Finding common ground can be a challenge in the United States, and preferences for quick-service restaurants are no different. A new analysis has mapped the fast-food chains that dominate each individual state, revealing a fragmented national picture defined by strong regional loyalties rather than a single, unifying brand.
Regional Champions Outperform Global Giants
According to data compiled by FinanceBuzz, no single chain manages to conquer the entire country. Instead, the landscape is a patchwork of local favourites. The burger chains Wendy's and Sonic Drive-In tied for the most state victories, each emerging as the preferred choice in five states. They were closely followed by sandwich specialists Subway and Jimmy John's, the only other outlets to be favoured in more than two states.
In a striking revelation, McDonald's – the world's largest and most ubiquitous fast-food brand – was conspicuously absent from the pinnacle. The Golden Arches did not claim the number one position in any single state. While it consistently ranked within the top five to ten chains based on search popularity and locations per capita, it rarely reached the very top spot in any regional contest.
The Power of Home-State Advantage
The data underscores the significant role of brand origin and corporate presence in shaping consumer loyalty. A total of 17 different chains were the top fast-food pick in their state of origin, a powerful home-field advantage that likely helped them edge out larger competitors like McDonald's.
This trend even extends to states hosting corporate headquarters, even if the brand was founded elsewhere. For example, Papa John's led in Kentucky, where its headquarters are based, despite being founded in Indiana. Similarly, Hardee's topped the rankings in Tennessee, home to its corporate office, though the chain began in neighbouring North Carolina.
A Nation Divided by Burgers and Subs
The findings paint a picture of a nation whose fast-food tastes are deeply ingrained in local culture and history. While most of these chains have expanded far beyond their original borders, they have retained a formidable and lasting popularity in their home regions. This regionalism triumphs over the homogenising force of global marketing, proving that in the competitive world of American fast food, local roots and longstanding loyalty can often outweigh scale and recognition.
