Beer has a long-standing history in the United States, being a staple beverage since colonial times. Its cultural influence is still significant today, and recent research reveals which states have the highest interest in beer.
Wisconsin: America’s Beer Capital
According to consumer research firm Innerbody Research, Wisconsin holds the top spot for beer interest based on Google Trends data. This marks the second consecutive year for Wisconsin as the leader. The Midwest earns the moniker “America’s beer belt” with Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Missouri ranking in the top ten. Every Midwestern state features in the top twenty.
“The Midwest has a historic beer culture tied to regional production and craft brewers,” said Bart Watson from the Brewers Association.
Midwestern Dominance
Wyoming takes second place in search interest for beer. Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa follow in third, fourth, and fifth places, respectively. States along the Pacific coast, including Alaska, Washington, California, Oregon, and Hawaii, show lower search interest and rank in the bottom ten.
Regional loyalty to specific beer brands remains robust. Jean-Pierre H. Dubé from the University of Chicago explains that a brand’s local dominance often relies on historic entry advantages. For example, Miller is dominant in Wisconsin, while Budweiser holds sway in St. Louis due to early market entry.
Popular Beer Brands
Michelob Ultra leads in search interest among all analyzed beer brands, particularly in Alabama, Nevada, and Oklahoma. Watson notes the growing consumer preference for light beers with lower calories and alcohol by volume (ABV). This trend highlights the increasing interest in attributes like low-carb beers.
Stella Artois ranks as the most popular beer in multiple states, including Arizona, Florida, and New York. Despite being perceived as premium in the U.S., the brand holds a different reputation in Belgium, its home market.
“Hometown favorites influence beer preference,” Dubé said. “Millennials exposed to national brands at age 21 tend to continue choosing them.”
Trends and Insights
Beer Marketer Insights reported Michelob Ultra as the top-selling beer by volume, surpassing Bud Light and Modelo Especial. Watson implies that search interest may not always reflect sales but indicates emerging interests and brand strength.
“A sales map differs vastly,” Watson stated. “Beer is about enjoyment, best shared with friends and family.”
Teresa Mull, of the Lifestyle team at Fox News Digital, contributed to this article.
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