10 of the Most Polite Cities in America
Certain U.S. cities make courtesy a daily habit. Surveys and cultural studies highlight places where kindness is routine, and the overall atmosphere makes both locals and visitors feel welcome and at ease. Each location on this list offers a unique glimpse into how good manners thrive in different settings.
Omaha, Nebraska
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Omaha ranks with a low rudeness score of 6.24 out of 10. Residents often guide newcomers through unfamiliar neighborhoods and hold doors without hesitation. Public events reflect this spirit, where crowds remain considerate even during busy times.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Here, people thank bus drivers, compliment store clerks, and often pick up stray litter without prompting. Data shows that 42 percent of locals regularly share compliments with strangers. This habit helps sustain a welcoming vibe in a bustling metro area.
San Diego, California
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San Diego shows that big cities can still be friendly. Locals are quick to offer directions to tourists, and drivers commonly allow others to merge during peak hours. A blend of laid‑back culture and military influence shapes these habits. Politeness feels effortless and gives the city a bright, inviting edge.
Columbus, Ohio
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Rather than relying on grand gestures, Columbus shines through consistent small courtesies. Surveys reveal that residents frequently use “please” and “thank you,” while sporting events highlight a crowd that remains upbeat and respectful. A courtesy score around 6.70 backs up the reputation.
Kansas City, Missouri
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Southern charm blends with Midwest calm in Kansas City, where many residents greet neighbors daily. A 6.78 rudeness scale score shows that politeness is widespread. Tourists often praise drivers for yielding at intersections and store employees for their patient service. Cultural pride runs deep, and hospitality spills into restaurants, music venues, and local festivals.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Courtesy here feels built-in, not just a tourist slogan. At markets and museums, staff help without hesitation, and it’s common for people to offer their seats on crowded buses—about 60 percent do, according to some studies. The city’s rudeness score sits at 6.89, putting Milwaukee reliably among America’s friendliest places.
Indianapolis, Indiana
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Large sporting events often highlight how polite Indianapolis can be. Reports describe event staff and residents giving visitors a smooth, welcoming experience. Everyday interactions mirror that same attitude, with people holding doors or offering quick directions in elevators. Even during the rush of conventions or races, locals maintain a calm approach that leaves travelers and new neighbors feeling appreciated.
San Jose, California
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Tech hubs are not always known for warmth, but San Jose breaks the mold. Busy schedules do not stop residents from showing small acts of respect that leave lasting impressions. Transit studies note that many riders help others navigate routes.
Raleigh, North Carolina
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Customer service ratings in Raleigh outshine those of many comparable cities. This emphasis on respect contributes to a rudeness score of 6.98. Even as tech and education sectors expand, a sense of Southern warmth remains visible. Shoppers, commuters, and tourists alike benefit from an atmosphere where kindness flows naturally in everyday exchanges.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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Merging into traffic in Oklahoma City, you’ll likely catch a wave of thanks from another driver. It’s not unusual to see someone help carry groceries or hold a door. The city keeps a friendly edge, even as it grows, and people seem to look out for each other in everyday moments.
Atlanta, Georgia
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Holding doors and using preferred pronouns are common habits in Atlanta. Southern culture shapes a community that values greeting strangers with a smile. About 62 percent of Georgia residents emphasize respectful titles in everyday conversation. Even in hectic downtown streets, people pause to show consideration.
Little Rock, Arkansas
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The city’s size allows for friendly exchanges without the rush of larger metros. Survey data shows nearly three-quarters of Little Rock residents prioritize offering assistance, like opening doors. Arkansas ranks near 99 out of 100 in politeness metrics, and the state capital reflects that well.
Birmingham, Alabama
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In Birmingham, you notice small gestures on every ride: someone stands up so a stranger can sit, a quick nod or smile as people move through a crowded bus. Even when days get tense, most folks keep their tempers in check. Manners aren’t a show here; they’re just part of the city’s rhythm.
Lincoln, Nebraska
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In Lincoln, conversations between locals and visitors come easily. People often step up to offer directions or lend a hand with bags. Nebraska routinely scores high for politeness, and Lincoln fits that reputation. Whether it’s at a festival, a market, or a college event, the city’s friendliness isn’t forced—it’s just how things are done.
Charlotte, North Carolina
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Rapid growth has not erased Charlotte’s habit of treating people well. Customer service scores here beat many metropolitan averages. Drivers remain considerate despite heavy traffic, a rarity in fast-expanding cities. Politeness contributes to a sense of balance between business and hospitality. Even as new residents arrive daily, the city keeps its reputation for thoughtful interaction alive.