Home / Destinations / The 12 Friendliest Cities in the U.S.
Jump To:
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    As travelers make their way around the world, they gradually learn an important reality that some places are kinder to them than others. Some locals are more friendly than others, and it can be due to a variation of cultural and traditional reasons. It’s not to discourage travel to places whose communities are a bit colder, but it helps to know where you’ll be receiving a warm welcome, and where you won’t.

    Often times friendly cities make ideal travel destinations because their locals are eager to share the culture with outsiders. The locals are proud of their homes, and want visitors to know all about what makes their hometown so fantastic. As a result, travelers get a real insight to the food, art, music, and more of the place they’re exploring.

    In the U.S., friendliness of cities vary throughout the country. Here is a list of the most friendly U.S. cities that will have you obsessing over the new things you have tried alongside your new friends!

    1. Key West, Florida

    Hotel and a Beach Shore in Key West Florida (antoniocuellarphd)

    Key West is so relaxing that the people who live there have no complaints and no reason to be unfriendly. The residents of this calm coastal spot will make friends with anyone next to them, whether it’s on the beach or in the local dive bar, leave your worries and stresses behind to fit in with this crowd.

    2. Telluride, Colorado

    Summer of Telluride Colorado (supermayd)

    Perhaps it’s all of the fresh air and snow-days, Coloradans are about as down-to-earth as it gets. Telluride is a no-drama-zone, and everyone there is looking to meet new and interesting people. Telluride is a cool town distanced from the quickly-growing city of Denver, and people will be accepting of you if you just want to “chill” with them.

    3. Atlanta, Georgia

    Skyscrapers in Atlanta Georgia

    While these Georgians have had a slightly brusque reputation in the past, they actually mean very well. Citizens of Atlanta are brutally honest, but they have your best intention in mind. They demonstrate the traditional Southern hospitality while flaunting their stylish side.

    4. Honolulu, Hawaii 

    Landscape of the beach of Honolulu Hawaii

    Surrounded by paradise, these Hawaiians are eager to share their traditions and cultures. A good way to get friendly with the locals is by learning their ways, such as dance classes or music lessons. If you’re enjoying the palm trees and sandy beaches, you already have plenty in common with the people of Honolulu.

    5. Nashville, Tennessee 

    Nashville Tennessee Downtown Skyline (harrykessell)

    Perhaps it’s the musicians that will truly win you over in Nashville. This city is a music capital in the States, sought out by travelers with good taste for tunes. Make some new connections in the live music venues, which are plentiful across Nashville. You will be met with warm smiles and open arms.

    6. Park City, Utah

    Park City Utah (wikimedia)

    Home to the Sundance Film Festival and world-class skiing, Park City is not at all pretentious about what it has to offer. Instead, Park City people are welcoming and happy to see newcomers joining the scene. These guys are proud of the artistic vibe their city has created, and are friendly about sharing it.

    7. Charleston, South Carolina

    Historic French Quarter of Charleston, South Carolina (GPA Photo Archive)

    Americans in the South have a knack for friendliness, but people in Charleston redefine the standards of hospitality. Charleston citizens take pride in their manners, and welcome others like they would close friends or family. Bonus: They’re dog friendly, too.

    8. Austin, Texas

    Sunset view at 360 Bridge Texas (sbmeaper1)

    Austin, Texas, is home to some real up-and-comers in the creative world. Austin is a city with an innovative and artsy personality without the snobbish-mentality. Visitors will be able to roam the city without any hipster confrontations, and will maybe even leave with some new friends.

    9. Santa Fe, New Mexico

    Dramatic Sunset View at Sata Fe, Mexico (maddybakes)

    If you love arts, crafts, and delicious food, you will get along with this town effortlessly. This artsy place is modest about their art, which is brilliantly colorful with unique Western touches. This awesome city is passionate and happy to share their hobbies with travelers.

    10. Asheville, North Carolina

    Biltmore Estate

    Make it a point to interact with some of the Carolinians on your travels, who are proud of this small but exhilarating city. Asheville has plenty to offer and wants to show it off! It won’t be challenging to find a local to show you the breweries, the outdoor activities, and the dynamic River Arts District.

    11. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

    Fall Foliage in Jackson, Wyoming (tofoli.douglas)

    If you’re looking for a friendly taste of the American West, then Jackson Hole is your destination. Beside stunning mountainous scenery, these folks are quintessentially laid back. They’re happy to show you the ins-and-outs of their town, including some amazing museums and a surprisingly impressive restaurant selection.

    12. New Orleans, Louisiana

    Night Time Lapse in City of New Orleans (Nate Hovee)

    What’s not to love above New Orleans, including its people? The city of New Orleans is the party that everyone is invited to, and the more the better. The party-people of New Orleans are apologetically themselves, especially come late-night, so they are open minded towards all walks of life. Be prepared to let loose a little and have a blast.

    Top Sites to Book Hotels & Accommodations

    Agoda

    Booking.com

    Vrbo

    Trip.com

    Klook

    Hotellook

    Flight Booking

    WayAway

    Trip.com

    Skyscanner

    Aviasales

    CheapOair

    Kiwi

    Best Car Rentals

    Qeeq

    Getrentacar.com

    AutoEuropeUS

    Discovercars

    Economybookings

    Localrent

    Best Airport Transfer​

    Gettransfer

    intui.travel

    Kiwitaxi

    Holidaytaxis

    Best Travel Insurance

    EKTA

    Insubuy

    Visitorscoverage

    Best Booking Sites

    Omio

    Bus Bud

    FlixbusUS

    Trainline

    12Go

    Flight Compensation

    Compensair

    Airhelp

    Food Experience

    Eatwith

    Easyworldtravels participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.