Here Are the Top 10 U.S. States with the Most NFL Football Fans

October 24, 2023

NFL football brings fans together for exciting games, thrilling touchdowns, and unforgettable moments. Football season also brings forth some shifts in consumer trends. For example, more consumers are likely to visit electronics stores for TV purchases once football season rolls around, and consumers are more likely to purchase snacks like chips and salsa at their local grocery stores. Consumer foot traffic also increases at places like football stadiums and sports bars as fans gather to watch games every week.

Although consumer trends change all across the country during football season, we wondered where most football fans are located and where these shifting trends are most likely to take place. To learn more, we analyzed consumer foot traffic to football-related places and events to find out the top 10 states with the highest percentage of NFL football fans among their populations.

Football fans celebrating the win of their team at a tailgate party

The Top 10 States with the Most NFL Football Fans

1. Georgia

Georgia, home to the Atlanta Falcons, boasts a passionate NFL fan base and a strong football culture. Georgia’s football fervor extends beyond the Falcons, with college football powerhouse teams like the Georgia Bulldogs adding to the state’s rich sports legacy.

2. North Dakota

Despite lacking its own NFL team, North Dakota is home to a surprising number of NFL fans. Local communities unite to celebrate the sport during game days by collectively watching teams from neighboring states.

3. Alabama

Alabama’s deep-rooted football culture, highlighted by revered college teams like the Crimson Tide, naturally translates into a substantial NFL fan base, with avid supporters cheering for various professional teams.

4. Maryland

The Baltimore Ravens’ success on the field has cemented a deep-rooted pride among Maryland’s NFL fans, creating a powerful sense of camaraderie and dedication to the team in the state.

5. Washington, D.C

The nation’s capital is home to the Washington Commanders, a team with a passionate local fan base and a storied history, both of which contribute to the high number of NFL football fans in the D.C. area.

6. South Dakota

South Dakota’s passionate NFL fan base is fueled by a deep-seated love for the sport, with many residents embracing teams from nearby states, creating a vibrant and dedicated community of football enthusiasts.

7. Tennessee

Tennessee boasts the Tennessee Titans, a team with a devoted fan base and a lively football culture, especially in cities like Nashville, contributing to the state’s significant NFL following.

8. South Carolina

With the nearby presence of NFL teams like the Carolina Panthers, South Carolina’s NFL fandom is bolstered by regional pride and a strong interest in football as a beloved American pastime.

9. Minnesota

Minnesota’s passion for football, combined with the rich legacy of the Minnesota Vikings, cultivates a thriving NFL football fan community within the state.

10. Nebraska

Nebraska’s deep-rooted love for football, particularly college football with the University of Nebraska’s Cornhuskers, naturally extends to support for NFL teams, contributing to the state’s significant NFL fan base.

NFL Football Across the U.S.

While the majority of Americans are football fans, these top 10 states boast the most NFL football fans in the nation and see probably some of the highest levels of foot traffic to football stadiums, sports apparel stores, sports bars, and more. Whether it’s the spirited tailgating in Tennessee, the vibrant football culture in North Dakota, or the dedicated fans filling the stadium in Minnesota, it’s evident that NFL football acts as a unifying force, showcasing the joy and camaraderie that comes from rallying behind a team transcends state lines.

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