In today’s fast-paced world, politeness often takes a back seat. Yet, it remains vital for social harmony.
Preply’s study identifies the most polite states, challenging stereotypes and highlighting regional variations in courteous behavior.
This data-driven exploration reveals where good manners thrive, offering insights into American cultural values.
1. Arkansas: The Pinnacle of Southern Charm and Courtesy
Arkansas leads as the most polite state, boasting a score of 99.3. An impressive 75% of Arkansans prioritize holding doors for others, reflecting a culture of consideration. High perceived politeness reinforces its reputation for Southern charm, making it a welcoming destination.
2. Georgia: Where Respect for Pronouns Elevates Politeness
Georgia secures second place with a score of 98.9, driven by inclusivity. Sixty-two percent of Georgians value respecting preferred titles and pronouns, showcasing a commitment to individual identities. While perceived politeness ranks lower, its dedication to respect is commendable.
3. Alabama: Community-Mindedness Fuels High Politeness Ranking
Alabama ranks third with a score of 98.6, emphasizing community support. Nine out of ten Alabamans prioritize giving up seats on public transport to those in need, highlighting a culture of empathy. Strong perceived politeness underscores its friendly reputation.
4. South Carolina: Southern Hospitality Shines Bright
South Carolina earns a politeness rating of 98.5, embodying Southern hospitality. Despite residents underrating their politeness, its high score confirms its courteous reputation. Visitors can anticipate warm welcomes and polite interactions, reinforcing the state’s charm.
5. Tennessee: Respectful Interactions Define Volunteer State’s Courtesy
Tennessee secures fifth place with a score of 98.0, reflecting respectful interactions. Though Tennesseans perceive their state as less polite, the study highlights its courteous nature. Travelers can expect polite encounters, contributing to a positive experience.
6. Kentucky: Spot-On Politeness in the Bluegrass State
Kentucky ranks sixth with a politeness score of 97.6, mirroring its perceived politeness. Known for breeding horses and polite people, Kentucky offers consistent courteousness. This alignment between actual and perceived politeness solidifies its friendly reputation.
7. Kansas: Sunflower State’s Politeness Underrated by Residents
Kansas also scores 97.6, yet Kansans underestimate their politeness, ranking thirteenth in self-perception. Despite this lower self-view, the data confirms Kansas as a polite state. Visitors may find its residents more courteous than they believe.
8. Louisiana: Pelican State’s Blend of Charm and Courtesy
Louisiana earns a politeness score of 97.3, showcasing a courteous population. Louisianans perceive themselves as more polite than others, although overall, they don’t consider themselves ultra-polite. This mix of charm and courtesy enhances its unique appeal.
9. North Carolina: Tar Heel State’s Politeness Perception Gap
North Carolina scores 97.1, but residents rank it 22nd in perceived politeness, revealing a significant gap. Despite this discrepancy, the data highlights North Carolina’s underlying courteousness. Visitors may find a more polite environment than locals suggest.
10. Michigan: Wolverine State Completes Top Ten with Quiet Politeness
Michigan rounds out the top ten with a score of 97.0, showcasing politeness in the Midwest. However, Michiganians rank their politeness lower, suggesting a modest self-assessment. Travelers can still expect courteous interactions in this state.
11. Minnesota: A Northern Bastion of Impeccable Manners
Minnesota, with a score of 96.8, stands out as a polite state outside the South. Minnesotans see themselves as highly polite, ranking first in perceived politeness, reinforcing a culture of community and respect. This makes it a welcoming destination for visitors.
12. Ohio: Midwest Politeness That Often Goes Unnoticed
Ohio scores 96.7, just below Minnesota, yet Ohioans rank their state’s politeness in 28th place. Despite this lower self-perception, Ohio remains a courteous state according to the study. Travelers may experience more politeness than locals acknowledge.
13. Mississippi: Deep South Charm and Highly Regarded Politeness
Mississippi scores 96.4 for politeness, heading back to the South, and residents rank their state fifth for perceived politeness. This high self-regard aligns with its reputation for Southern charm. Visitors can anticipate warm, polite interactions.
14. Utah: Beehive State’s Solid Politeness Despite Self-Doubt
Utah earns a politeness score of 96.0, although the Beehive State ranks 21st in perceived politeness. Despite underrating themselves, the data confirms Utah’s solid politeness. Visitors may find its residents more courteous than they believe.
15. Virginia: A Welcoming State With a Modest View of Its Politeness
Virginia ties with West Virginia, scoring 95.5 for politeness, but Virginians rank 26th in perceived politeness. Despite this modest self-assessment, visitors can still expect polite gestures. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a pleasant destination.
16. West Virginia: Mountain State’s Pride in Its Hometown Manners
West Virginia ties with Virginia, achieving a politeness score of 95.5, and unlike Virginians, West Virginians rank tenth in perceived politeness. This high self-perception reflects a strong sense of community and courteousness. Travelers can anticipate warm, polite interactions.
17. Iowa: Hawkeye State’s Underrated Midwestern Politeness
Iowa scores 95.4, significantly higher than its perceived score, ranking eleventh. The data indicates Iowa is more polite than residents believe, showcasing its understated charm. Visitors may be pleasantly surprised by the courteous environment.
18. Nebraska: Cornhusker State’s Humble and Heartfelt Politeness
Nebraska falls just below Iowa, with a score of 95.3, and residents land in third place for perceived politeness. This suggests a strong awareness of their courteous behaviors. Travelers can expect genuine, polite interactions.
Alicia Richards