Google Trends: Ranking The 50 States in America That Identify As Otaku From Least to Most (PART 3) 30-21

Posted on by

NOTE: This is Part 3 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.

Continuing on from 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 to the article ranked from least to most. So that way, readers won’t be turned off by the horrific TL;DR issue, by 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!

30. Pennsylvania

Nickname: The Keystone State
Population: 12.96 Million
Region: Northeastern
Capital: Harrisburg
Abbreviation: PA
Number of Conventions: 13 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 65 (As of 2024)

Next on this list is a state bordering Ohio. It’s none other than The Keystone State, known as Pennsylvania. Our first state from the northeastern region, that’s not part of the New England region, to be on this list. Also, this is our first visit to the entire northeast region of any state since Vermont (rank 38). Pennsylvania’s landscape for otakus is undoubtedly one of the best in the country, and arguably the best in the region. Pennsylvania boasts the most anime conventions in the entire Northeastern region of America. At least 13 of them are located in The Keystone State. On another added note, Pennsylvania has the most anime conventions in this list since starting with Wyoming at rank 50. One of the notable things about Pennsylvania’s otaku scene is the hosting of Tekko. It is the largest anime convention in Pennsylvania. It is also known as one of the largest anime conventions in America. Additionally, it is one of the largest in the Northeastern Atlantic region. It was first inaugurated in 2003. It remains popular to this day. It attracts a large number of attendees from both in-state and out-of-state. Also, it should be noted that big name figures from the anime and manga industry have attended this anime convention. Tekko is very popular. It receives extensive media coverage from media outlets in the state of Pennsylvania. Another amazing part about this is that’s not it. Pennsylvania has other big name anime conventions like Zenkaicon, PuchiCon Pa, Natsukashii Con, and Shikkaricon. These anime cons are very popular. They attract strong attendance from both in-state and out-of-state enthusiasts. Also, wait, there’s more! Pennsylvania has a whopping amount of 65 shops with anime and manga goodies. The best part is, there are some exclusive shops that only have anime and manga goodies. The otaku vibes in Pennsylvania are extremely strong. It can be considered one of the most advanced states for otakus.

Overall, although, Pennsylvania ranks last on those identifying being otaku in the Northeastern region. It ranks much better than other states. It ranks far higher than most of the states in the New England region. It also outperforms other states that have the same GDP, population, and size. Pennsylvania has many anime conventions. They offer guaranteed entertainment for otakus in Pennsylvania who are looking to invest their time. The best part is the state hosts a major anime convention. This event will definitely keep otakus in Pennsylvania engaged with investment and various activities. Another great part about this is Pennsylvania has plenty of other anime conventions. Otakus in Pennsylvania have a plethora of options. The shops, although not the biggest, still give a good choice for otakus in The Keystone State. They offer otaku goodies to invest in. Pennsylvania’s landscape for otakus is truly an amazing thing. As the anime and manga market continue to grow in America, the market in Pennsylvania will also expand. With growth happening each year, there are no signs of it stopping anytime soon. Anime and Manga continues the greatness in Pennsylvania.

29. Massachusetts

Nickname: The Bay State
Population: 6.8875 Million
Region: New England, Northeastern
Capital: Boston
Abbreviation: MA
Number of Conventions: 4 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 75 (As of 2024)

Here we have Massachusetts. Known as the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Bay State’s ranking is our first visit to the New England region since Vermont’s ranking, which was rank 38. Massachusetts is the most populated state in the New England region. It is also the wealthiest due to its GDP. Furthermore, it is one of the wealthiest in the country. Massachusetts’s landscape for otakus is by far the best of any in the entire New England region. The Bay State only has a total of 4 anime conventions located in the state of Massachusetts. This makes it the state with the most anime conventions in the New England region. It is also one of the states with the most conventions in the entire Northeast region. Although much lower than compared to other states that have a larger anime convention scene, one should not be fooled. The amount perfectly matches with the size and population of the state. That contributes to Massachusetts’s urbanized landscape. Its strong transportation availability complements this feature. This combination should reassure all otakus in the New England region that Massachusetts is the best for them. Finally, the most notable part about Massachusetts’s otaku landscape is that it hosts Anime Boston. This is one of the most popular and well-known anime conventions in the country. It is a gigantic and popular anime convention in Massachusetts and the entire New England and Northeast region. It boasts a high number of attendees both from the state and outside. The anime con is so popular that local media outlets give it extensive media coverage. Even the government of Massachusetts acknowledges it as an important tourist attraction for visitors from elsewhere. It was first inaugurated in 2003. Anime Boston remains as popular today. Even big name figures from the anime and manga industry in Japan have attended it. Other notable anime cons from the state include Fan Expo Boston, PopCult Anime Con, and Another Anime Convention. Oh, and that’s not it. The number of anime and manga shops located in Massachusetts is insanely great. The Bay State has a total of 75 shops located that specialize in anime and manga. There is no doubt that Massachusetts is the king of otakus in the New England region.

Overall, There is no doubt that Massachusetts is among one of the best states to be an otaku. Massachusetts has a lot to offer for otakus. It ranks highly, yet surprisingly does not rank the highest in the New England region. It ranks second. Typically, you would expect a state like Massachusetts to rank in the top 10. If not, it would at least be closest to the late 10s in the 20. We all have to acknowledge the excellence of Massachusetts for otakus. None the less, we must accept that it is indeed one of the best states. Although the state is only home to four conventions, it has a widespread amount of comicons. That should be enough for otakus to enjoy the arsenal of The Bay State. This success is due to its small land mass. Easy access to transportation allows one to move easily from place to place. Otakus in Massachusetts gain from their comfort in the state. They are also aided by neighboring states like New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut. The whopping 75 shops located in Massachusetts are a guarantee for otakus in The Bay State region. They stay heavily invested in spending on otaku goodies. Massachusetts is small, but it offers high availability. This means otakus in Massachusetts will have everything they need at the palm of their hand. The anime and manga market in Massachusetts is strong. It continues to grow and shows no signs of stopping. For many otaku in Massachusetts, this state is definitely of the best for them.

28. Oklahoma

Nickname: The Sooner State
Population: 3.987 Million
Region: Southwest Region
Capital: Oklahoma City
Abbreviation: OK
Number of Conventions: 10 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 54 (As of 2024)

Next stop is Oklahoma, a return to the south for the first time since Louisiana (Rank 36). Typically, middle power states known for rural industries lack a grand landscape for otakus. Yet, that’s not the case with Oklahoma. In a good way, the Sooner State defies expectations with its strong arsenal for otakus living there. Some states have a more advanced GDP, population, and reputation. Nonetheless, down-to-earth, humble Oklahoma beats some of them. Indeed, it all makes sense. Oklahoma has an excellent landscape for otakus and can pretty be described as a state with much otaku growth. The Sooner State hosts 10 anime conventions. This makes it one of the few states to have more than 10 anime conventions. That is a VERY impressive amount. It is actually a lot more compared to other states that are more popular and richer in GDP. For Oklahoma, that doesn’t matter at all. Actually, Oklahoma leads southern states with 8 anime conventions. This number is the highest since South Carolina’s 9 conventions in an earlier ranking. The state not only hosts an excellent size of anime conventions. It also hosts one of the biggest anime conventions in the country. The biggest one in the state is known as Tokyo OK, located in Tulsa Oklahoma. This family-friendly anime con was first inaugurated in 2008. It remains Oklahoma’s largest anime convention. It continues to enjoy a large number of attendees both in-state and out-of-state. The anime convention receives extensive media coverage from local media outlets in Oklahoma. It continues to be well known by many in the state and the rest of the country. Other notable anime cons in Oklahoma include Anime Oklahoma, OkiCon, and Anime Torii Con. Oh, and I’m not done yet. Oklahoma has a large number of anime and manga shops. This is yet another fine picture that will please many, as the state is home to 54 anime shops. That is yet another excellent amount for otakus in Oklahoma.

Overall, Oklahoma is can be considered another excellent state for otakus when it comes to it’s landscape. As a matter of fact, Oklahoma is one of the best states for otakus in the southern United States. The Sooner State ranks much higher compared to other neighboring states in both the south and the Midwest. Several factors contribute to this. The number of anime conventions is high. Aided by the state’s size and overall landscape, it’s 100% favorable for otakus in Oklahoma. The anime conventions are excellent for otakus in The Sooner State. They can stay active and invested in doing all activities otaku. Having a big anime convention in Oklahoma guarantees that the state remains great for otakus. Participating in a famous anime convention in Oklahoma is a significant achievement for otakus. Many anime and manga shops assure otakus keep investing in goodies. They spend time on other otaku activities. Another huge plus is, Texas is next door which only makes it better for Oklahoma. Overall, the anime and manga market will continue to grow for Oklahoma and potential is infinite in The Sooner State.

27. Michigan

Nickname: The Great Lake State
Population: 10.05 Million
Region: Midwestern
Capital: Lansing
Abbreviation: MI
Number of Conventions: 8 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 65 (As of 2024)

Here we have another state from the Midwest, and it’s none other than Michigan. Also known as The Great Lake State. Interestingly, since we started with the top 50 with Wyoming, the Midwest has dominated many of these rankings. Michigan is definitely one of them. Michigan is the first state on this list with separate land due to its size. This is because the lake is a part of Michigan. Known for its auto industry, Michigan is part of the Midwest and the great lakes. Its landscape for otakus is one of the best in the nation. It is also one of the best in the region. Michigan is home to at least 8 anime conventions. This fact makes it one of the few states with more than 5 anime conventions. It also has the second most anime conventions in the Midwest, behind Illinois. Most notably, Michigan is home to Youmacon. It was first inaugurated in 2005. Youmacon is among the biggest anime conventions in Michigan. It is also one of the biggest in America. It is VERY well known among otakus in America and worldwide. Youmacon enjoys a large amount of attendance both in state and out of state. It also benefits from extensive media coverage by local media outlets. Amazingly, this anime con is located in Detroit, Michigan. The city is sadly known for suffering from constant decline and economic and social issues. None the less, it has enjoyed a recent revival in recent years. Youmacon’s two-decade existence proves that even in cities like Detroit, nothing halts the otaku vibes. Aside from that, other notable anime cons in Michigan include, Otaku U, Almacon, and Anime Park. Michigan also has a VERY sizable amount of anime and manga shops located. The Great Lake State has a total of 65 shops located that specialize in anime and manga. That is VERY grand for a state like Michigan. It is impressive considering its size and the separate border due to the lake. For many otaku in Michigan, That should definitely be called an A+.

Overall, There is no doubt that Michigan is definitely one of the best states to be an otaku. Michigan stands out as one of the best places for otakus in the Midwest. Its successful otaku landscape supports this claim. This landscape guarantees satisfaction for many otakus in The Great Lakes State. Michigan hosts a good number of anime conventions. This is enough for many otaku to invest time in the state’s otaku playgrounds. Perhaps the most important thing for otaku in Michigan is knowing they have a very large anime convention. It’s not just large in the state but also among the largest in the country. For many otaku in America, Youmacon is considered one of the hotpots of otaku travel here in America. Michigan has many anime and manga shops. These shops keep many otaku in The Great Lake State occupied. They stay heavily invested in buying up all the otaku goodies and doing activities. Anime and manga are becoming more popular among otakus in Michigan. It’s no wonder why Michigan ranks high compared to other states. The Great Lake State is growing for many otakus in Michigan. There are no signs of it stopping anytime soon.

26. Georgia

Nickname: The Peach State
Population: 10.8 Million
Region: Deep South, South, Southeastern
Capital Atlanta
Abbreviation: GA
Number of Conventions: 16 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 72 (As of 2024)

Say hello to Georgia! Aka, The Peach State and our visit to the Deep South since Louisiana (Rank 36). Georgia is the highest ranked state on this list to be from the deep south. Ever heard of a saying from an old school that all people across Georgia recognize? “Georgia On My Mind”. Indeed, and wanna know who else is on the minds of Georgia? The otakus living in Georgia. That’s for sure! For The Peach State, the otaku culture of anime and manga are on it’s mind too! Georgia has a remarkable landscape for otakus. It stands out prominently in The Peach State. The state is also among the best for otakus in the country. Georgia is home to 16 anime conventions in the state. That is the most of any state in the list since starting with Wyoming back at number 50. Georgia has the most anime conventions in the deep south. It ranks third in the southern region. Georgia uniquely hosts more than one big anime convention. This is a privilege in the Deep South and among all southern US states. Few other states from this region can claim this. Georgia’s most notable anime convention, is Anime Weekend Atlanta. This anime con is Georgia’s biggest anime convention. It is also one of the biggest in the country. It is well known in America and the southern region. The anime con was first inaugurated in 1995. This made Georgia one of the few states to have an anime convention before the 21st century. It is also one of the oldest anime conventions in America. Additionally, it is the second oldest anime convention in the south behind Texas’s A-Kon anime convention. This anime con is among the largest in America. It attracts a large number of attendees from both in-state and out-of-state. Especially those neighboring the state of Georgia. The popularity of Anime Weekend Atlanta is tremendous. Even famous names from the anime and manga industry have attended. Other notable anime conventions in Georgia include Augusta Anime Feast. Another is MomoCon. Lastly, there is the Savannah Animazing & Video Game Expo. That’s not it. Georgia is also home to having a whopping amount of at least 72 anime shops located in the state. That is a very high amount for a state like Georgia. The large number of anime cons and shops signifies Georgia’s prominence. It truly earns the title of the king of the deep south for everything otaku.

Overall, there is no doubt that Georgia’s ranking is no accident at all. The Peach State’s high ranking is symbolized by its insane otaku landscape. This landscape can definitely be considered one of the best in the nation. Georgia hosts a high number of anime conventions, with at least 16 located in the state. As stated before, that is the most of any state in the deep south. It is also the third largest in the southern US regions. This should definitely guarantee otakus stay heavily invested in otaku activity in Georgia. Georgia otakus have another huge win. They have one of the biggest anime conventions located in the state. That’s Anime Weekend Atlanta. Not just a big anime convention, but one of the biggest, and one of the oldest in the country. The landscape for otakus in Georgia benefits from the presence of the 72 anime and manga shops. That should be otakus in Georgia invest otaku goodies. For many in Georgia, otakus have one of the best luxuries in the state for everything anime and manga. They have a HUGE anime con and shows that Georgia’s anime and manga market is far more better than expected. Anime and manga continue to grow. It’s no wonder why Georgia ranks high on this list. There are NO signs of stopping whatsoever. Anime and manga is on Georgia’s mind… That’s for sure!

25. Missouri

Nickname: The Show-Me State
Population: 6.168 Million
Region: Midwestern
Capital: Jefferson City
Abbreviation: MO
Number of Conventions: 6 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 88 (As of 2024)

The Midwest strikes again! That’s right my fellow otakus! Next on this list is Missouri, also known as The Show-Me State. Missouri is a notable powerhouse in the Midwestern region of America. It is also known for its famous history. Notably, the state’s otaku landscape, is another example of Missouri’s brilliance. In fact, Missouri is described as an excellent state for otakus in America. It is one of the best states for otakus from the Midwest. Now, although there are a moderate amount of anime conventions, with only 6 of them. It’s not the most when compared to other Midwestern states like Ohio, Illinois, and Michigan. Nevertheless, it’s still a decent amount. It is certainly better than in other states that have just one anime convention or none at all. Another notable aspect of Missouri’s anime con scene, is the state itself hosts Anime St Louis. It is Missouri’s biggest anime con. It is also one of the most famous in America. It was first inaugurated in 2005 and continues to stay strong to this day. It is one of the most popular anime conventions in the country. All otakus in the state of Missouri know it well. Many anime cons, including this one, enjoy a large attendance. Visitors come from both in the state and out of state. The anime con also enjoys receiving extensive media coverage from local media outlets in the state. Other notable conventions include Missouri Anime Fest. Additionally, conventions like St Louis Anime Fest are significant. Another is Collect-A-Kon Kansas City. A major factor in Missouri’s otaku landscape is the number of shops specializing in anime and manga. These shops are none other than the amount of shops located that specialize in anime and manga. With at least a WHOPPING 88 of them located in The Show-Me State. That is just amazing. In fact, that number is actually one of the largest anime in the country and exceeded 70. It is the second highest on this list after Wyoming. Missouri is also the second highest state in the Midwestern region, behind Illinois. It surpasses Ohio by just 1 shop. That is stunning and amazing for a state like Missouri.

Overall, Missouri’s anime convention scene is moderate compared to other wealthier and more famous states. Yet, the landscape for otakus is certainly impressive. It is indeed better than that in other states. Missouri’s ranking is no surprise or an accident. The state’s otaku landscape is one of the better ones in the country. Many things aid this for otakus in The Show-Me State. Missouri has 6 anime conventions. This ensures many otakus will invest time in engaging in otaku activities. Another notable pros to Missouri’s anime convention scenery is their big anime convention. Access to Anime St Louis, Missouri’s biggest anime convention, is a big win for otakus in The Show-Me State. Nonetheless, that isn’t it. They are bordered with states that also have great otaku landscape, like Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota, and Indiana. Missouri also boasts having one of the largest amounts of anime and manga shops in the country. There are 82 shops, as earlier mentioned. This will certainly keep Missouri otakus HEAVILY invested in buying up the otaku goodies. Missouri’s anime and manga market continue to grow. In the Midwestern region, Missouri stands out. It will keep growing and sustain the otaku vibes strong in The Show-Me State.

24. North Carolina

Nickname: The Old North State
Population: 10.55 Million
Region: Southeastern, South, East Region
Capital: Raleigh
Abbreviation: NC
Number of Conventions: 12 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 100 (As of 2024)

Next up on this list is North Carolina. Aka the The Old North State that resides in the Southern US region. As you can see, North Carolina’s ranking is far higher than it’s south sibling South Carolina. Among the Carolina siblings, North Carolina is bigger and more passionate about those identifying as otaku. The anime and manga market is stronger there. North Carolina’s landscape for otakus is just like much of the populated and wealthy states that are above the average. It boasts an otaku landscape that perfectly fits the bill for North Carolina otakus. With at least 12 of them located. That’s 5 more than neighbors South Carolina. This positioning makes North Carolina one of the few states in the southern region. It has more than 10 anime conventions in a state located in the southern region. Interestingly, unlike most of the other states, no single anime convention in North Carolina stands out as the biggest. North Carolina has multiple anime conventions. These anime conventions in The Old North State are equal in size. Still, if we discuss the most popular anime convention in North Carolina, it’s the famous Animazement. This anime convention was first inaugurated in 1998. This places North Carolina among the few states in the country. They had an anime convention inaugurated before the 21st century. It is also one of the most popular anime conventions in America. It’s so popular that it enjoys extensive media coverage from local media outlets in North Carolina. Other notable anime conventions in North Carolina are Animate Raleigh, Ashville Anime Fest, and Ichibancon. These anime cons as mentioned before are popular anime conventions in the state of North Carolina. The anime and manga shops in North Carolina are undoubtedly some of the best in the country. The Old North State is home to at least 100 anime shops. That is a jaw breaking number and one of the largest number of anime shops available in a state. Not only do North Carolina’s 100 anime shops make it one of the few states with more than 100 shops. Starting with Wyoming, North Carolina is the first state on this list to exceed 100 anime shops. This statistic places them with the third-largest number of anime shops in the southern region. They have far more shops than their southern sibling, South Carolina. Truly an amazing feat for a state like North Carolina.

Overall, North Carolina’s landscape for otakus in The Old State is no doubt one of the best in America. Compared to other states in the Southern region, you consider North Carolina a magnum opus of the American South. Key to North Carolina’s strong otaku landscape, is the well and excellent amount of anime conventions located. 12 of them stands out as a great number for The Old State. Partially, another reason is that North Carolina uniquely features anime conventions of equal size. This is a major difference for otakus in North Carolina, as other states usually have just one as the largest. So there is no doubt that North Carolina’s anime convention is solid. Animanzement is North Carolina’s most notable anime con. It stands out as the top destination for many otaku in North Carolina. It also boasts as being one of the oldest in the country. This symbolizes The Old State’s long familiarity with anime and manga. Finally, North Carolina’s number of anime conventions is mostly the same as other states. Nevertheless, it has a powerful arsenal of at least 100 stores with anime and manga goodies. This means that investment in otaku goodies for otakus in North Carolina is nearly infinite and endless. This is no doubt one of the best things for otakus in North Carolina. There’s more to it. Other bordering states, with the same arsenal as North Carolina, make it even better for otakus in The North State. The best part is, the market for otakus in North Carolina keeps growing. There will be no stopping for them anytime soon. North Carolina prides itself as an excellent state for otakus, no wonder why it’s high on the list. Growth is Infinite for this state.

23. Minnesota

Nickname: The North Star State
Population: 5.707 Million
Region: Midwestern
Capital: Saint Paul
Abbreviation: MN
Number of Conventions: 6 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 30 (As of 2024)

The Midwest just never stops! No bigger example of that then seeing The North Star State Minnesota on this list. Minne “sota”, why not Minne “soda”? Get it? Joking joking! Lets get back to the topic. Another return to a Midwestern state and as well as a state bordering with fellow northern neighbors Canada. The otaku landscape for otakus in The North Star State returns to the Midwestern region. It is akin to other states in the Midwest. This similarity can result in both superior and inferior resources for otakus in Minnesota. The North Star State Minnesota’s anime convention, comparable to other Midwestern states, is relatively moderate. The North Star State is home to at least 6 anime conventions in the state. That number is higher than in neighboring states like Iowa and Nebraska. It is about the same as in neighboring states including Missouri and, to an extent, Wisconsin. Still, it lags behind Illinois and Ohio. It is generally considered moderately high to average when compared to other states nationwide. Aside from that, despite its moderate number of conventions, Minnesota is home to notable anime events. Anime Detour is the largest anime convention in Minnesota. It was first inaugurated in 2004. This makes it one of the oldest anime conventions in the country. It recently celebrated its 20th anniversary earlier this year. It is also one of the biggest anime conventions in America. Anime Detour is extremely popular among otakus in Minnesota. Anime Detour enjoys a large and diverse attendance both in-state and out-of-state. It also enjoys receives extensive media coverage from local outlets. Also, that’s not all. Besides Anime Detour, Minnesota hosts other notable anime conventions. Many consider these conventions popular both in the state and out of the state. For example, Minnesota’s other notable anime conventions are AniMinneapolis, Anime Fusion, and M.A.G.E. In spite of them not being the biggest in the state, they actually have quite the fan base. Minnesota has a decent amount of anime and manga shops. This is true even though it is a smaller state. Nonetheless, the North Star State has a modest number of them. There are a total of 30 shops that offer anime and manga goodies. While not among the highest, it’s still a good amount for otakus in Minnesota. Certainly a positive for Minnesota otakus.

Overall, While Minnesota doesn’t have the largest arsenal, it is still a good state for otakus to live in. The state has many anime conventions. Nevertheless, Minnesota’s real standout is hosting one of the largest anime conventions in America. Minnesota otakus can take pride in this fact. Minnesota’s 6 anime conventions are certainly enough for many otaku in The North Star State to enjoy investing time in. Minnesota’s large anime convention is also known as Anime Detour. Attending such a well-known event is an immense privilege for them. They can say that it is regarded as one of the most famous and largest in America. Other anime conventions in Minnesota are popular. This helps. They were earlier mentioned and are well known in the state. Minnesota’s anime shops are not the largest. But, they are adequate for many otaku in The North Star State. Fans enjoy investing in goodies for everything otaku in Minnesota. The overall market for Minnesota can be described as above modest levels. Due to the high growth of the anime and manga market in America, Minnesota benefits. It continues to grow the anime and manga market in the state. Minnesota’s otaku landscape, is none the less, a good one, and growth will continue.

22. Arkansas

Nickname: The Natural State
Population: 3.026 Million
Region: South, Southeastern
Capital: Little Rock
Abbreviation: AR
Number of Conventions: 3 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 58 (As of 2024)

Another state from the Southern region has emerged. Folks, with that, the Southern region has proven itself as a winner on the third part of this list. Arkansas, The Natural State from the South, is the fourth state to be from the south on this list. With that, the south now occupies the most ranks in the 20s rankings. It just shows how beloved anime and manga are in the southern region. It seems those identifying as otaku in the South are more than many of us anticipated. Back to the topic. Here we have Arkansas, remember “AR-Ken-Saw”, not “AR-Kan-Sas”. Uh yeah, sorry for the confusing part. Anyways, here have the Natural State Arkansas from the Southern region. The landscape for Otakus in Arkansas is noticeably low compared to other states region-wise. It is also low when compared to the entire nation. Arkansas’s anime convention scene is low compared to other states. It is the lowest since Massachusetts. This is the first time a state does not reach having 5 anime conventions since Massachusetts. None the less, Arkansas only has three anime conventions. Still, it is home to The Arkansas Anime Festival and is located in Benton, Arkansas. It is the largest anime convention in the state of Arkansas and was first inaugurated in 2007. It is also regarded as one of the notable anime conventions in the country. It is notable in the Southern region. The Arkansas Anime Festival for several years, hosted the annual anime con twice a year. The Arkansas Anime Festival is well known. It enjoys having a large number of attendees both in-state and out-of-state. It also enjoys extensive coverage from local media outlets. Arkansas’s other two anime conventions are Little Rock Anime Fest, and Bentonville Anime-Fest. Arkansas boasts a significant number of anime and manga shops. At least 58 of these shops are located in The Natural State. This makes Arkansas one of the states with a large number of anime and manga shops in the southern region. It also has a high number compared to the nation. Regardless, you can’t go wrong either way.

Overall, Being part of the Southern region, Arkansas, in comparison to other states is relatively a modest state for otakus. Arkansas has a small number of anime conventions. This is weak compared to other states in the Southern region and the country as a whole. The partial challenge many otakus in the state face is the lack of a large number of anime conventions. Yet, one advantage that many otakus in Arkansas can enjoy is the presence of a large anime convention. It is well known in the state and throughout the country. The Arkansas Anime Festival takes place in Benton, Arkansas. Because of the state’s size, it won’t be a significant problem for otakus. The other two anime conventions in Arkansas will help otakus stay engaged. They offer opportunities to stay active in the community. Most otaku who enjoy the anime convention scene in the state often look for other conventions in neighboring states. Unfortunately, neighboring states, except for Texas, also lack many conventions. On the bright side, the state is home to many anime and manga shops. They are filled with tons of goodies. Otakus in Arkansas rank high when identifying as otaku compared to other states. Growth remains infinite for otakus in America. The anime and manga market continues to grow in all 50 states. Growth will continue for Arkansas. There is no doubt that potential exists within The Natural State..

21. Utah

Nickname: The Beehive State
Population: 3.338 Million
Region: Rocky Mountain, West Region
Capital: Salt Lake City
Abbreviation: UT
Number of Conventions: 4 (As of 2024)
Number of Shops: 47 (As of 2024)

Welcome back to the west coast. The Beehive State, Utah, marks our first return to the Western region. The last visit was to Colorado, which was ranked 34 last time. Utah is our first state from the west to officially be on part 3 of this list. It is the only state from the west coast on this list. It is only our 4th state since starting with Wyoming in rank 50. With that, there is no doubt. The states from the west coast region of America are going to occupy the highest rankings. Back to the topic, and here we have Utah, also known as the Beehive State to be on this list. Utah is located on the west coast. It is not too far from Pacific time zone states like California, Washington, Arizona, Nevada, and Hawaii. Nonetheless, the landscape for otakus in Utah is relatively modest compared to its neighboring states. The anime convention scene in The Beehive State is relatively low. It ranks lower than states like Colorado but higher than states like Montana and Wyoming. Utah is home to only just 4 anime conventions. Oh wait… Hold on a sec… Well, next year, it will be just 3 anime conventions, and want to know why? Because guess what? Utah is our first state since North Carolina. It is only our 4th state without a notably large anime convention. The other states are Wyoming, New Hampshire, and Nebraska. But why, you say? Well, because recently in 2024, otakus in The Beehive state just lost their largest anime convention, known as Anime Banzai. First inaugurated in 2005, Anime Banzai was known as Utah’s largest anime convention. It enjoyed a large number of attendees from in-state and out-of-state. It also had extensive media coverage from local media outlets. It had strong popularity in the state, the western region, and the nation as a whole. Unfortunately, in 2024, it had its last run. Internal issues resulted in its cancellation, leading to Anime Banzai folding. So, a farewell event was held instead later that year. Thus leaving otakus in Utah with just 3 left. The other notable anime conventions located in Utah are Hachicon, Anime Town Utah, and Isekai Anime Con. When considering the number of anime and manga shops in The Beehive State, the quantity is moderate. The count is highly above average. This is true compared to many other states. When compared to other states like Montana and Wyoming, Utah ranks higher than those. The state has at least 47 anime and manga shops. In comparison, it is still significantly higher than the average, but slightly below other states. Regardless, it’s still a good number for a state like Utah.

Of all the states that I have written for, Utah stands out as the most roller coaster state so far. There is no doubt about its unique characteristics. When it comes to the topic, Utah’s otaku landscape is quite positive. It compares favorably and even superior to other states. This holds great importance in a region. The odds are all in favor of the otaku on the west coast. The only problem is, Anime Banzai in Utah has closed unfortunately. This closure will leave a huge wounded sting for many otaku in The Beehive State. Although the state is still home to 3 other anime conventions, Utah does not have a large anime convention. This will give many of The Beehive State otaku a sour taste. To complicate matters, many otakus in Utah will need to seek out neighboring west coast states. These states have a stronger otaku presence. On the bright side, Utah is bordered with arguably, the strongest region for otakus in America. That’s none other than the west coast. The west coast hosts the largest number of anime conventions. It also features many shops and several Japanese cultural landmarks. Heck, even other states not from the west will also bolster the lanscape for otakus in Utah like Texas. This will significantly enhance the enjoyment of otakus in Utah. It will also encourage them to invest their time in otaku activities through anime conventions. None the less, Utah does have anime conventions in the state. There are at least 3 of them. This will certainly please the otakus in Utah. It will earn the privilege of hosting an anime convention. This is remarkable when compared to other states that have none. Utah is home to 47 shops. This number allows otakus to enjoy their investment on otaku goodies. With the aid of other states in their region, things will improve for otakus in The Beehive State. It’s no accident that Utah ranks very high and the best on this list when compared to other states. Especially aided by the fact that its a west coast state which makes things better for otakus in Utah. The truth is, otakus in Utah are in a bright spot. The anime and manga market in America is growing endlessly, including in Utah. There is no stopping it. Otakus in The Beehive State will continue to enjoy the otaku growth in Utah.

____________________________________________________________________________

Total Number of States From Their Regions:

Northeastern: 2

Midwestern: 3

Southern: 4

Western: 1

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 4.

Discover more from Animangemu

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.