The Most Popular Sport in Every State
Massachusetts – NHL
Massachusetts is a state that loves its sport. With the New England Patriots in the NFL, the Boston Red Sox in MLB, and the Boston Celtics in the NBA, competition for the most popular sport is tough in the state. Ice Hockey, however, takes the top spot. With six Stanley Cup victories to their name, the NHL’s Boston Bruins attract more people in the state of Massachusetts than any other.
New York – MLB
New York is seen by many as the mecca of sports in the United States. You have the New York Giants and New York Jets NFL franchises, the Rangers, Islanders and Sabres for NHL and the NBA’s Knicks and Nets. It is America’s favorite sport, however, that takes the top spot. With the historic Yankees in the Bronx and the Mets in Queens, MLB is New York’s most popular sport.
Oklahoma – NCAA Football
The Sooner state only has one major league franchise in the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder, so Oklahomans spend the majority of their time supporting the minor leagues. Softball is a popular sport, as is minor league baseball, but it is college athletics that this state loves. The famed NCAA rivalry between University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State on the football field attracts more than any other in the state.
Washington – NFL
With Seattle boasting MLB, NBA and NFL franchises, the state capitol sees fans flock to all of their major sporting events. The NFL’s Seattle Seahawks take the lead though in popularity, thanks in part to their 2014 Superbowl victory. The official state sport is recognised as Pickleball, the fastest growing sport in the country according to the SFIA.
Texas – MLB
With Texas being home to ‘America’s Team’, the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, the fact the MLB is the state’s most popular sport may come as a surprise. Home to another NFL team in the Houston Texans, the state also boasts three NBA teams and an NHL side. MLB is represented by the Astros and the Rangers, and more Texans attend or watch this sport than any other.
Hawaii – NFL
Due to its distance from mainland USA, Hawaii does not have any major league teams in any sport. Surfing is taken seriously in Hawaii, but the main focus on sports in Hawaii comes from the college system. The islands host golfing and basketball tournaments annually, yet the sport Hawaiians choose to attend or view more than any other is the NFL.
North Carolina – NFL
North Carolina is home to four major league franchises; the MLS’s Charlotte FC, the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets and, its most popular, the NFL’s Charlotte Panthers. North Carolinians also enjoy an array of other sports, including lacrosse and women’s soccer as well as NASCAR.
Nevada – NHL
What better place to take to the ice than the red-hot Nevada? Thanks to the Vegas Golden Knights, who joined the NHL in 2017, ice hockey is now the state’s favourite sport. With the Las Vegas Raiders moving from Oakland in 2000, the NFL is sure to take this spot from hockey, and by 2027, MLB’s Oakland Athletics are set to also make the move to Nevada.
Georgia – NCAA Football
Georgia has all the major sports covered, including the NBA, NFL, NBA and MLS. It’s NCAA Division 1 football that really gets sports fans in Georgia excited, though. The state hosts the Georgia Bulldogs, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Georgia State Panthers, and Georgia Southern Eagles. The Bulldogs and Yellow Jackets share a storied rivalry called Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate.
California – MLB
Home to 19 major sports franchises, more than any other state, sport is certainly California’s favorite pastime. It is home to the NFL’s Rams, Chargers and 49ers, the NBA’s Lakers, Clippers and Kings, as well as numerous NHL and soccer teams. Taking all this into account, however, no sport in California attracts more fans than baseball. The LA Angels, Oakland A’s, Padres and the Giants make MLB dominate Californian sports.
Alabama - NCAA Football
Under coach Nick Saban, The Alabama Crimson Tide have won multiple national championships. With a record 18 titles, including the 2020 championship, they dominate NCAA football. The fervent support from fans at Bryant-Denny Stadium, coupled with their consistent success, has solidified their status as Alabama's pride and joy.
Florida - NFL Football
Credit: ChaChaFut via Wikimedia CommonsFlorida houses the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Jacksonville Jaguars. The Buccaneers, led by quarterback Tom Brady, secured Super Bowl LV. The Dolphins, with their rich history, and the Jaguars, fostering a loyal fan base, collectively make NFL Sundays a grand celebration in the Sunshine State.
District of Columbia - MLB Baseball
Credit: UKinUSA via Wikimedia CommonsThe Washington Nationals, 2019 World Series champions, are a source of immense pride in D.C. Nationals Park has witnessed unforgettable games, including the 2019 Fall Classic. With star players and passionate fans, the Nationals elevate baseball's status, making it a cherished sport in the district.
Idaho - NCAA Football
Credit: Angie H via Wikimedia CommonsThe people of Idaho rally behind college football, particularly the Boise State Broncos. The team's iconic blue turf at Albertsons Stadium is synonymous with their success. With multiple conference titles and bowl game wins, the Broncos' achievements bolster NCAA football's standing in Idaho, making it the state's most popular sport.
Mississippi - NCAA Football
Credit: Jon Ross Myers via Wikimedia CommonsThe Mississippi State Bulldogs and Ole Miss Rebels define football in Mississippi. With intense rivalry, the Egg Bowl is a celebrated tradition. Both teams have produced NFL talents, and their games draw immense attention, making NCAA football an integral part of the state’s sports culture.
Minnesota - NFL Football
Credit: Runner1928 via Wikimedia CommonsThe Minnesota Vikings are the heartbeat of football in Minnesota. With notable players like Adrian Peterson and a passionate fan base, U.S. Bank Stadium buzzes with energy at every game. The team's consistent competitiveness ensures football's popularity and pride in the state, leaving little doubt that Football is Minnesota's number one.
New Hampshire - NHL Hockey
Credit: Hendrik Seis via Wikimedia CommonsNew Hampshire residents ardently support NHL hockey, with the Boston Bruins being the team of choice. With a history of Stanley Cup wins and players like Brad Marchand, the Bruins' games resonate strongly in the state. The team's victories contribute to the sport's popularity in New Hampshire.
New Jersey - MLB Baseball
Credit: dronepicr via Wikimedia CommonsThe New York Yankees, though based in New York, have a massive fan base in New Jersey. With numerous World Series victories and legendary players, including Babe Ruth and Derek Jeter, the Yankees' legacy resonates strongly. Their games at Yankee Stadium create an electric atmosphere, making baseball a beloved sport in the state.
New Mexico - NFL Football
Credit: PontiacAurora via Wikimedia CommonsNew Mexicans avidly follow the NFL, with neighboring teams like the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals being popular choices. The Broncos, with Super Bowl wins and star players, command a loyal fan base. NFL Sundays are eagerly anticipated, fostering a vibrant football culture in New Mexico.
Tennessee - NCAA Football
Credit: Elijahlight via Wikimedia CommonsThe Tennessee Volunteers and Vanderbilt Commodores are stalwarts of college football in Tennessee. The Volunteers, with a rich history and passionate fan base, create an electric atmosphere at Neyland Stadium. Vanderbilt, too, contributes to the state's football fervor, making NCAA football a cherished tradition of Tennessee.
Colorado - NBA Basketball
Credit: All-Pro Reels via Wikimedia CommonsThe Denver Nuggets have shone in the NBA with star center Nikola Jokic. Their impressive playoff runs, including the 2020 Western Conference Finals and a memorable NBA Finals victory in 2022 over Miami Heat have captivated fans. The team’s success, coupled with the electric atmosphere at the Ball Arena, cements basketball’s popularity in Colorado.
Louisiana - NCAA Football
Credit: JustDog via Wikimedia CommonsThe LSU Tigers football team, boasting several national championships, is a pride of Louisiana. Tiger Stadium, known as Death Valley, roars with passionate fans during games, especially when singing their signature fight song 'Fight For LSU'. LSU's rich football traditions, including Heisman Trophy winners, define the sport in the state.
Vermont - NHL Hockey
Credit: Michael Miller via Wikimedia CommonsVermonters passionately follow NHL hockey, with the Boston Bruins being a cherished team. With multiple Stanley Cup wins and players like Patrice Bergeron, the Bruins' games resonate strongly in the state. The team's victories contribute to the sport's popularity in Vermont, fostering a loyal fan base.
Wisconsin - NBA Basketball
Credit: The ed17 via Wikimedia CommonsThe Milwaukee Bucks are the pride of Wisconsin in the NBA. With their recent NBA Championship and star player Giannis Antetokounmpo, the team has captured the state’s heart. Fiserv Forum witnesses electrifying games, fostering a vibrant basketball community. The Bucks' triumphs have elevated NBA basketball's status in the state.
Oregon - NBA Basketball
Credit: Another Believer via Wikimedia CommonsThe Portland Trail Blazers are Oregon's pride in the NBA. With stars like Damian Lillard, the team consistently competes at a high level. Moda Center, their home arena, witnesses intense games, fostering a strong basketball community in the state. The Trail Blazers' successes have elevated NBA basketball's popularity in Oregon.
Pennsylvania - NFL Football
Credit: Erik Drost via Wikimedia CommonsPennsylvania is home to two NFL powerhouses: the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Philadelphia Eagles. The Steelers, with multiple Super Bowl titles, and the Eagles, with their passionate fan base and a recent Super Bowl win, create a vibrant football culture. Games at Heinz Field and Lincoln Financial Field are must-attend events.
Rhode Island - NFL Football
Credit: SAB0TEUR via Wikimedia CommonsRhode Islanders rally behind the NFL, with the New England Patriots as perennial favorites. The Patriots, with numerous Super Bowl wins and legendary quarterback Tom Brady, have a dedicated fan base in the state. NFL Sundays are the main event for families here, with fans eagerly supporting their beloved team.
Utah - NBA Basketball
The Utah Jazz are synonymous with basketball in the state of Utah. With legendary players like Stockton and Malone, the team consistently competes at a high level. Vivint Arena witnesses intense games, creating a passionate basketball culture. The Jazz's successes have elevated NBA basketball's popularity in the state.
Wyoming - MLB Baseball
Credit: Thelastcanadian via Wikimedia CommonsWhile Wyoming doesn't have its own MLB team, the state's proximity to the Colorado Rockies fosters a love for baseball. Rockies' games, especially at Coors Field, are popular among Wyomingites. The team's thrilling matches, combined with their scenic home stadium, create a unique baseball experience for fans in the state.
Kentucky - NCAA Basketball
Credit: BlueShirtz via Wikimedia CommonsKentucky Wildcats basketball is a cultural phenomenon. With eight NCAA championships and a passionate fan base, Rupp Arena in Lexington buzzes with excitement during games and even neutrals get caught up in the atmosphere. The Wildcats' storied history and consistent competitiveness make NCAA basketball an integral part of Kentucky's sports identity.
Indiana - NFL Football
Credit: Josh Hallett via Wikimedia CommonsIndiana's love for football centers around the Indianapolis Colts. The team have clinched Super Bowl's V and XLI. Lucas Oil Stadium, where the Colts relocated to in 2008, hosts exciting games, and the Colts' consistent competitiveness ensures a passionate following, making NFL football a cherished pastime.
South Carolina - NCAA Football
The Clemson Tigers and South Carolina Gamecocks are football powerhouses in South Carolina. Clemson, with multiple national championships, and South Carolina, with passionate fans, create a thrilling football atmosphere. The rivalry between these teams during the Palmetto Bowl is a cherished tradition, enhancing NCAA football's significance in the state.
South Dakota - NFL Football
Credit: Jeffrey Beall via Wikimedia CommonsSouth Dakotans enthusiastically support the NFL, with teams like the Minnesota Vikings and Denver Broncos being fan favorites. The Vikings, with star players and Super Bowl appearances, have a dedicated following that pack out the U.S Bank Stadium on game days. Fans across the state come together every week for NFL Sundays.
West Virginia - NCAA Football
Credit: Al Johnson via Wikimedia CommonsWest Virginians are ardent in their passion for college football, particularly the West Virginia Mountaineers. With a fervent fan base and exciting gameplay, Milan Puskar Stadium becomes an arena of passion. The Mountaineers' successes, including bowl game victories, make NCAA football an integral part of the state’s sports identity.
Kansas - NFL Football
Credit: All-Pro Reels via Wikimedia CommonsThe Kansas City Chiefs are the heart of football and the community in Kansas. Led by superstar Patrick Mahomes, they secured multiple AFC championships and won Super Bowl LIV. Arrowhead Stadium's electric atmosphere during home games amplifies the sport's appeal, uniting fans across the state.
Connecticut - MLB Baseball
Credit: Parker Harrington via Wikimedia CommonsConnecticut's love for baseball is channelled towards the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees. These iconic teams have clinched numerous titles, captivating fans. Fenway Park and Yankee Stadium, hosting thrilling games, create a baseball buzz in Connecticut and with the venues being just a short drive away, baseball fosters a passionate following in the state.
Iowa - NFL Football
Credit: Joe Bielawa via Wikimedia CommonsIowans passionately support the NFL, with the nearby Minnesota Vikings and Kansas City Chiefs being popular choices. The Vikings' storied legacy, including Super Bowl appearances, and the Chiefs' recent successes with the likes of Patrick Mahomes ensure that Iowa's sports fans are torn between which team to support.
Maine - NFL Football
Credit: SAB0TEUR via Wikimedia CommonsMainers support the NFL with fervor, especially the New England Patriots. With multiple Super Bowl wins, the Patriots, with their passionate fanbase, command a dedicated following. The team's successes, combined with Maine's proximity to New England, make NFL football a cherished sport in the state.
Maryland - MLB Baseball
Credit: Keith Allison via Wikimedia CommonsThe Baltimore Orioles, with multiple World Series titles, are Maryland’s black and orange pride. Oriole Park at Camden Yards offers a classic baseball experience. With legendary players and a passionate fan base, the Orioles’ rich history cements baseball as a beloved sport in the state.
Montana - NFL Football
Credit: M I K E M O R R I S via Wikimedia CommonsMontanans rally behind NFL football, with the nearby Seattle Seahawks being a popular choice. The team's Super Bowl victory in 2013 made the players instant heroes in the state. The Seahawks' games at Lumen Field are eagerly anticipated, fostering a vibrant NFL fan community in Montana.