When traveling, some cities instantly make you feel at home. A recent report by Yuzu, a social app under Match Group, identified San Diego, California, as the friendliest city in the US. Renowned for its pleasant climate, relaxed vibe, and strong community, this coastal gem received an impressive score of 8.67 out of 10 in the rankings.
The study assessed various factors including positive interactions with strangers, the willingness to assist, and the overall friendliness of residents—demonstrating that in San Diego, warm welcomes and friendly attitudes are as plentiful as breathtaking ocean views.
Friendliest cities ranking : How the scores were determined
The list originates from Yuzu, a social and dating app designed to nurture friendships, particularly within the Asian-American community. In April 2025, Yuzu surveyed its users about their home cities, ranking them based on various aspects of friendliness, such as daily interactions and likelihood of receiving help.
- Every city was assigned a score determined by three primary factors:
- Frequency of positive encounters with strangers
- Likelihood of receiving assistance in daily life
- General perception of the friendliness of local residents
Participants evaluated their cities on a scale from one to ten. These insights were combined to produce a final friendliness score, which Yuzu described as a blend of “quantifiable data and the lived experiences of residents.”
Why San Diego topped the friendliest cities list
San Diego clearly stood out with an impressive score of 8.67 out of 10. As noted by Travel and Leisure, the city embodies “the qualities that make neighborhoods feel like home.” With its easygoing coastal lifestyle and renowned sunny disposition, San Diego welcomes both residents and visitors alike.
The temperate climate aids this atmosphere: average temperatures range from 50°F to 77°F year-round, creating an ideal environment for outdoor activities. Whether you’re taking a stroll in Balboa Park, catching waves at Pacific Beach, or savoring a sunset along the bay, the surroundings foster connection and conversation.
The local culture significantly contributes to this friendliness. Often described as having “beach vibes, surf-friendly shores, and locals who are as relaxed as the ocean breeze,” San Diego has long been synonymous with friendliness and an open community spirit. For those seeking both natural beauty and warm human interactions, this city is definitely worth a visit.
Other top friendliest cities in the US that made the top 10
While San Diego takes the lead, other cities also showcased warmth and hospitality. Raleigh, North Carolina, secured second place for its blend of southern charm and modern innovation, while Phoenix, Arizona, came third, celebrated for its sunny, can-do spirit. Miami ranked fourth, highlighting cultural diversity and community vibrancy, with Houston in fifth, acclaimed for its southern hospitality.
Honolulu claimed sixth with its “aloha spirit,” followed by Boston in seventh for its approachable locals. San Jose, Minneapolis, and Denver completed the top ten, each recognized for their open-mindedness, kindness, and community-centric cultures.
While many cities received high scores, not every destination thrived in this ranking. Wichita, Kansas, found itself at the bottom of the list. However, ranking low in perceived friendliness doesn’t imply a lack of potential. As Yuzu suggested, a bit of kindness from guests could uplift its ranking next year. Sometimes, just a few positive interactions can shift the perception of a community.
How the friendliest cities enhance travel experiences
When selecting a travel destination, practical factors like price, attractions, and accessibility are often considered. Yet, the element of friendliness—the feeling of being welcomed, aided, and embraced by a community—can be equally important. Cities like San Diego, Raleigh, and Phoenix prove that a warm local atmosphere can make your trip unforgettable.
So, if you envision a vacation filled with not only sightseeing but also meaningful human connections, this list may inspire your next journey. If you find yourself in San Diego, don’t be surprised if locals greet you with the same warmth as the sun casting its glow over the iconic beaches.
Also Read:
World witnessed the longest 74-minute solar eclipse in history with Concorde 001 flying at 2,500 km/h
