#5: California
Average tip: 15.2%
Percentage of rude drivers: 3%
California’s ranking as one of the rudest states is driven by its urban hubs like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Residents tip an average of 15.2%, and 3% of drivers are reported as rude. Heavy traffic and long commutes often lead to short tempers on the road, while the state’s ambitious, career-driven culture can make interactions feel self-focused or impersonal.

Despite this, California’s laid-back beach communities and rural towns showcase a more welcoming side. Visitors may experience a stark contrast between its cities’ fast-paced, transactional attitudes and the relaxed hospitality of its coastal regions.