Last Updated on August 21, 2023
I think we all agree that we need a whole lot more friendliness these days.
In a world filled with bustling cities, busy lives, and stress caused by life situations or nasty, rancid politics, being friendly can often require true effort. Whether slowing down to hold the door open for someone, offering directions to those trying to find their way, or just a friendly smile and thank you can pay big dividends. If nothing else, it makes us all feel a little bit warmer inside and will likely make someone else’s day.
Language resource and learning platform Preply surveyed 1,258 Americans from the 25 most populous cities in the U.S. to explore just how friendly the residents of their city are. Not only in words, but in actions.
Any guesses as to which cities topped the list?
No doubt you’re curious to see if your hometown is included in the rankings or one or more of the places that are your favorite destinations made the list.
Friendliest actions
In America, the most common friendly things people do are hold the door open, hold the elevator for someone, and offer a visitor direction. All three may seem like simple actions, but they make a big impact on the person receiving the gesture.
Other gestures taken into consideration include provide local recommendations, offer to take a photo, share compliments or friendly words, stop to help someone with car issues, say hello to those around them and be active in community service causes.
10 Friendliest U.S. Cities
1. Austin
2. Charlotte
3. Columbus, OH
4. San Antonio
5. El Paso
6. San Diego
7. Fort Worth
8. Nashville
9. Oklahoma City
10. Los Angeles
Friendliest cities toward pets, kids, and strangers
According to 80% of residents polled, people in their city are friendlier towards residents than strangers (which is not really all that surprising). With that, however, Preply was curious to know more, including which cities were the friendliest to strangers, pets, and kids.
Survey respondents revealed that the friendliest cities towards our furry friends are Austin, Denver, and San Diego. Nashville and Washington D.C. followed in fourth and fifth place.
The friendliest U.S. cities for kids included El Paso, Charlotte, and Austin, followed by Oklahoma City, Nashville and San Jose.
And the survey revealed that the friendliest cities towards strangers are El Paso, San Antonio, and Charlotte taking the top three spots, followed by Austin and Columbus.
