Beer Interest in America: Wisconsin Leads the Rankings

Beer has a significant history in the United States and was popular in colonial America. Its cultural influence continues, and recent research has identified which states are most interested in beer.

According to consumer research firm Innerbody Research, Wisconsin ranks as America’s top beer capital based on Google Trends data from the past year. The Badger State has topped the rankings for two consecutive years. Innerbody Research has dubbed the Midwest as ‘America’s beer belt,’ with states like Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Missouri ranking high. All Midwest states are within the top 20 states interested in beer.

Historical Beer Culture

“The Midwest has a deep beer culture rooted in historic regional production and revitalized by craft brewers recently,” said Bart Watson, president of the Brewers Association.

Wyoming follows Wisconsin, with Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa also achieving high interest scores. However, Pacific coast states like Alaska, Washington, California, Oregon, and Hawaii showed lower beer-related interest.

Influence of Regional Loyalty

Regional loyalty to specific beer brands remains significant.

“A brand’s local dominance is often based on its historic market entry advantage,” said Jean-Pierre H. Dubé, a marketing professor at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

For example, Miller remains popular in Wisconsin due to its early market entry, while Budweiser has a similar standing in St. Louis. Samuel Adams, launched in Boston, became the first successful craft brewer with national distribution.

Leading Beer Brands

Michelob Ultra led in search interest among beer brands, particularly in Alabama, Nevada, and Oklahoma. Watson noted the popularity of light beers due to their lower calories and alcohol content compared to other adult beverages.

Stella Artois was favored in many states, despite being viewed as premium in the U.S., different from its reputation in Belgium.

Dubé’s research indicates that beer exposure at legal drinking age influences long-term preferences, with some favoring local favorites like Miller, Budweiser, and Samuel Adams.

Sales Insights

Beer Marketer Insights reported Michelob Ultra as the leading beer by sales volume, surpassing Bud Light and Modelo Especial. Watson suggested that search data indicates interest and emerging trends more than strength or sales of brands.

“Sales maps would look different. Ultimately, beer should be fun, best enjoyed with friends and family,” Watson noted.

Teresa Mull contributes to Fox News Digital’s Lifestyle team as a freelancer.