San Diego has gained national recognition for something personal: its people. In a new report by the social and dating app Yuzu, San Diego was officially ranked the friendliest city in America, scoring an impressive 8.67 out of 10 based on real-life user experiences.
The ranking comes at the perfect time, as a record number of travelers flock to San Diego for the long weekend. According to AAA, over five million Californians are expected to travel, and San Diego International Airport alone is bracing for 80,000 passengers per day. But amidst the packed terminals and busy freeways, the city’s welcoming spirit continues to shine.
What makes San Diego so friendly?
Yuzu’s ranking looked at how often locals engage in positive interactions, offer help to strangers, and display general warmth—and San Diego rose to the top. Locals are known for striking up friendly conversations with visitors, helping with directions, or simply offering a smile in passing. The laid-back, coastal lifestyle contributes to this vibe, but it’s more than just sunshine. Hospitality here feels genuine.
Annie Fitzgerald, Chair of the Board for the San Diego Tourism Authority, says it best: “Tourism is our primary business, but hospitality is in our nature. We naturally connect with people and build relationships with our visitors and residents alike.”
From small moments—like a barista remembering your name—to bigger ones, like local volunteers helping at community events, there’s an openness in San Diego that visitors notice and remember.
The report also highlighted San Diego’s beach-friendly, outdoor lifestyle, which fosters a sense of ease and openness. Whether you’re catching a sunset in La Jolla, walking through Balboa Park, or exploring the Gaslamp Quarter, there’s a shared appreciation for the beauty of the city and the community that calls it home.
One San Diego teen, Cody Nelson, captured the sentiment simply: “Born and raised here, I’m only 15, but this is probably the greatest city to live in, in my opinion.”
This title isn’t just good PR—it’s a reminder of what sets San Diego apart. In a time when many cities are dealing with the pressures of growth, traffic, and economic change, San Diego continues to lead with kindness. That’s something to be proud of, and something locals can carry into every interaction—whether with neighbors or first-time visitors.
