the deluge of rain we've been having

There is a lot of beauty in New Hampshire, and the people there are very proud of their state. It's easy for others to misinterpret such pride as arrogance. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help matters.

Nevada, home to Sin City, is a state of extremes. When compared to more welcoming destinations like Reno, Las Vegas can be a cutthroat place to spend some time. Individual Nevadans may not go out of their way to assist a stranger.

With Miami consistently ranking as one of the unfriendliest cities in the United States, Florida has its work cut out for it. 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 all your life, you probably won't be accepted as a true local. The residents of Rhode Island weren't high on the 'friendly scale' according to Big 7 Travel readers. Though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, this is not the case in larger cities.

Readers of this publication disagree with the widespread belief that Californians are a friendly bunch. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. Most people tend to take it easier in smaller towns.

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.

People from Connecticut are friendly and polite, but they tend to be reserved and quiet. It's not that New Englanders have a reputation for being cold and unfriendly, but they will always hold the door for you and smile at you if 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.

Although Alaska is in the middle of nowhere, the state relies heavily on tourism, so its residents are always happy to see visitors. Except for Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of current locals here can relate to the experience of being a stranger in a strange land. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you, but in either case, they are not rude.

In Montana, you'll find a welcoming community of friendly people. Despite its vastness, the entire state has the feel of a large town. A nice person like this won't invite you over for tea, but they will still treat you well. The townspeople joke around and treat visitors with friendliness.

As the state's population becomes more ethnically and racially diverse, it becomes even more welcoming 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, it's a great place to live.

The people of Vermont are known for their warm and welcoming demeanor, making it simple to strike up conversations with complete strangers. Because tourism is so important to the economy, residents are generally eager to accommodate guests. Vermonters in smaller communities can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, they tend to stick around.

Those who live in North Carolina are known for their politeness, willingness to aid strangers, and warm reception of visitors. The supermarket, the parking lot, and even the intersection at a red light are just some of the places where you might hear someone say "hi." One of the best things about the state is the diversity of its people.

The people of Utah are well-known for their warmth and hospitality, so you will quickly feel at home here. One of the most sociable and lively places to live in the United States, Salt Lake City is also known for its welcoming attitude toward the LGBTQ community.

Our readers seem to agree that Maine is an attractive state to relocate to because of its low crime rate and generally welcoming locals. Mainers, in contrast to their New England counterparts, are friendly and outgoing. When you first step foot in this location, you'll notice this.

Traveling across the United States, you'll find that West Virginians are among the most warm and friendly people you'll meet. A relaxed way of life creates a friendly environment here. There's a tight-knit sense of community in West Virginia because the state is largely isolated from the rest of the country by mountains.

Iowans are known for their friendliness and kindness, 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.

Although Michiganders like to think of themselves as a warm and welcoming people, some cities, like Detroit and Ann Arbor, can be difficult to get to know. Most locals have a healthy dose of good humor and laid-back, polite Midwestern niceness.

Maryland has a large cultural diversity despite being one of the most populous states. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving and friendly atmosphere. Making lifelong friends in a Baltimore bar is simple.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest; its residents are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. Given that Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in America, it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

One of the least populated and least visited states in the United States, and it has nothing to do with the friendly people who live there. Locals in North Dakota are known for their friendliness and willingness to lend a hand without seeking 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). Since it also ranks as the most pet-friendly state in the USA, Fido is more than welcome here, too.

Mississippi is a lovely state full of genuine Southern hospitality. The friendliness of Mississippians often comes as a pleasant surprise to visitors. The natives are extremely friendly, and they will make you feel at home as long as you refrain from bragging about how much better life is "up North."

Before you've even had a chance to say "hello," a Missourian will launch into a lengthy recounting of their life experiences. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

If you treat everyone you meet in Alabama with kindness, they will treat you with kindness in return. Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the country if you follow this simple rule. Just because they want to be nice, strangers will do nice things like hold the door open and 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 strike up conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, even in the biggest cities. One could say that 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 will treat you with kindness. Everybody here is friendly, whether you were born and raised here or are just passing through. One encounter with a typical Kentuckian and you'll want to pack your bags and head to the Bluegrass State right away.

It's not obvious at first glance that cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are warm and welcoming. 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 highly. Look lost Most likely, a friendly local will offer assistance.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. There is a wide variety of people and cultures to experience. And in 2018, two New Mexico cities were named among the Top 20 Retirement Cities for the LGBT community. So there you go.

A ten-person community Population of 3 million, this southern state is a fascinating blend of rural and urban areas, and its residents are known for their warm hospitality. Even in larger cities such as Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. Readers of Big 7 Travel thought Georgia was great.

Readers overwhelmingly agreed that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country. It's true that everyone here is warm and welcoming, and not in a nosy or intrusive way. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Illinois is a state in the center of the United States's Midwest, and its residents are some of the friendliest you'll ever meet. Chicago has surpassed New York City as one of America's top destinations for tourists. It's also a pretty good state to visit: 19 of the safest cities in America are located in Illinois.

You won't find a nicer group of people anywhere in the United States than in Nebraska. 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.

Despite the region's recent history of natural disasters, the locals will do anything to make you feel at home. Louisianans may come from many different backgrounds, but they all contribute to the state's reputation as one of the friendliest and most enjoyable 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 tend to be friendly and welcoming, always happy to recommend their go-to restaurant or watering hole to visitors. Moreover, it's a fantastic destination for families thanks to the abundance of fun things to do here that children will love.

Tourists in Hawaii are the top priority, so the state's reputation for warm hospitality is well-deserved. The "Aloha Spirit" is a hallmark of Hawaii. Everyone you meet in paradise will give you a friendly hello, suggesting that paradise life has a positive effect on the human spirit.

One of the friendliest states in the USA, Oklahoma City deserves its moniker "The Big Friendly." People here are very talkative and will always look out for their own. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Travelers 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.

Traveling to Colorado is a pleasure because of its progressive culture and the fact that its residents are among the friendliest anywhere. It's great for families, there's lots to do, and newcomers will quickly feel at home among the friendly locals and fascinating history. You can feel the friendliness of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

Hoosiers are famously helpful and friendly to visitors, earning the state's nickname of "Hoosier Hospitality." The locals have a positive demeanor and an entertaining sense of humor. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana is so much more than a "fly over" state.

Although Wyoming is generally a calm state, its residents make it a lively and entertaining destination. Even in large cities, it is not unusual for a complete stranger to offer assistance with tasks such as unsticking your car from snow or carrying groceries. Don't bother getting out of the car. The likelihood that it will arrive undamaged is high.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" 'everywhere you go' has undoubtedly contributed to its status as one of the friendliest states in the USA. The locals in its big cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

The warm hospitality of South Carolinians is well-known, and the state is often cited as a top vacation destination. South Carolina exemplifies the warm hospitality and generous spirit for which the South is famous.

Tennessee embodies quintessential Southern hospitality, with friendly locals who are eager to show off their state's best features to visitors. When you factor in the state's thriving music industry, it's easy to see why Texas is widely considered to be one of the friendliest in the United States.

The most welcoming state in the United States is Residents of Minnesota are some of the friendliest people in the country. There's a reason the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the Twin Cities and surrounding areas exude a genuine warmth and friendly welcome to visitors that is hard to find elsewhere.