Anime is no longer a niche interest but a mainstream phenomenon that has captured the hearts of millions across the United States. From epic battles to emotional storylines, anime offers something for every viewer, which might explain its rapid rise in popularity.
In fact, recent data reveals just how widespread anime culture has become, with different titles dominating in various U.S. states. The study conducted by SportsMillions delves into these regional preferences, breaking down the most popular anime by state based on Google search trends.
If you’ve been living under a rock (or a massive sea king), One Piece is undoubtedly one of the most influential anime ever made. It dominated search trends in states like California, New York, and Texas, among others. Its compelling storyline, intricate world-building, and memorable characters have kept it relevant for decades, and it’s no surprise that One Piece reigns supreme in 13 states. Whether you’re in a bustling metropolis or a quieter suburban area, chances are, One Piece has a dedicated following nearby.
The ninja legend Naruto continues to hold a special place in the hearts of anime lovers, ranking as the most popular in 10 states, especially in the Midwest and South. States like Ohio, Indiana, and Missouri are among the many places where fans still turn to Naruto’s high-energy battles and heartfelt moments. Despite being an older series, Naruto remains a staple in the anime community, with a fanbase that spans generations.
The post-apocalyptic series Attack on Titan has been a game-changer for anime, with its brutal take on humanity’s fight for survival. It resonates particularly well in Colorado, Massachusetts, and Maryland, where it ranks as the most popular anime. The anime’s complex themes of freedom, survival, and sacrifice hit home with viewers, making it a standout in states with a penchant for deep, narrative-driven series.
Visually stunning and emotionally gripping, Demon Slayer continues to captivate audiences across the U.S. It ranks first in states like Louisiana and New Mexico. The series’ gorgeous animation and heartfelt story have made it a fan favorite, particularly in areas where viewers appreciate the craftsmanship of anime. The show’s fast rise to popularity proves that newer anime can quickly dominate search trends if they strike the right chord with audiences.
If you’ve ever wished you could have superpowers, My Hero Academia is likely right up your alley. The series about young heroes training to save the world has captured the attention of viewers in states like Maine and West Virginia. Its mix of superhero action, school life, and character development makes it an easy favorite for those looking for a high-stakes, inspirational anime.
It’s no surprise that Dragon Ball Super continues to reign in states like Montana and North Dakota. This long-running franchise has solidified its place in anime history, and its strong presence in these states shows that, no matter how many years go by, Dragon Ball still packs a punch.
A psychological thriller with a supernatural twist, Death Note remains a standout in states like Hawaii and Vermont. Its gripping tale of moral ambiguity and high-stakes cat-and-mouse chases between genius minds has kept it relevant, despite newer competitors in the genre.
Jujutsu Kaisen has quickly gained traction as a modern favorite, particularly in Connecticut and Rhode Island, where it topped the anime charts. Known for its intense battles and relatable characters, the show’s popularity continues to grow, and these states are clearly in the midst of the anime’s ascension.
Another classic, Bleach claims the top spot in both Alaska and Delaware. With its action-packed sequences and memorable characters, Bleach still has a strong fanbase in these areas, keeping its place in the anime landscape.
While Re:Zero and One Punch Man only led in one state each (New Hampshire and Wyoming, respectively), both series have loyal fanbases that are passionate about their unique storylines and inventive approaches to anime.
Full ranking of the most popular anime in every state:
|
Most Popular Anime |
Number of States Where the Anime is Most Popular |
States Where the Anime is Most Popular |
|
One Piece |
13 |
Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington |
|
Naruto |
10 |
Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Wisconsin |
|
Attack on Titan |
7 |
Colorado, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oregon, Utah |
|
Demon Slayer |
5 |
Arkansas, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico |
|
My Hero Academia |
4 |
Idaho, Maine, Nebraska, West Virginia |
|
Dragon Ball Super |
3 |
Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota |
|
Death Note |
2 |
Hawaii, Vermont |
|
Jujutsu Kaisen |
2 |
Connecticut, Rhode Island |
|
Bleach |
2 |
Alaska, Delaware |
|
Re:Zero |
1 |
New Hampshire |
|
One Punch Man |
1 |
Wyoming |
Methodology
This study analyzed Google search trends for anime across all 50 U.S. states. By tallying the monthly search volume for each anime title over the past month, we identified which anime garnered the most interest in each state. The anime with the highest search volume in each state was designated as the most popular.
Source: Press Release
