3 NJ Towns Among Kindest In The U.S., New Survey Says

NEW JERSEY — Three towns in New Jersey are known as some of the kindest in the nation, according to a new survey of travelers.

AMFM conducted a survey of 3,011 travelers and asked them to rank U.S. locations by how often people greet strangers in public – whether that means a nod on a hiking trail, a “good morning” at a coffee shop, or a friendly “how ya’ doing?” in line at the grocery store.

According to officials, research shows that small social interactions with strangers can boost someone’s mood, reduce stress, and create a stronger sense of belonging. A quick smile or even a hello can be “surprisingly powerful” in helping people feel less isolated.

The three New Jersey towns named among the most welcoming to strangers are:

48. Bridgeton
Bridgetown has a “quiet friendliness that runs deep,” according to travelers, and is known as the kind of place where people make eye contact, hold the door and ask how you’re doing.

At Bridgeton City Park (one of the largest municipal parks in the state), travelers said you’ll find families picnicking, joggers waving hello, and neighbors chatting like old friends.

“The town may fly under the radar, but the warmth here is unmistakable,” the survey said.

86. Vineland
Surrounded by farmland and open skies, travelers said the people of Vineland are just as open-hearted as its landscape.

From the locally loved Landis Avenue to the greenery of Giampietro Park, travelers said Vineland is a place where “folks greet you with warmth and are always ready to point out the best pizza joint or a hidden gem in town.”

90. Phillipsburg
Nestled along the Delaware River, travelers said Phillipsburg has a “proud, blue-collar spirit softened by genuine kindness.”

The people of Phillipsburg are quick to help, according to the survey, whether you’re asking for directions or browsing shops near South Main Street. Summer concerts, impromptu neighborhood soccer games and more can also be found at Walters Park, travelers said, with “plenty of friendly hellos in between.”

In addition to the three NJ towns that travelers named as the most welcoming to strangers, towns from Hawaii, South Carolina, Texas and North Carolina made up the top five on the list:

1. Hilo, Hawaii
2. Conway, South Carolina
3. Greer, South Carolina
4. Temple, Texas
5. Sanford, North Carolina

“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,” said Anand Mehta, executive director at AMFM Healthcare.

“In a world where digital interactions often dominate, these face-to-face moments are more valuable than ever,” Mehta continued. “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.”

To see the full ranking, you can click here.