Where In The US Is Soccer Most Popular?

Soccer has seen a remarkable rise in popularity across the United States over the past few decades. Once overshadowed by American football, basketball, and baseball, the sport has carved out a passionate following.

Certain regions have emerged as true soccer hotbeds, driven by dedicated fan bases, professional teams, and thriving youth programs.

But where in the US is soccer most popular? Let’s take a closer look at the states and cities where the beautiful game thrives.

1. California: The Soccer Powerhouse

California has long been at the heart of American soccer. With its diverse population, favourable weather, and a deep-rooted soccer culture, it’s no surprise that the state is home to multiple Major League Soccer (MLS) teams, including:

• LA Galaxy – One of the most successful clubs in MLS history
• Los Angeles FC (LAFC) – Known for its passionate supporters and fierce rivalries
• San Jose Earthquakes – A historic team with a loyal fan base

California has also hosted numerous international soccer events, including World Cup matches and high-profile friendlies featuring top European and South American clubs.

2. Texas: A Growing Soccer Giant

Texas is a state that takes its sports seriously, and soccer is no exception. Cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin have become hubs for the game, boasting thriving soccer communities and impressive stadiums. Texas is home to three MLS teams:

• Houston Dynamo – A club with a strong following and a history of MLS success
• FC Dallas – Known for its youth development system, producing top-tier talent
• Austin FC – A newer club with a rapidly growing fan base

The state’s large Hispanic population has played a significant role in soccer’s popularity, bringing deep cultural traditions and an enduring passion for the sport.

3. Washington: Soccer Passion in the Pacific Northwest

Seattle is widely regarded as one of the most passionate soccer cities in the country. The Seattle Sounders consistently rank among the top MLS teams in terms of attendance and fan engagement. The city’s soccer culture is intense, with fans creating an electric atmosphere at every home game.

Not far away, Portland, Oregon, is another soccer-loving city, home to the Portland Timbers and their devoted fan group, the Timbers Army. Together, Seattle and Portland make the Pacific Northwest one of the most soccer-crazed regions in the US.

4. Florida: A Soccer-Friendly State

Florida has fully embraced soccer, particularly in cities like Miami and Orlando. The state’s two MLS teams are:

• Inter Miami CF – Co-owned by David Beckham, drawing international attention
• Orlando City SC – A team with a devoted following and strong community ties

Miami, with its large Latin American population, has an especially vibrant soccer culture. The region frequently hosts international friendlies, CONCACAF tournaments, and even World Cup qualifiers.

5. New York: A Historic Soccer City

New York has played a key role in American soccer history. It has long been a destination for global soccer icons and hosts two MLS teams:

• New York Red Bulls – A team with a strong legacy and dedicated supporters
• New York City FC – Playing in Yankee Stadium, attracting large crowds

The city’s diverse population fuels its soccer passion, supporting not just local teams but also international clubs in leagues like the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A. New York also regularly welcomes European clubs for high-profile summer friendlies.

6. Georgia: A Rising Soccer Force

Atlanta has rapidly become one of the biggest soccer cities in the US. Since joining MLS in 2017, Atlanta United FC has broken multiple attendance records, routinely filling Mercedes-Benz Stadium with over 70,000 fans.

The team’s early success, including winning an MLS Cup, has solidified soccer’s presence in the South. Atlanta’s embrace of the sport has shown that soccer isn’t just a coastal phenomenon—it’s thriving in unexpected places.

The Bottom Line

Soccer’s popularity in the US is growing at an incredible rate, and these cities and states are leading the charge. Whether it’s California’s deep history, Texas’ cultural connection, or Atlanta’s record-breaking fan engagement, soccer is carving out a permanent place in the American sports landscape.

As the sport continues to expand, new soccer hotspots will emerge, making the US an even stronger force in the global game.