Fandoms aren't just hobbies, pictures on screen, or words in a book—they’re thriving communities where people connect through shared passions for stories, characters, and worlds that spark their imagination.
From blockbuster TV shows to immersive gaming franchises, fandoms shape how pop culture influences our daily lives.
But outside of your personal circles, have you ever wondered if you're alone in your fandom interests?
If so, we analyzed Google search trends from the past year, focusing on fandoms in the fantasy and sci-fi genres; beloved stories and worlds that have inspired countless fans across the country.
The results showcase not only the nation’s collective obsessions but also the unique tastes that define each region. Whether you’re curious about your state’s favorite or looking for a new fandom to explore, this list has you covered.
Across the United States, some fandoms stand out as clear favorites, capturing the hearts of millions.
Leading the pack is Game of Thrones, which ranks as the top choice in 23 states. Its epic storylines, memorable characters, and dramatic twists have kept fans hooked, even years after the series finale. With the success of its spinoff House of the Dragon and the upcoming release of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight, expected to premiere this year, the world of Westeros continues to captivate audiences.
Beyond Game of Thrones, other fandoms are just as exciting and show how unique each state’s interests can be.
Naruto, a popular anime about friendship, perseverance, and chasing your dreams, is the top searched in Georgia, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Another anime hit, Attack on Titan, takes the lead in Maryland and Virginia with its action-packed story of survival and bravery.
Video game fans are also well-represented.
Minecraft, a game where you can build anything you imagine, is a favorite in South Dakota and Utah. Over in California, League of Legends is the most popular, showing the state’s love for competitive esports and gaming.
Classic franchises continue to inspire fans, too.
Dragon Ball, a long-running anime filled with exciting battles and powerful characters, leads in Delaware, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island. Meanwhile, Pokémon, one of the most beloved franchises of all time, is the favorite in Hawaii, a fitting choice for a place full of adventure and natural beauty.
Methodology
To determine the most popular fandom in every state, we started with a list of 35 of the most popular sci-fi and tech-related fandoms worldwide ranging in categories from Books & Movie Adaptations, TV Shows & Movie Franchises, Anime & Manga, and Gaming. By examining the relative search interest for each fandom, we were able to determine which terms were most prominently searched in every state over the past year (Dec 2023-Dec 2024).
This study highlights the rich diversity within fandom culture and the unique preferences that vary across the U.S. By uncovering the most popular fandoms in each state, we gain a deeper understanding of how entertainment brings people together and fosters a sense of connection.
At iD Tech, we’re all about fostering that same passion through our tech courses. Whether you’re into coding, gaming, or creating the next big fandom universe, we’re here to equip kids and teens with the skills you need to thrive.
Check out our Minecraft classes, coding courses, and other exciting topics in the STEM world, where students can turn their interests into skills that can shape their futures.