There's no single "kindest" state, as it's subjective, but studies often point to Kentucky for overall kindness acts, while Minnesota is famous for "Minnesota Nice," and Hawaii often ranks high for visitor friendliness with its "Aloha Spirit". Other states like Arkansas, South Carolina, and Texas also appear on lists for politeness or welcoming attitudes, depending on the study's focus (e.g., tourism, social interactions).
Researchers say the most polite Americans live in Arkansas, Georgia, and Alabama, while the least polite Americans live in Nevada, New Jersey, and New York. The full study can be found here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media Inc.
WCCO CBS reported, "The study found that Minnesota is the friendliest state." This edged out Texas and other notoriously friendly-seeming states in that region (depending on who you ask).
Most Polite States in America
There were also slight reductions in the number of police employees and the number of firearm suicides as a percentage of total suicides, which suggests a fall in gun ownership. – Maine is the most peaceful state in the U.S. for the 11th year in a row, Louisiana is the least peaceful.
Top 10 Safest States in America
10 Best US States to Live In, According to a New Study
Hawaii is the happiest state in America for the second year in a row. Hawaii landed the top spot on WalletHub's list with an overall score of 65.50. It ranked third for emotional and physical well-being, 16th for work environment and 13th for community and environment.
Hawaii is Americans' favorite state. A new YouGov survey explored which states Americans are most likely to view favorably — and unfavorably. More Americans view Hawaii favorably — and very favorably — than any other state.
According to World Population Review's Friendliest States 2024, New York is the least friendly state in all of America.
For the 24th time, New Hampshire is the freest state among all U.S. states, having scored 8.34 out of 10 in this year's report, which measures government spending, taxation, regulations and labor market restrictions using data from 2023, the most recent year of available comparable data.
States In America Known For Friendly People, According To...
The term “Minnesota nice” lives up to its name. Minnesota residents are known for being extra polite, even during the state's cold, bitter winters. The Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul, are popular tourist destinations known for their residents who go the extra mile to welcome visitors.
West Virginia ranked as the least happy state in the country, with the study finding residents struggle with high rates of depression and inadequate sleep. The Mountain State was followed by Louisiana, Arkansas, Alabama and Alaska.
Vermont ranks as the safest state in America, scoring highly across financial, road, and emergency preparedness metrics.
California was crowned as the most fun state in America, according to WalletHub's 2025 ranking. The Golden State outpaced all others in a nationwide comparison of entertainment, recreation, and nightlife.
10 most beautiful states in US 1. California 2. Montana 3. Alaska 4. Utah 5.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the ten most affordable states to live in 2025:
Top 10 States for A Fresh New Start in 2025: