the fifty friendliest states in the union

At first glance, locals (especially those from the countryside) could 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.

If you happen to be from Arkansas (emphasis on if), locals will treat you with respect. While this is great news for the state of Arkansas and its friendly locals, it may leave out-of-towners feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome.

It's true that Delaware is a relatively small state, and that it only takes about 90 minutes to drive across the entire state. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? This is one of the least welcoming states in the Union, unfortunately.

People in MA aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference to tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts is not exactly one of the friendliest states in America due to its residents' tendency to ignore them. Additionally, it takes a considerable amount of time to establish oneself as a long-term resident of Boston rather than a temporary outsider.

New Jerseyans' demeanor is sometimes misunderstood as rudeness. Based on the results of this poll, it appears that is the case. When it comes to expressing themselves, New Jersey residents tend to be more forthright than those in other states. Although the (likely) unfriendly station attendant will pump your gas, at least it's convenient!

While Washington state often places highly in lists of environmentally-friendly states, it has a much more mixed reputation when it comes to its residents. There is a "polite but unfriendly" vibe among locals, hence the nickname "Seattle freeze," though nobody in the city would ever intentionally be rude. A lot of rain may be to blame.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents are justifiably proud of their heritage and their home. However, this sense of pride is sometimes misinterpreted as arrogance by those from other cultures. To make matters more difficult, the locals here are notoriously unfriendly, and the area suffers from low population density and a largely rural demographic.

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. Most people in Nevada won't go out of their way to help 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 still has a ways to go.

To put it bluntly, if you weren't raised in Rhode Island, you probably always will be an outsider here. Readers of Big 7 Travel didn't give Rhode Islanders high marks on the "friendliness scale." Even though local cashiers are more likely to smile in smaller communities, you shouldn't expect a warm welcome anywhere you go.

Readers of this publication disagree with the widespread belief that Californians are particularly friendly. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles isn't exactly the City of Angels. It's easier to take it easy in a smaller city.

In Arizona, you won't find the same kind of blatant friendliness you might in the South, but people are generally chill enough. 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. No, not really People in New England may have a reputation for being cold, but they will still open doors for you and greet you warmly. Despite the state's lack of cultural vitality, residents still manage to pull together for occasional 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. Most people in this area, with the exception of Alaska Natives, are immigrants who arrived here 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. In general, the towns have a good time with each other and have welcoming attitudes toward visitors.

The Commonwealth of Virginia is becoming increasingly diverse, which has a positive effect on the state's warm and inviting culture. Washington, D.C., is a cultural mecca, but some might say that it's too traditional and too wary of strangers. C and other major cities, it's a great place to live.

Vermonters are a welcoming and sociable bunch, so it's not hard to strike up conversations and make new friends here. Since tourism is so important, people here are typically happy to go out of their way to assist guests. Vermonters in smaller communities can be slow to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

In my experience, natives of North Carolina are polite, helpful, and welcoming to anyone. Anyone can be approached with a "hi" in almost any setting, be it a Walmart, a parking lot, or even a red light. Highlighting the state's diversity is the fact that its residents hail from every region of the United States.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right 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. Upon your arrival, you'll notice this right away.

It's likely that you'll meet some of the friendliest people in the United States in West Virginia. In this area, life moves at a more relaxed tempo, creating 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.

People in Iowa are known for being friendly and helpful, as evidenced by the prevalence of "hellos" and "waves" to passers-by. There's a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and roadside farmers who are happy to chat about their delicious wares.

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. Most locals have a healthy dose of good humor and laid-back, polite Midwestern niceness.

The population of Maryland is one of the highest in the country, and the state is also culturally diverse. It welcomes strangers, making it a lively and social place to spend time. The local bar scene in Baltimore is fantastic for meeting potential best friends.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest; its citizens are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. As one of the United States' happiest cities, Green Bay's residents are naturally friendly. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

One of the least populous and least visited states in the USA, and it 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 seeking anything in return. The state received high marks from our readers for its friendly atmosphere.

It's common knowledge that Oregonians are exceptionally friendly to total strangers. It may take some time to earn acceptance into Portland's hipster scene, but I promise it's worth it. Your dog is welcome here, too, because it is the most pet-friendly state in the country.

Mississippi is an endearing state full of homey touches typical of the South. When people from other places visit Mississippi, they are often pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of the locals. 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.

The people of Missouri are notoriously bad at keeping secrets. They're genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

People in Alabama are known for their friendliness, so make an effort to be one of them. If you obey this simple rule, you'll quickly discover that Alabama is among the friendliest places in the United States. 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 towns in South Dakota populated by engaged and welcoming locals. 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 who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are friendly. Friendly locals will greet you with open arms whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make you pack your bags and move here tomorrow.

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. When asked how helpful random people are, our readers ranked it highly. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. Relaxed and rich in cultural variety. In addition, two New Mexico cities ranked among the top 20 most LGBT-friendly retirement destinations in 2018. So there you go.

The town has a total of 10 residents. 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 here is simple. Those who read the Big 7 Travel report on Georgia thought it was wonderful.

Our readers agreed with the common belief that Idahoans are among the friendliest in the country. This place has genuinely nice people, and not in a creepy, intrusive way. The people of Idaho are as friendly and welcoming as they are famously depicted to be.

The people of Illinois, located smack dab in the middle of the Midwest, are known for their warmth and hospitality. As a top tourist destination in the United States, Chicago rivals New York City in popularity. Also, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

When it comes to Americans, you won't find a nicer bunch than those who live in Nebraska. A sense of community characterized by people helping each other out can be found virtually anywhere you look. Practice waving with one finger while driving, and you'll soon feel like a native.

Though it 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 the state's reputation as one of the friendliest and most enjoyable places to live in the United States.

Ohioans are known for their gracious demeanor and genuine enthusiasm for life. A local's willingness to welcome visitors and tell them about his or her favorite restaurant or bar is a sure sign of a welcoming community. There are many options for children, making this an ideal destination for families.

Because tourism is Hawaii's main industry, visitors can expect exceptional service. The "Aloha Spirit" is a trademark of Hawaii. Everyone you meet in paradise will greet you with a friendly smile, suggesting that there is some psychological benefit to living in this location.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," has earned its moniker for good reason. The locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Tourists 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 warmth and friendliness of the locals to tourists is what makes their state so special.

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 things to do, and will have you feeling more at home in no time. No matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere, the warmth of this place will greet you right away.

Hoosiers are known for their generous nature and "Hoosier hospitality," the state's unique brand of "hospitality." The locals have a positive disposition and a great sense of humor. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana is so much more than a "fly over" state.

The people of Wyoming are what really make this state exciting, even if it is a relatively quiet place. Even in the largest of cities, it is not unusual for a complete stranger to offer to help you with something as simple as getting your car unstuck from the snow or carrying your groceries. You should just leave the car unlocked. There is a good chance that it will arrive undamaged.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" I think it's safe to say that its reputation as one of the friendliest states in the United States has been solidified by the fact that it seems to 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 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, with friendly, outgoing locals who are always excited to show off their state to visitors. Adding in the vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of the most welcoming states 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. 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.