Is Lubbock Really The Friendliest City In America?

How Lubbock Could Actually Be the Friendliest City in America

Lubbock was once promoted as “The Friendliest City in America.”
It was... kind of a stretch.

Most folks don’t know that title came from a Texas Monthly article highlighting a quirky little stat: Lubbock said “Good Morning” on Twitter more than any other city.

That's it. That was the whole reason.
Yeah... that’s some weaksauce.

If we want to earn that title for real, it starts with some basic changes in how we treat each other—every day, in every part of the city.

It Starts on the Road

Courtesy begins before the handshake—like when someone’s trying to merge on the Loop.

Lubbock drivers have a reputation for road rage, which is ridiculous considering how little traffic we actually have. Slow down. Let people in. Give them space. And by jiminy, use your turn signals.

If we can’t be friendly on the road, how are we supposed to pull it off anywhere else?

Ambassadors to the Art Trail

We’re missing an easy win here.
First Friday Art Trail brings in locals and tourists, but the welcome could be warmer. Imagine friendly folks greeting guests, helping them find galleries or food trucks—not just for security, but for genuine hospitality. The same thing could be done for sporting events and other large gatherings.

That little extra effort would go a long way toward making the experience feel inviting instead of confusing.

Drop the High School Rivalries

Some folks never grow out of that “us vs. them” high school mindset.
That attitude might belong in the stands on Friday night, but it doesn't do any favors in real life.

We’re all neighbors. Whether it’s at a ballgame, the grocery store, or a backyard cookout—being cool with people outside your circle is part of being truly friendly.

Use Your Manners (Every Time)

Lubbock does okay on this front—but we could do better.
Hold the door. Say “thank you.” Be kind to servers, cashiers, delivery drivers, and anyone else who deals with the public. These are the people who often catch the worst moods, and they deserve the best manners.

It doesn’t take much to show a little extra respect—but it means everything.

Teach It. Preach It.

Kindness isn’t just a character trait—it’s a culture. And culture can be taught.

Whether it's part of classroom lessons or city-wide reminders like the classic “Drive Friendly” signs, small nudges matter. Friendly cities don’t just happen. They’re built on everyday choices, modeled behaviors, and people who believe in making others feel welcome.

Bottom line: If we want to wear the crown of “Friendliest City in America,” we have to earn it.

One smile, one wave, one “thank you” at a time.