Whether you’re chatting with a local merchant or asking a stranger for directions, it pays to be friendly when you’re traveling. But some states are more likely than others to return the favor. SmartAsset, a finance website, analyzed all 50 states using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ American Time Use Survey to see which were the friendliest, based on factors such as time spent socializing, how residents prioritize community engagement, and their willingness to help others. The results reveal the places that are the most welcoming for travelers — read on to find out which friendly states cracked the top 10.

10. Washington

Washington ranks as the 10th-friendliest state in the country, which might be surprising to some, given that Seattle, its biggest city, has a stereotype for being a little cool — and not just when it comes to the weather. The term “Seattle Freeze” implies that Seattleites can be a bit reserved, but the SmartAsset study reveals that Washington residents are quite friendly on the whole. Not only are they dedicated to socializing and volunteering, but they also care about environmental stewardship, education, and diversity — a combination of factors that creates connections across the Evergreen State.

9. Missouri

Missouri, on the other hand, has a well-known reputation for Midwestern warmth. The Show Me State loves to socialize, with residents spending up to 43.33 minutes a day conversing with others, according to the survey data. If you’re visiting, this means locals are more likely to chat with you in line at the store, at restaurants and coffee shops, or just on the street.

8. North Dakota

“North Dakota nice” is commonly used to describe the state’s welcoming culture, which places significant importance on socializing and volunteering. Since North Dakota’s 805,000 residents are spread across the rural state, there’s a strong emphasis on local communities. The friendly nature of most North Dakota residents may have to do with the state’s agricultural heritage, a lifestyle that encourages neighbors helping neighbors, especially during harsh winters or tough times.

7. Nebraska

Nebraskans like to give back, which ultimately cultivates a sense of friendliness and community statewide. According to AmeriCorps studies, Nebraska ranks third nationally in volunteerism, with residents not only giving back to local organizations but also finding ways to help their community and neighbors on a more informal basis. The SmartAsset ranking backs up this data, suggesting Nebraskans spend an average of 24.1 minutes each day helping others.  

6. Rhode Island

Covering a mere 1,214 square miles, Rhode Island is the smallest state, but there’s a big sense of local pride. The Ocean State is filled with tight-knit communities where just about everybody knows one another. Since it takes only about 45 minutes to drive through the state on I-95 (without traffic, of course), residents can easily prioritize personal connections across Rhode Island. Perhaps this is why Rhode Islanders spend up to 52.15 minutes a day socializing, which contributes to the state’s overall friendliness.

5. Illinois

Midwestern hospitality is alive and well in Illinois, where residents are not only chattier than the rest of the country — they typically socialize for 32.37 minutes a day — but also more supportive. Community engagement is important in Illinois, with residents spending an average of 28.43 minutes a day helping others. It’s not uncommon to find people throughout the state gathering in community, as neighborhood events, cultural festivals, and local celebrations are part of the fabric of daily life — and a big part of the appeal for travelers, too.

4. Oregon

Oregonians may be friendly, but they’re also known for being laid-back. Perhaps this is why Oregon residents spend up to 53.74 minutes a day socializing — many are simply not in a hurry to do anything else. There’s also a strong emphasis on community. Local businesses are supported, sustainability is prioritized, and the outdoors are celebrated. This means you can expect to say “hello” to people on the trail, chat with local farmers at the market, and find plenty of community-minded people wherever you go.

3. Wyoming

Wyoming is the least populous state in the country, and while its 590,000 residents may be spread out, that doesn’t mean they’re not neighborly. Wyoming residents earned the highest score for daily volunteering, averaging 40.6 minutes a day volunteering in their community. In fact, in a separate study, the Cowboy State ranked No. 1 for charitable engagement, with residents finding ways to be active across the community, including in schools, local government, organizations, and events. 

2. Utah

The famously friendly state of Utah earned the No. 2 spot on the SmartAsset ranking of the friendliest states in America in 2026. According to the data, the average Utahan is extremely people-oriented, spending 38.2 minutes a day socializing, 32.5 minutes volunteering, and 21 minutes helping others. The state also has a reputation for high community engagement and volunteerism. Service to the community plays a huge role in the state’s culture, which means you can always expect to find a helping hand when you’re in need in Utah.

1. Montana

With a strong focus on community and the outdoors, Montana ranks as the friendliest state in the country. The Treasure State’s real jewel is its close-knit communities, where everyone knows just about everyone else and neighborly connections run deep. Pursuits such as hiking, fishing, and skiing also create spaces for people to socialize and give back at the same time. Organizations like Eagle Mount and Big Sky Youth Empowerment combine all these values, relying on volunteerism, community engagement, and a love of the outdoors to create a friendlier place to live (and visit).