Studies and surveys often point to New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Delaware as among the least friendly states, though findings vary by the specific study's methodology (e.g., customer reviews, landlord-tenant laws) and can change yearly, with some recent reports also mentioning New York as least friendly based on customer interactions. However, it's important to remember these are generalizations, as individual experiences differ greatly within any state, and friendliness is subjective.
These states are America's worst for quality of life in 2025:
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).
Several states have less than 1,000,000 people, and Wyoming holds the title of the least-populated state, with fewer than 600,000. How do the other states rank?
Drumroll, please… the wonderful South Australia has been named the most welcoming region on Earth! Based on over 360 million verified customer reviews, this accolade cements South Australia's reputation as a destination of unparalleled hospitality and warmth.
San Diego, California
Sun-soaked beaches, friendly locals, and a vibrant cultural scene make San Diego one of the friendliest cities in the US. It's no surprise that travelers are drawn to this coastal gem for its laid-back vibe and warm hospitality.
Cantril ladder score
The United States ranked 24th happiest in the world (down from 23rd in 2024) and Australia ranked 11th (down from 10th in 2024). The rankings are based on the Cantril Ladder scores from the annual Gallup World Poll.
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.
Tennessee has the lowest score in CNBC's quality of life metric, dubbing it the worst state to live in.
The least memorable state in the U.S. is Missouri. That's according to quiz site Sporcle's U.S. States Quiz. Players have attempted to name all 50 states more than 35 million times, and Missouri is the state with the lowest percentage of people who guessed correctly.
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.
Leading the way for the most polite people is Arkansas. Residents of the state earned a near-perfect score of 99.3 out of 100, as nearly 3 in 4 Arkansas residents say they find it very important to hold the door for others.
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.
Texas ranked 48th, making it the 3rd least safe state between Florida and Mississippi. This was the second time WalletHub gave the Lone Star State this ranking. Louisiana was ranked the least safe, while Vermont was named the safest.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the ten most affordable states to live in 2025:
They are the states with America's worst quality of life in 2025.
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.
Global Liveability Index
Copenhagen was ranked the most liveable city in 2025, while Damascus was ranked the least liveable.
Top 10 States with the Most Beautiful People
The U.S. ranks #1 globally in several key areas like having the largest economy, most powerful military spending, leading in medical research, top-tier universities, significant cultural influence (Hollywood), and high military capabilities, though it also leads in metrics like civilian gun ownership and gun deaths among developed nations, alongside high ratings for entrepreneurship, agility, and power in global perception surveys.
10 wealthiest states in the U.S.
Yes, $100k (AUD) is generally a very good salary in Australia, placing you above the median income and offering financial stability, though it's becoming tighter in expensive cities like Sydney due to high living costs and housing prices, making lifestyle comfort dependent on location and dependents. While it's a strong income, it's closer to the median ($90k) than the high-earning average ($108k), meaning it provides comfort but not necessarily luxury, especially with rising costs.
Homicide rate: Australia's homicide rate hovers around 0.8 per 100,000 people, compared to the U.S. rate of approximately 6 per 100,000. Property crime: Both countries experience property crime, but Australia's rates are generally lower, and violent property crimes (like armed burglary) are less common.