Greet Streets: DeKalb Tops IL for Everyday Kindness, Survey Finds.

• Survey of 3,011 travelers to rank U.S. locations by how often people greet strangers in public.
• DeKalb was followed by Rock Island + Quincy.
• Infographic included.

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 5 nationally 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.

3 Illinois towns were named among the most welcoming to strangers:

#50. DeKalb
In DeKalb, you’ll find a welcoming energy driven by both students and locals. Downtown has a homey feel, and whether you’re at a local diner or walking through Hopkins Park, conversations start naturally and kindness flows easily.

#57. Rock Island
Rock Island is rooted in community spirit, with a riverfront that brings people together. Schwiebert Riverfront Park is a local favorite, not just for views, but for the easygoing conversations and friendly energy that ripple through town.

#78. Quincy
Quincy has a historic soul and a modern friendliness that makes you feel right at home. At Washington Park, in the heart of the downtown district, it’s easy to strike up a conversation or share a bench with someone happy to chat.

Infographic 

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 Illinoisans 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.