Google Trends: Ranking The 50 States in America That Identify As Otaku From Least to Most (PART 1) 50-41

Posted on by

NOTE: This is Part 1 of The Article

Last year, I made an article that covered the ranking of all 50 states based on the popularity of anime from worst to best, on Google trends. As a result, that article was one of my very firsts. As I was starting, I noticed that although it received a positive fanfare among readers, I made quite a bit of mistakes in regard to the info and resources that I wrote in that article. In fact, I missed out on a lot of important info that should have been said during that time. Now, here I am with a new article of the same subject, but now added with a nicer layout, updated info, better research, and custom descriptions said by me that is based on my research.

The popularity of anime has grown incredibly for over the last decades. While the medium itself always had an American presence between the 1960s to the 1980s. However, it was not until the 1990s when the medium began to knockdown the mainstream audience thanks to the introduction of anime on children’s television channels. When the 2000s dawned, the popularity of anime increased only more tenfold thanks to the advancement of the internet and the availability of forums, websites, fan subs, and social media. Throughout the 2010s and 2020s, the medium has enjoyed unprecedented growth thanks to the rise of streams, social media, and more websites and forums that make it easier for otakus to access too. Now, anime has become so popular now that you can pretty much find fans of anime in the middle of nowhere. Even in those middle of nowhere places, goodies for otakus exist at every corner of the map, and all 50 states have anime conventions or some kind of ComicCons with anime and manga stuff located.

In my previous article, I used Google trends to see which state searches up on anime the most, and the results were interesting. However, instead, I wanted to see which state identifies most as otaku by simply seeing which state looks up the definition as the most. Not only that, but I will also be using sources and research backup to explain the possibility of the question on why the state is ranked on that number. This list, unlike the previous one, makes a lot more sense now, and some of the states that you will see ranked will probably surprise, and number 1 may surprise you the most. Also, unlike my previous article of the same topic which contained all 50 states in one article, instead, I have decided to publish separate articles by adding only 10 states in the article ranked from least to most. So that way, readers won’t be turned off by the horrific TL;DR issue, by having to scrolling through a long page with nothing but texts, and instead, enjoy reading the article with a moderate amount of reading and waiting in anticipation for the next article of the same topic. Without a further a do, let’s get started!

50. Wyoming

Nickname: The Equality State
Population: 587,803
Region: Mountain West, West Region
Capital: Cheyenne
Abbreviation: WY
Number of Conventions: 1 (as of 2024)
Number of shops: 7 (As of 2024)

First on this list is Wyoming, the first state from the West Coast. As the least populated state in the nation and one of the most empty in the country, Wyoming symbolically places last on not only the west region, but the entire list. The state of Wyoming isn’t just empty, but the equality state is also lacking in the validity of otaku resources. Formerly in the past, the state was one of the few that did not have an anime convention. The cons that are available in the equality state are only three conventions, Cheyenne Gaming Convention, Casper Comic Con, and Wyoming Pop Culture Con, both of which are only just conventions based on pop culture. Of course, anime, and manga merch also reside in those two conventions as well. Finally, that changed in 2024, with the equality state set to have its first anime convention called, Anime 307. A first time for Wyoming. Finally exiting the status of being one of the few states that did not host a dedicated anime and manga convention in the country. In fact, the future hosting of Anime 307 was met with so much excitement, that even the media outlets of Wyoming talked about it. On a more positive note, the state has a decent amount of shops that have anime and manga content, with at least 7 of them. Obviously, the state has no attractive tourist attractions for otakus. A possible reason for Wyoming’s low amount of otaku resources, comes down due to the state’s extremely low population, vastly empty majority, and perhaps a lack of interest and investment from fellow otakus both big and small groups.

Overall, Wyoming being ranked last on this list is a symbolic representation of the state’s reputation for its empty and low populated lifestyle. The state is slightly limited for otakus, and perhaps most Wyomingites will find themselves visiting other states with better resources for otakus. Nether the less, the opening of Anime 307 in Wyoming, should strongly indicate that even in the emptiest and most densely populated state. The shops also keep the state’s resource a float at least, and there seems to be a dedicated niche group that loves anime and manga as a strong passion. The beautiful passion of a Japanese subculture from the far east, that revolves around in depth love of Japanese animation and comics, is making its way here in Wyoming. There is no doubt that growth is in reach.

49. New Hampshire

Nickname: The Granite State
Population: 1,389 Million
Region: Northeast, East Region, New England
Capital: Manchester
Abbreviation: NH
Number of Conventions: 0 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 21 (As of 2024)

New Hampshire is the first state from the New England region and as well as the East Coast to be on this list. When compared to Wyoming, New Hampshire can be well regarded as a gigantic improvement in some parts, but even a downgrade in other parts. When compared to the rest of the other upcoming states on this list, the granite state ranks bottom, rightfully so. New Hampshire is strongly lacking in otaku resources. The granite state hosts four conventions, but only one convention that traditionally functions as the common ComiCon, and that’s Granite ComiCon. Take note that convention is mainly dedicated to general pop culture, which obviously includes anime and manga. Nevertheless, that means New Hampshire is one of the few states in the country that lacks a dedicated anime and manga convention. Unfortunately, it is unknown when New Hampshire will ever host a dedicated anime convention for otakus. In fact, most of the granite state’s closest anime conventions for otakus are located in Massachusetts, thus leaving New Hampshire as a VERY limited state for many otakus. On the bright side, When it comes to shops that have an arsenal of anime and manga goodies within, the state has an excellent amount of shops, in spite of its size and the absence of an anime convention. New Hampshire has no attractions for otakus, but neighboring states do fill the void. Conventions are lacking, but the amount of shops does save New Hampshire for at least being a decent state for otakus.

Overall, while New Hampshire does have a much larger population, the state is lackluster in the New England region when compared to it’s neighboring states. Despite 1 million, it seems like the granite state and most of its citizens don’t really have a knack for most stuff that’s all anime and manga or identifying as otaku in general. The state’s lack of anime convention will definitely bring in a strong sense of void for New Hampshire otakus. On the bright side, the existence of Granite Comicon does fill the void. Another positive is the state does have a fantastic amount of shops that continue the “feels good feeling” of collecting everything otaku. In spite of this, most New Hampshire otakus will find themselves visiting other neighboring northeast states with a much more vastly superior landscape for otakus. Mainly states like Massachusetts or New York. Nether the less, it’s an improvement.

48. South Carolina

Nickname: The Palmetto State
Population: 5,191 Million
Region: Southern, Deep South, Southeastern, East Region
Capital: Columbia
Abbreviation: SC
Number of Conventions: 7 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 48 (As of 2024)

South Carolina, the first state from the deep south and the south of America to be on this list. South Carolina’s low ranking on those label as otaku is considered a major shock, Despite boasting a good amount of resources for otakus in the Palmetto State. The state’s number of anime conventions for its size is quite the abundance compared to other states. To make things better for the Palmetto state, South Carolina hosts one of the most popular anime conventions in the country, and region, called, Anime Charleston feast. Considered the Magnum opus of the anime conventions in South Carolina, it is well known region wide, and nationwide. It also enjoys media coverage from media outlets in South Carolina. Of course, that’s not the only anime convention that is available in the palmetto state, but the state itself hosts a total of seven anime conventions. Some notable ones like incredible con, and Banzaicon are also well known names nationwide. Another amazing part is, it’s not just the anime conventions that keep South Carolina strong in resources. The amount of shops that have anime and manga that are available for otakus in the Palmetto state, is just unbelievable, with at least 48 of them. Truly a fantastic amount got a state like South Carolina. South Carolina has no tourist attractions for otakus, but it does have dedicated groups that further advance the otaku life in the state.

Overall, despite all of this, South Carolina ranks low on the list. The palmetto state enjoys having such of the resource and luxury, but most South Carolinian don’t recognize as being otaku. The state has a good variety of conventions for its size, and the shops located are just incredible in numbers for the South Carolinan otaku. Never mind the lack of tourist attractions for otakus, but at least aided by groups and events. Despite boasting a high population and hosting big name conventions, South Carolina only ranks 48 on the list, making it the least otaku state of the deep south and southern region. South Carolina is an excellent state to live for otakus, and it’s perhaps better than other neighboring states, but not much realize as being one… The north and bigger siblings, North Carolina, seems to have a bigger knack for identifying as otaku than South Carolina does.

47. Iowa

Nickname: The Hawkeye State
Population: 3,193 Million
Region: Midwestern, Plains
Capital: Des Moines
Abbreviation: IA
Number of Conventions: 4 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 18 (As of 2024)

Once upon a time, there was a well known store that was popular among all otaku, which included myself. That store was called, RightStuf, a video publisher and distributor that opened in 1987. Not only all things anime and manga, but even Asian entertainment in general. Where was it located and which state was home to RightStuf? That’s right, Iowa. Of course, RightStuf no longer exists, because Crunchyroll bought the company, and now resides in California, while being renamed to Crunchyroll store. It still exists in Iowa for otakus to see, but now the main service resides in Silicon Valley, California. Trivial info aside, Iowa is the first state from the Midwest and from the great plains to be on this list. In spite of its size and lifestyle, Iowa has a very good amount of resources available for otakus. In fact, the landscape is certainly in their favor. The Hawkeye State hosts anime conventions. Still, only four of them are anime conventions, and one of them is well known in this country. While there are three other listed anime conventions that are quite well known in the country. The Hawkeye State’s most notable anime convention, is The Animate! Des Moines. Iowa’s largest convention, and one of the most well known statewide and nationwide, and has attracted a large amount of visitors outside, while enjoying media coverage from media outlets in Iowa. The state also enjoys having a large amount of anime and manga shops located in the state, with at least eighteen of them. Very impressive for a state whose reputation is simply known for densely populated rural life. Owing to its reputation as a farming state, in spite of all this, Iowa still ranks low on those identifying as otaku.

In spite of its low ranking and small marketplace compared to other gigantic states, Iowa is a state that seems to have a lot of history with anime, manga and the otaku culture in general. Iowa’s landscape for otakus is just amazing. The state is home to having an excellent amount of anime conventions. For its size, it’s certain to keep otakus from both the state of Iowa, and from other states to enjoy spending their amount of time and hours doing all sorts of otaku fun. The amount of shops is great in size for the size of the state, and will have a lot of otaku having fun collecting stuff. The only downside is, despite such availability, many in the Hawkeye State don’t really consider themselves an otaku. Hopefully, perhaps one day, there will be a HUGE boom and explosion of more identifying as one.

46. Montana

Nickname: The Treasure State
Population: 1.104 million
Region: Northwestern, West Region
Capital: Helena
Abbreviation: MT
Number of Conventions: 1 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 8 (As of 2024)

Being one of the biggest states in mainland America, the state of Montana is extremely lackluster when it comes to resources for otaku. Its amount of resources available for otakus is atrociously low. As stated before, despite its big size, the state only hosts one anime convention, and apparently, the only anime convention that exists in the Treasure State, and that’s the OokiSoraCon. Nether the less, on the bright side, this anime con is known to be well known by many otakus in the state of Montana. It has also attracted quite a large amount of otakus in the state of Montana and even outside visitors. In fact, it’s so popular that it even enjoys having extensive media coverage from media outlets in the state of Montana. Montana’s other con is also a traditional comicon with some obvious resource of anime and manga stuff. Yet, aside from that, that’s all Montana has. If you thought that the Treasure State was weak in the anime convention scene, then sadly, the amount of shops for anime and manga located are also lacking badly, with just eight of them. While having only eight doesn’t sound like a small number, it certainly is when compared to other states, and even the states who are smaller, have more stuff for otaku than Montana do. Sadly, from all of this, it’s no accident on why Montana ranks low on the list.

Overall, while Montana ranks slightly higher when it comes to identifying as otaku, it’s still low when compared to others. The difficulty for otakus having to rely only on one anime convention in the state will definitely be a HUGE headache for otakus in The Treasure State. The existence of OokiSoraCon is a savior for otakus, and will absolutely keep Montana otakus invested. Montana has at least some anime and manga shops located, but far few in numbers. The sad truth is, nevertheless, otakus in Montana will very much have to rely visiting other states that have a much larger and superior amount of otaku resources for many in Montana. There also seems to be a lack of interest and investment for furthering the otaku market in the treasure state. Most in Montana lack interest for anime, manga, and the otaku culture in general. Hopefully, that will change soon.

45. Connecticut

Nickname: The Constitution State
Population: 3.606 Million
Region: Northeastern, East Region, New England
Capital: Hartford
Abbreviation: CT
Number of Conventions: 1 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 28 (As of 2024)

Introducing our second state from the New England region on this list, Connecticut. The Constitution state’s landscape for otakus, when compared to neighbors New Hampshire, is a decent improvement. But, that “decent improvement”, is partially aided by thanks to the fact that Connecticut does, in fact, have an anime convention. While the state has other comicons, it has one anime convention. It’s called ConnectiCon, opened in 2003. ConnectiCon is considered the hotspot of anime conventions in Connecticut, and not only is the convention popular instate, but also enjoys a wide variety of visitors from other states. Mainly, the northeast region, and especially its New England neighbors. The convention enjoys getting nice media coverage from media outlets in Connecticut, as big name figures from the anime and manga industry visit ConnectiCon. Oh, and if you think that’s all, then guess what? Nope. Connecticut is about to open its second anime convention this year, and it’s called Arisu Anime. Adding another double layer to the convention scenery in Connecticut. The amount of shops with anime and manga stuff in Connecticut is significant. At least 28 of them are located in the state, and for its small size, that’s actually a HUGE number, and some of them are exclusive shops that focus mainly on anime and manga. Overall, it’s logical to see why it’s ranked low on the list.

Overall, in spite of the strong otaku landscape in the state of Connecticut, The Constitution State’s continues the odd and strange theme of a state that ranks so low in those identifying as otaku. Yet, has an excellent and considerable amount of stuff for otakus in the New England state. The state is home to a very popular anime convention with another one soon opening, making it double fun for otakus in Connecticut. While that seems small, for the state’s size, that’s actually an exceptional amount for otakus. The number of shops located is high for otakus in Connecticut, and will keep those occupied in collecting more otaku goodies in the state. Despite all of this, the state ranks low compared to other states, and interest for those identifying as otaku to be low. Also, while there are good stuff for otakus in this state, no doubt that most otakus in Connecticut will be visiting other states like Massachusetts or New York for extra otaku spice. Growth in Connecticut is continuing, and won’t stop anytime soon.

44. Maine

Nickname: The Pine Tree State
Population: 1.372 Million
Region: New England, Northeast
Capital: Augsta
Abbreviation: ME
Number of Conventions: 3 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 10 (As of 2024)

Another state from the New England region, and the most eastern of the American map. For the state of the most eastern and for its size and reputation, Maine’s landscape for otakus is notably small, but nether the less, has some otaku stuff in store for otakus in Maine. One of the notable differences from New Hampshire, which has no anime convention, and Connecticut, which only has one anime convention, The Pine Tree State has 3 anime conventions located, Animaine, Going Merry Con, and PortconMaine. Another interesting is, Maine’s PortconMaine, is the biggest anime convention in Maine, and also one of the most well known in the New England region. The convention enjoys a large amount of visitors from instate, and visitors from neighboring New England states. Also, like most cons from other states, PortconMaine enjoys media coverage from media outlets in the state of Maine. While Maine’s anime convention scene is not the largest in the slightest, having two is at least a nice thing, especially when compared to other neighboring states of the region that only have one to none. Unfortunately, On the other hand, Maine’s number of shops that have anime and manga is slightly moderate, with only just ten of them. While that’s an improvement compared to other states with extremely low numbers, it’s not as high as it’s neighboring states, but some resource exists within at least.

Maine’s ranking, and it’s landscape for otakus very much continues the number. This all adds up to why Maine isn’t a super otaku state when compared to others. On a better note, the state definitely seems to recognize more as otaku than compared to the earlier states listed before, and more otaku than other New England neighbors New Hampshire, and Connecticut. Maine’s two anime conventions located are certainly a guarantee to keep Maine otakus occupied and invested with otaku fun everywhere. Although its shops are certainly not the biggest and largest amount in the region, it’s still good enough for Maine otakus to continue their fun investment of otaku goodies. Realistically, like the earlier neighboring states, otakus from Maine will find themselves relying more on their neighboring powerhouse states like Massachusetts, or to an extent, New York. Nether the less, growth is continuing in Maine.

43. Kentucky

Nickname: The Bluegrass State
Population: 4.509 Million
Region:Southern, East South-central
Capital: Frankfort
Abbreviation: KY
Number of Conventions: 8 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 35 (As of 2024)

Our first visit to the southern states on this list since South Carolina. Kentucky is the second southern state on this list and the first one not to be from the deep south. The state of Kentucky’s landscape for otakus is just excellent, and the amount of resources available for otakus in the Bluegrass State is marvelous for its size. One such example is the amount of conventions that are located in Kentucky, which has eight anime conventions. So far, in terms of anime conventions, that’s the highest on the list since starting with Wyoming. Kentucky’s anime convention scenery is grand, not only because they have so many anime conventions in the state, but Kentucky hosts one of the most famous anime conventions in America, and the southern region. The Frankfort Anime-Fest. The anime convention is so well known and popular among many, that it’s even referred to as, “the mecca of anime conventions” in the state of Kentucky. It’s so popular, that even the official government website of Frankfort, Kentucky, website acknowledges it as a powerful piece of tourism for the state of Kentucky. It is also known to be a well-known landmark for otakus in the state of Kentucky. It enjoys a strong number of attendees both instate, outer state, and even worldwide. Also, like the earlier conventions, the Frankfort Anime-Fest enjoys extensive media coverage from media outlets in Kentucky. Elsewhere, it hosts the other seven anime conventions, as mentioned before. Kentucky’s anime convention scene is one of the best in the country, and it’s very impressive for a state like Kentucky. Kentucky’s amount of shops with anime and manga stuff located is also grand and full of many. With at least 35 of them located, and even some exclusive ones that specialize in anime and manga. That’s just amazing for a state like Kentucky.

In spite of all the otaku greatness in the Bluegrass State, Kentucky doesn’t rank that high, as it still hangs around the low 40s on this list. Aside from that, Kentucky is absolutely fantastic for otakus. The 26 conventions, of which six of them are anime conventions, plus the famous Frankfort Anime-Fest, are guaranteed to keep otakus from the Bluegrass State heavily invested in having fun with anime conventions. Not only that, but the fact that Kentucky borders with other states that have a good amount of anime conventions is another bonus plus sign for them. Also, the amount of shops in Kentucky are yet a guarantee for otakus to continue their investment of buying up and collecting all otaku goodies. One of the most amazing things about this is, this is Kentucky, and perhaps it symbolizes a little sign that the south seems to have some sort of strong love for anime and manga. Growth is infinite in Kentucky, and will continue to do so.

42. Wisconsin

Nickname: The Badger State
Population: 5.896 Million
Region: Midwestern
Capital: Madison
Abbreviation: WI
Number of Conventions: 7 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 53 (As of 2024)

Our first visit to the Midwest since Iowa, Wisconsin’s landscape for otakus isn’t just great, it’s GRAND, and after Kentucky, the Badger state has the most anime conventions since we started this list with Wyoming. Firstly, Wisconsin’s anime convention scenery is unbelievable and grand. Although there are only seven anime conventions, they are well known in the country and in the state of Wisconsin. Like other states, Wisconsin is home to a large and well known anime convention, called Anime Milwaukee. The largest anime convention in Wisconsin, and one of the largest anime conventions in the country, and it is well known by many in the state of Wisconsin, its neighboring Midwestern neighbors, and even enjoys some attention internationally. Anime Milwaukee enjoys having a large amount of attendees, both domestic, and internationally. Anime Milwaukee is not only popular, but like the earlier anime conventions from the other state mentioned, Anime Milwaukee enjoys media coverage from local media outlets in Wisconsin. Oh, and you if you think that’s good enough, then just wait till you hear the amount of shops the Badger State has. It has 53 shops with anime and manga stuff located in the state of Wisconsin. To make it even better, some of them are anime and manga exclusive. Wisconsin has a fine list indeed.

Overall, despite Wisconsin boasting an exceptional arsenal of otaku resources, the Badger State seems to show little care for those identifying as otaku. Nether the less, otakus from Wisconsin will no doubt be boastfully happy to know that the Badger State is home to a powerful and vastly grand otaku landscape that many will appreciate, and even some will envy. Wisconsin’s landscape for otakus, since starting with this list, is the best, and one of the most advanced in the country. Many Wisconsin otakus will be grateful for the amount of conventions located in the state, and the best part is there are 6 of them. They also have the well known and famous Anime Milwaukee, which is guaranteed to keep them having a lot of fun and investing their otaku time in those conventions. The amount of shops located are so grand that many of them will enjoy having so much options everywhere to continue their investment of collecting those otaku goodies. The best part is, growth is continuing.

41. Alabama

Nickname: The Yellowhammer State
Population: 5.04 Million
Region: South, Deep South
Capital: Montgomery
Abbreviation: AL
Number of Conventions: 7 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 50 (As of 2024)

Sweet home Alabama! Our second state from the deep south and the first since South Carolina on the list. Yes, sweet home it is indeed. Unfortunately, Alabama does not have the best reputation in the country, and is sadly ranked the worst on many rankings in the country. Being only ranked 41 on this list is not the biggest example, but definitely not the highest either. Nonetheless, negativity aside, this is of the few times that our beloved Yellowhammer State does not rank the worst in something. Not only that, but when it comes to the landscape for otakus in Alabama, the state actually defies the expectation of many, and enjoys having a fantastic amount of otaku resources available for otakus in the state. In fact, Alabama’s otaku landscape can be pretty much described as grand and full of otaku resources left and right. Alabama has 7 anime conventions. That’s actually more than richer and famous states in this country, and is incredible for the state’s size. Amazingly, Alabama is home to Kami-Con, the biggest and most famous anime convention in Alabama, and is also one of the biggest in the country, one of the biggest in the deep south, and southern America in general. Kami-Con isn’t just an ordinary anime con, but a stunning anime convention beloved for many otakus in Alabama. There’s a reason why many outside come to visit. Like most cons, it enjoys media coverage from media outlets in Alabama. Also, that’s not all, the state enjoys having 50 shops with anime and manga stuff located, and even better, a lot of exclusive anime and manga shops in the state. It just can’t get any better, right? Sweet home otaku Alabama! That’s for sure!

Overall, as stated before, Alabama’s ranking is not the best, and sadly enforces the poor stereotype of Alabama always bottoming out at everything. On the positive side, you can’t deny that even for a state like Alabama, the state’s landscape for otakus is just simply amazing. Not only does the state have eight anime conventions, but they also enjoy the hosting of Kami-Con. While its neighboring states don’t really have the best amount of anime conventions at their arsenal, the state itself fills the void for not only those from Alabama, but neighboring southern states as well. The amount of conventions located in the state are for sure to keep many Alabama otakus happy, occupied, and invested. The high amount of shops makes it easily great for them to continue their investment of collecting otaku goodies. The best part is, potential exist in the Yellowhammer State, and the otaku culture continues to grow in Alabama. How awesome is it?

____________________________________________________________________________

Total Number of States From Their Regions:

Northeastern: 3

Midwestern: 3

Southern: 3

Western: 2

Are you from any of these 10 states? Did I make any errors or missed out on some important info? Leave a comment and let me know! Thanks for reading! If you can, please like and share this article with any otaku who’s American. Give your reaction if your state was on this top 10 list. Stay tuned for part 2.

See also:

Discover more from Animangemu

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.