The 20 Friendliest US States, Ranked

South Dakota opens the top 20 with an index score of 31 out of 50. From the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore to small prairie towns, residents are celebrated for waving to passing drivers, helping stranded travelers, and preserving an authentic neighborly spirit.

Scoring 32 out of 50 on the national friendliness index, the Bluegrass State blends classic Southern manners with midwestern approachability. Whether touring Lexington horse farms or exploring Louisville neighborhoods, visitors are met with easygoing hospitality.

With a friendliness score of 33 out of 50, the Keystone State lives up to Philadelphia's nickname as the City of Brotherly Love. Beyond its historic landmarks, Pennsylvania's towns and rural valleys are known for strong civic pride and down-to-earth neighbors.

Earning 34 out of 50 on the friendliness index, New Mexico combines Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo heritage into a uniquely welcoming culture. From Albuquerque's world-famous Balloon Fiesta to Santa Fe's plazas, locals embrace guests with unhurried warmth.

Georgia scores 35 out of 50 thanks to its unmistakable Southern charm. Strolling past Savannah's historic Forsyth Park fountain or visiting North Georgia mountain towns, travelers quickly notice how readily locals strike up warm, polite conversations.

Ranking #15 with a score of 36 out of 50, the Gem State pairs breathtaking alpine scenery with an open-hearted community culture. Whether in Boise's walkable neighborhoods or along the trails of the Sawtooth Range, locals greet strangers like old friends.

Illinois earns 37 out of 50 on the national friendliness index. Even in bustling Chicago, visitors frequently remark on how eager locals are to offer directions and recommendations, while central and southern Illinois towns exemplify classic heartland kindness.

With an index score of 38 out of 50, Nebraska's state tourism motto - 'Honestly, it's not for everyone' - reflects its humble, self-effacing humor. From Omaha and Lincoln to historic Oregon Trail landmarks like Chimney Rock, Nebraskans are tirelessly helpful.

Scoring 39 out of 50, Louisiana turns hospitality into an everyday celebration. Guided by the Cajun motto 'Laissez les bons temps rouler,' locals from New Orleans' Jackson Square to Lafayette's bayou country welcome guests with music, food, and open arms.

Just outside the top 10 with a score of 40 out of 50, Ohio shines for its unpretentious Midwestern warmth. Along the Ohio River in Cincinnati, across Columbus, and along Lake Erie's shore, Buckeyes are known for high volunteerism and welcoming communities.

Cracking the top 10 with a score of 41 out of 50, Hawaii's friendliness is rooted in the 'Aloha Spirit' - a state law and cultural philosophy of mutual affection, respect, and harmony. Across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, kindness is a way of life.

Scoring 42 out of 50, Oklahoma blends Southern politeness with Western camaraderie. Residents rally around the 'Oklahoma Standard' - a statewide commitment to service, honor, and kindness that shines whether you are visiting Oklahoma City, Tulsa, or Route 66 towns.

With a score of 43 out of 50, the Sunflower State exemplifies heartland hospitality. From the ancient chalk formations of Monument Rocks to vibrant college towns like Lawrence and Manhattan, Kansans are famous for looking out for neighbors and strangers alike.

Colorado claims #7 with a friendliness score of 44 out of 50. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and world-class peaks like the Maroon Bells, Coloradans bring an optimistic, laid-back energy to trailheads, mountain towns, and Front Range neighborhoods.

Earning 45 out of 50, Indiana's signature 'Hoosier Hospitality' is legendary at the Crossroads of America. Centered around Indianapolis's Monument Circle and hundreds of welcoming hometowns, Indiana consistently ranks near the top for neighborly trust.

Opening the top 5 with a score of 46 out of 50, Wyoming proves that wide-open spaces bring people closer together. Beneath the towering peaks of Grand Teton and Yellowstone, residents live by the Cowboy Ethics code - offering a warm handshake and dependable help.

Scoring 47 out of 50, the Lone Star State's very name comes from the Caddo word 'tejas,' meaning friends, and its official state motto is simply 'Friendship.' From the San Antonio River Walk to Hill Country towns, Texans greet visitors with bold, generous warmth.

Taking #3 with a score of 48 out of 50, the Palmetto State is the gold standard for coastal Southern grace. In Charleston - repeatedly voted America's friendliest city - and across Greenville and the Lowcountry, polite conversation and warm smiles are universal.

Runner-up at #2 with 49 out of 50, Tennessee has carried the nickname 'The Volunteer State' for over two centuries. From Nashville's Cumberland Riverfront to the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennesseans combine musical storytelling with an extraordinary spirit of service.

Claiming the #1 spot with a perfect 50 out of 50 score, Minnesota is world-famous for 'Minnesota Nice.' From Lake Superior's Split Rock Lighthouse to the Twin Cities, Minnesotans lead the nation in civic engagement, neighborly generosity, and warm four-season hospitality.