Pizza Hut Tops Survey as America’s Favorite Pizza Chain

A recent YouGov survey of more than 44,000 diners across the U.S. names Pizza Hut as the favorite national pizza chain. Conducted between March 2025 and February 2026, the survey highlights Pizza Hut’s popularity with 19.1% of participants favoring its taste over other fast-food pizza competitors. Domino’s followed closely with 17.1%, while Papa Johns, Little Caesars, and Marco’s Pizza rounded out the top five.

Kenton Barello, a senior vice president at YouGov, notes that Pizza Hut’s longstanding presence in the American dining scene, especially among older consumers, contributes to its strong performance. He points out the nostalgia factor as a key element in Pizza Hut’s enduring appeal.

The survey results indicate that despite changing dining habits and economic challenges, legacy pizza chains maintain their appeal. Consumers continue to value taste, convenience, and brand recognition, even as they face increased competition from frozen pizzas and independent pizzerias. In 2024, frozen pizza sales reached approximately $7 billion, reflecting consumers’ shift toward cost-effective dining options.

Barello highlights the importance of independent pizzerias. Over one in five respondents preferred local or regional pizza establishments over national chains, suggesting a strong preference for local flavors and experiences.

YouGov’s broader report analyzed consumer attitudes toward various restaurant types, revealing Pizza Hut’s dominance in the fast-food pizza category. Respondents rated Pizza Hut highly for quality and value, although many still favored regional pizzerias.

Pizza Hut was established in Wichita, Kansas, in 1958 and now has nearly 20,000 locations across more than 100 countries, with its headquarters in Plano, Texas. Domino’s, founded shortly after in Ypsilanti, Michigan, has more than 22,300 locations worldwide.

The survey sheds light on consumer loyalty and preferences in the highly competitive pizza market. It underscores that marketing visibility, emotional connection, and consistent quality are vital in earning consumer trust and preference.