the fifty friendliest states in the union

At first glance, locals (especially those from 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 as a whole is a vibrant melting pot of cultures. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

As long as you're a local, Arkansas residents tend to be welcoming. 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? It's one of the least welcoming states in the Union, which is a shame.

Massachusetts residents aren't necessarily rude, but their indifference to tourists can be off-putting. Massachusetts isn't exactly one of the friendliest states in America if its residents are known for ignoring each other. Likewise, it takes a considerable amount of time to establish oneself as a permanent resident of Boston rather than a temporary visitor.

An attitude typical of Jersey residents can come across as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case Jersey natives are notoriously forthright. However, at least the (possibly unfriendly) gas station worker will do the pumping for you.

If you're looking at environmental friendliness, the state of Washington may always be near the top of the list. Even though Seattleites don't come across as rude, they do have a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, which has earned the city its nickname, "Seattle freeze." Could be the constant downpours.

New Hampshire is a stunning state, and its residents rightfully take great pride in their home state. A lot of times, though, other people take that pridefulness for arrogance. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals here due to their stubborn nature and the small population.

The state of Nevada, where Sin City is located, is a land of extremes. Las Vegas is a place where "dog eats dog," but neighborly Reno is a better option. As a whole, Nevadans are not particularly willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida certainly has its work cut out for it if Miami is consistently ranked as one of the least welcoming cities in the United States. Orlando's tourist-friendly initiatives are a big boon to the state, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go before its reputation catches up.

The majority of Rhode Islanders were not born and raised there, so anyone who moves there from another state is likely to be treated as an oddity. Readers of Big 7 Travel did not give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendliness scale." There may be more friendliness in smaller communities, but don't expect a warm welcome from the cashier at your local establishment.

While many native Californians may believe that their state is known for its warm and welcoming culture, our readers have a different opinion. When it comes to making visitors feel at home, Los Angeles is no City of Angels. The pace of life is slower in smaller towns.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they're 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.

The people of Connecticut are friendly, if a bit reserved. I wouldn't say that at all Despite their reputation for coldness, New Englanders will always hold the door for you and offer a friendly greeting. 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. In fact, with the exception of Alaskan Natives, the vast majority of current locals here are immigrants who arrived in the area at some point in their lives. 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. People are nice, but you won't be invited to their houses for tea. A friendly atmosphere prevails among the cities, and visitors are warmly welcomed.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting 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 make it a great place to live

Vermonters are known for being warm and welcoming, making it simple to make new friends. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally 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.

Natives of North Carolina are known for their polite demeanor, willingness to aid strangers, and warm reception of guests. 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.

Famously warm and welcoming, Utahns will make you feel right at home. In addition to being one of the most sociable and lively cities in the country, Salt Lake City is also known for its welcoming attitude toward the LGBTQ community.

Our readers agree that Maine is a great place to settle down because of its low crime rate and welcoming community. People from New England tend to have a reputation for being quiet and reserved, but Mainers are known for being friendly and outgoing. This is something you'll notice as soon as you step foot in the door.

West Virginians are among the friendliest and most helpful people you'll encounter anywhere in the United States. Here, people move at a relaxed pace, creating a friendly environment. In West Virginia, the community is tight-knit because the state's mountains serve as a buffer between the state and the rest of the country.

People in Iowa are known for being friendly and helpful to one another, and it's not uncommon to see them greet complete strangers as they pass one another on the street or wave at passing cars. There is a genuine sense of community there, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling fresh produce on the side of the road.

Despite the state's reputation for friendliness, some major cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor can be extremely difficult to connect with. People here have a good sense of humor, are laid back, and are polite in that Midwestern way.

Maryland has a high population density and is a cultural melting pot. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it is a lively and engaging place to spend some time with friends. In a Baltimore bar, you are sure to meet some of your new best friends for life.

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, so it's no surprise that its residents are so warm and friendly. 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 being friendly and helpful, even if they don't get anything in return. An overwhelming majority of you, our readers, gave the state high marks for its friendly locals.

In general, Oregonians are known for their friendliness toward those they have never met before. Granted, it may take some time to earn acceptance into Portland's hipster scene, but I hear they're pretty chill. Your dog is welcome here, too, because it is the most pet-friendly state in the United States.

Mississippi is a beautiful state bursting with traditional Southern hospitality. The friendliness of the locals is often a pleasant surprise for 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 one of the gang.

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

Everything and everyone you meet in Alabama will treat you well if you are friendly. In case you hadn't heard, Alabama is one of the friendliest states in the Union so long as you remember to "Just Say 'Hello.'" 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. The residents of this region are the very embodiment of the term "Midwestern Nice."

You'll find that Kentuckians are a genuinely pleasant bunch. Whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, you can expect the same warm welcome from the community's natives. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make anyone consider making the state their permanent home.

While cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh may not immediately spring to mind when you think of "friendly cities," that is exactly what they are. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. Readers gave it high marks for the amount of assistance they received from total strangers. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. Casual and rich in cultural variety. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people And there you have it

With only 10 people, With a population of over 3 million, this state in the southern United States is a fascinating blend of rural and urban areas, and its residents are known for their warm hospitality. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. One of the Big Seven travel magazines' readers ranked Georgia as "pretty peachy."

It's been said many times, but our readers overwhelmingly agreed: Idahoans are among the friendliest people in the country. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. A visitor to Idaho will find that the state's reputation for friendliness and openness to outsiders is well-deserved.

You can't get more Midwestern than Illinois, and the people there couldn't be friendlier. Chicago is arguably more tourist-friendly than New York City. According to Neighborhood Scout, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in the state of Illinois, making it a good destination for tourists.

People from Nebraska are among the friendliest you'll find 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 while driving, you'll blend in just like a native.

Locals here will do anything to make you feel at home, despite the troubled history of natural disasters in the area. 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.

Ohioans are known for their good manners and friendly demeanor, making the Buckeye State a prime example of the Midwest ideal. The locals are friendly and willing to show visitors their favorite spots for eating and drinking. There are many options for children, making this an ideal destination for families.

Hawaii places a premium on its tourist industry, so visitors can expect to be treated like royalty. 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.

The Big Friendly isn't a nickname for Oklahoma City's capital without good reason; Oklahoma truly is one of the friendliest states in the Union. Folks here are always up for a chat and will do whatever they can to protect their neighborhood. Also, they're very welcoming to outsiders.

Kansas is known for its welcoming residents and visitors alike, so don't be surprised if you strike up a conversation with a complete stranger. A lot of the state's charm comes from the locals' friendliness toward tourists.

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. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

The people of Indiana take great pride in their famous "Hoosier hospitality," in which they consistently go out of their way to help others. The locals have a pleasant demeanor and a good sense of humor. After just one trip, you'll realize that Indiana is so much more than a "fly over" state.

Although 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 offer to help you with something as simple as getting your car unstuck from the snow or carrying your groceries. Don't bother getting out of the car. Hopefully, everything will be fine.

The vivacious Texans and their "Howdys" are a trademark. Its reputation as one of the most welcoming states in the U.S. has been earned through efforts that can be seen "everywhere you go. 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 is one of the reasons the state is so enjoyable to visit. South Carolina has all the warmth and friendliness that the South is famous for.

Tennessee is a great example of classic Southern hospitality, with friendly locals who are always eager to show visitors around. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

To top it all off, the winner of the competition between the friendliest states in America is The people of Minnesota are the friendliest in the country, making the state a clear winner. There is a reason why the state is nicknamed "Minnesota Nice"; the people of the Twin Cities and beyond have an inviting, friendly demeanor that is hard to find elsewhere.