If first impressions count, then tourist boards everywhere will want to take note of new analysis that shows where in the United States visitors can expect the friendliest welcome. Using data gathered by the World Population Review, Newsweek has created a map that provides a snapshot of where tourists and residents can experience warm interactions within highly hospitable communities. Common themes such as community spirit, great hospitality, and everlasting memories can all combine to make a visitor hold fond memories of a state.
More From Newsweek Vault: How to Calculate How Much House You Can Afford. Newsweek has created this map to show which U.S. states are the friendliest. Sitting at the top of the list is Minnesota, at the pinnacle of the mountain, with friendliness ingrained in the culture. Locals are renowned for their legendary "Minnesota Nice" attitude. The combination of polite residents, a sense of community, and scenic landscapes make it a haven for those seeking a friendly atmosphere.
Minnesota State Senator Jim Abeler told Newsweek that the state has a "strong sense of community." He stated, "I see it in my hometown when people pass each other with a friendly wave, when Minnesotans enjoy our beautiful lakes and parks together, and when we are in line for our favorite food on a stick at the best state fair in the country." Abeler emphasized that Minnesota offers everything one could want, making it a beautiful state with tremendous opportunities for families.
Top States for Friendliness According to New Research
Tennessee is famed for its musical heritage and Southern charm, landing at number two on the list of friendliest states. Southern hospitality has built a strong reputation, from the bustling streets of Nashville to the scenic Smoky Mountains. Rounding out the top five are South Carolina, Texas, and Wyoming, where hospitality is a hallmark of local culture. Each of these states showcases unique characteristics that contribute to their welcoming atmospheres.
On the contrary, New York sits at the bottom of the list, but local lawmakers disagree with this ranking. New York State Assembly member Jessica González-Rojas expressed her disagreement, citing countless acts of kindness she has witnessed throughout her life in the state. She emphasizes that New Yorkers are always willing to help others, recommend restaurants, and share their vibrant cultural experiences.
Joining New York in the less desirable half of the list are Arkansas, Delaware, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. In a world where moving to a new state can be stressful, a friendly population can help alleviate that stress, making newcomers feel welcomed and accepted.
The Role of Tipping and Local Attitudes in Friendliness Rankings
The World Population Review also analyzed tipping rates across states, revealing that Delaware is ranked 48th but boasts the highest tipping rate. This data suggests that while tipping rates can provide insight into local attitudes, they do not always correlate with overall friendliness. For instance, New Hampshire ranks 44th but has some of the highest tipping rates, indicating that high tipping does not guarantee a friendly environment.
Conversely, Indiana ranks as the 6th friendliest state and has the second-highest tipping rate, hinting at a possible correlation between friendliness and tipping. However, it's essential to approach these findings with caution, as they are based on social media surveys rather than comprehensive scientific studies.
The rankings were derived from a survey conducted by Big 7 Travel, which asked 2.5 million social media followers to vote on the friendliest states. The results emphasize that while some states may appear less welcoming, there are still plenty of locals eager to provide a warm welcome to visitors. Understanding these dynamics can help travelers choose their destinations wisely.
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