In some cities, it’s totally normal to smile or say “hi” to a stranger on the street. In others, that kind of friendliness gets you a weird look. But could something as simple as a greeting help reduce stress and create a kinder society?

AMFM ran a survey of  3,011 travelers  in order to rank U.S. cities and towns by how often people greet strangers in public – whether it’s a nod on a hiking trail, a “good morning” at the coffee shop, or a friendly “how ya doin’” in line at the grocery store.

Why does it matter? Research shows that small social interactions with strangers can boost mood, reduce stress, and create a stronger sense of belonging. A quick smile or hello can be surprisingly powerful in helping people feel less isolated – even on their busiest days.

The top 10 were as follows:

#1. Hilo, Hawaii

Hilo is wrapped in aloha spirit – not just in words, but in how people treat each other. At Liliʻuokalani Gardens, locals and visitors mingle peacefully, and smiles are freely given, making it easy to feel part of the community from the moment you arrive.

#2. Conway, South Carolina

Conway carries a quiet charm that makes people feel welcome the moment they arrive. Strolling down the Riverwalk along the Waccamaw River, you’ll find friendly greetings and easy conversations — whether from a lifelong resident or a smiling shop owner downtown. This is a town that thrives on community, and it shows in the way neighbors treat each other like family.

#3. Greer, South Carolina

Greer has a small-town soul with a growing sense of vibrancy. Locals gather along Trade Street for food, music, and friendly conversation, especially during community events in Greer City Park. Whether you’re new or just passing through, folks here will make sure you’re seen, welcomed, and maybe even invited to stay a little longer.

#4. Temple, Texas

Temple feels both modern and grounded – a town where community still comes first. At Miller Park, you’ll often find families picnicking, joggers exchanging waves, and children playing under the watchful eyes of friendly neighbors. Whether you’re in town for work or just stopping through, Temple makes it easy to feel at home.

#5. Sanford, North Carolina

Sanford feels like the kind of town where everyone knows someone – and they’re eager to introduce you, too. Depot Park downtown serves as the town’s social hub, and it’s not unusual to see folks catching up on the latest over ice cream or a walk. People here take the time to be friendly – and it shows.

#6. Aiken, South Carolina

Aiken is one of those rare towns where hospitality still feels heartfelt, not hurried. Known for its equestrian roots and tree-lined streets, it’s easy to feel at home here. A walk through Hopelands Gardens often turns into a conversation — with a local pointing out their favorite walking path or sharing a bit of Aiken’s horse-country charm. It’s Southern warmth at its most gracious.

#7. Rome, Georgia

Rome is the kind of town where everyone knows your name — or learns it fast. Broad Street, lined with shops and cafes, has a welcoming buzz where people stop to chat and newcomers don’t stay strangers for long.

#8. Columbia, Tennessee

Known as the “Mule Capital of the World,” Columbia pairs quirky charm with Southern warmth. On the square downtown, you’ll find music, markets, and merchants who greet you like an old friend. Riverwalk Park along the Duck River is a favorite spot for quiet reflection and casual conversation — both of which come easily here.

#9. Thomasville, Georgia

Thomasville’s Southern charm runs deep, especially along brick-lined streets like Broad Street. Locals are known for their politeness and genuine interest in others, and a visit to Paradise Park often turns into a friendly conversation under the shade of beautiful trees.

#10. Morristown, Tennessee

In Morristown, there’s something comforting in how people treat each other — like everyone’s on the same team. Whether you’re exploring the historic overhead sidewalks downtown or enjoying a sunny day at Cherokee Park, you’re bound to get a few waves and a warm welcome from folks who take pride in their community. 

Additional Research

The research didn’t just stop at identifying the friendliest cities – it also dug into how greetings impact people emotionally and socially, and who we’re most likely to exchange a friendly nod or “hello” with. 

So who are Americans most likely to greet?

Unsurprisingly, neighbors topped the list – reminding us that familiarity breeds friendliness. 

·      Neighbors – 60%

·      Dog walkers – 14%

·      Delivery drivers – 12%

·      Fellow commuters – 8%

·      People in line (e.g., at stores or cafés) – 4%

·      Runners or cyclists passing by – 2% 

Interestingly, many respondents say these quick exchanges with strangers leave a lasting impression. 

“Do greetings improve your mood?”

·      Yes, definitely – 43%

·      Sometimes – 47%

·      Not really – 10% 

These small moments, while fleeting, appear to have a cumulative effect. Nearly 9 in 10 people said they’ve had a meaningful conversation that started with nothing more than a smile or hello. 

Have you ever had a meaningful conversation with someone who initially greeted you as a stranger? 

·      Yes – 86%

·      No – 14% 

And it’s not just about the individual. When asked whether their community could benefit from more of these micro-interactions, the answer was almost unanimous: 

·      Yes – 94%

·      No – 6% 

There’s also widespread belief in the deeper mental health benefits of small gestures: 

“Small acts of kindness, like greetings, can improve mental well-being in everyday life.”

Agree – 63% 

However, the findings also reflect a reality many people face when they’re struggling emotionally. When asked how they react to greetings while feeling anxious or low, responses were mixed: 

·      I welcome them – 28%

·      I usually avoid them – 32%

·      It depends – 30%

·      I don’t notice – 10%

“What this survey shows is something many of us know intuitively –  that the simple act of saying hello can change the tone of a day, or even spark a meaningful connection. In a world where digital interactions often dominate, these face-to-face moments are more valuable than ever. Whether it’s a nod on a morning walk or a chat at the local coffee shop, these small acts help stitch together the fabric of a stronger, more connected community”, says Anand Mehta, Executive Director at AMFM Healthcare.