Outsiders Beware: These 13 U.S. States Are Off Limits
The United States is a melting pot of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. There is a place for everyone it seems: from bustling cities to sprawling deserts. However, it often comes as a shock to visitors that there are states where outsiders don’t get the red carpet treatment. Some states prefer to stay a little more… exclusive, whether it’s due to their fierce sense of community, unique laws, or rugged environments.
This article isn’t about painting broad strokes—every state has charm and quirks. It’s about those places, where moving in might feel like cracking a safe. These states range from complex traditions to outright suspicion of newcomers who make outsiders feel like they’ve joined a private party without an invitation.
Vermont’s Small-Town Loyalty
Locals love Vermont for its scenic countryside and idyllic small towns, but they’re protective of their way of life. It is a tight-knit community, and outsiders, particularly those from urban areas often struggle to integrate. That’s not hostility, it’s loyalty. It’s been home to many Vermont families for generations and newcomers can feel put under the microscope.
West Virginia’s Guarded Mountains
West Virginia, which is tucked away in the Appalachian region, has a reputation for being wary of outsiders. Its history makes it wary—many coal mining communities survived tough times through a lot of trust and shared values. Some people in communities believe that more outsiders will take their jobs or their culture away. Tourists who choose to get to know West Virginians will find a warmth underneath that initial frostiness.
The Love of Wide Open Spaces in Wyoming
Wyoming has fewer than 600,000 residents living on broad plains and rugged mountains, making it the nation’s least populous state. That’s how the locals like it, and that’s just fine. They are wary of newcomers who might upset the balance because residents value independence, privacy, and their space. For those moving in, don’t expect neighbors to drop by with a casserole.
Hawaii’s Views on Tourism
Visitors flock to Hawaii’s natural beauty by the millions every year, but that doesn’t mean locals are excited about the prospect of outsiders establishing permanent residence. Often, Native Hawaiians, or Kānaka Maoli, feel upset by the changes tourism and migration have brought to their culture, housing, and natural resources.
Montana’s Quiet Rebellion
In recent years, Montana has become a hot spot for folks looking to get away from crowded cities, but this influx isn’t exactly all welcome. Rural, and low-key lifestyle is cherished by Montanans, and they aren’t excited about outsiders bringing their urban habits along for the ride.
Texas Pride in Overdrive
In Texas, big personalities and big pride are big things. Despite huge population growth, Texans are fiercely protective of their traditions and lifestyle. If newcomers don’t learn the Texan way—football, barbecue, and the occasional ‘y’all’—they’re likely to feel like outliers.
Oregon’s Unwritten Rules
On the surface, Oregon might seem progressive and welcoming, but there are unwritten rules that outsiders need to know. Newcomers also have to learn the ropes when it comes to etiquette or the state’s passionate position on environmentalism.
Rugged Individualism in South Dakota
On the surface, South Dakota doesn’t seem threatening, but residents are rough individualists who prize self-sufficiency above all. You may be in for a shock if you’re an outsider looking for convenience. Wide open spaces and harsh winters mean the state is the place for the determined and resourceful spirit. Although South Dakotans are independent, they are renowned for their tight-knit community and neighborly assistance.
Prairie Pragmatism in North Dakota
North Dakotans are friendly and practical and will not tolerate nonsense from anyone. You’re moving in, but don’t expect to be coddled. Residents in remote towns know harsh winters well and pride themselves on resilience and community — not frivolity.
Utah’s Tight-Knit Communities
With over 60 percent of the population adhering to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, according to Salt Lake Tribune, Utah’s culture is very much rooted in Mormonism. This shared faith forms tight-knit communities which seems impenetrable to outsiders.
The Fierce Independence of New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s motto: ‘Live Free or Die’, is a way of life. It’s a fiercely independent state, and people who love freedom flock here. The state is proud of its self-reliance, and people here often resist what they see as threats to their way of life. Therefore, it can be difficult for newcomers to adapt to a community where tradition and the spirit of independence are so highly valued.
Maine’s Yankee Reserve
Mainers, especially rural Mainers, are polite but reserved. Folks can often be a bit standoffish until they know you’re not just passing through — that’s the “Yankee mentality.” Transplants are familiar with the sentiment “You’re not really from here unless your grandparents were born here.”
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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