North Carolina Ranks as One of the Most ‘All-American’ States
Everyone has their own idea of what’s all-American. Some say it’s baseball, while others swear by apple pie or a root beer float. Now, figuring out which state is the most “all-American” is a bit more complicated. A recent study by Viator, a travel website, aims to provide clarity. Their study used a set of criteria, including landmarks, national park sites, restaurants, sports venues, and RV dealerships and parks, assigning each state a score on a scale from 1 to 10.
Where North Carolina ranks.
According to Viator’s data, North Carolina holds the ninth spot as the most all-American state. The study states, “While North Carolina may not boast the highest number of national park sites among the top 10 most ‘All-American’ states, it does lead the entire country in the average number of annual visitors per park with 2,048,695.” Its ranking may have been influenced by its homeownership percentage, a factor considered in Viator’s criteria. The study highlights that these criteria were included because part of the traditional “American Dream” involves living in your own home. In North Carolina, the homeownership percentage is 66.255, ranking as the 33rd lowest among all 50 states.
Top 5 most All-American states.
Michigan rounds out the top five, with fewer national park sites but a distinct focus on natural beauty. Viator emphasizes Michigan’s standout feature in homeownership, securing the second-place ranking among all 50 states. The study notes, “Michigan holds the second-place ranking for homeownership—meaning the American Dream of owning your own home might be a little more obtainable here, even in the face of rising housing costs across the country.”
The Empire State, New York, occupies the fourth position, distinguished by its historic landmarks, totaling 275. Iconic sites like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island contribute to New York’s standing. The state further elevates its ranking through many fast-food establishments and sports venues, including Madison Square Garden and Yankee Stadium.
Securing the third spot is Florida, which offers a variety of outdoor attractions with 11 national park sites. Viator’s study highlights Florida’s diverse landscapes, labeling them “some of the country’s most unique.”
In second place is California, which stands out with 147 historic landmarks, including iconic sites like Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. The state also claims the highest number of fast-food restaurants (32,424) among all 50 states and a large presence of RV dealerships and parks.
Pennsylvania emerges as the top-ranking state, achieving a score surpassing 9 points—the lone state to do so. Viator notes that Pennsylvania offers a balanced representation of the American experience, featuring historic landmarks, national parks, sports venues, and fast-food establishments.
Check out the complete study here to see how the rest of the states stacked up.