The Great American Soda Map: Why Your State Drinks What It Drinks
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What’s Your State Drinking?
Data Pandas created this intriguing map showing America’s favorite sodas by state. The data comes from a Holiday Calendar survey of 3,000 Americans conducted between May 25th and June 2nd, 2024, revealing some unexpected patterns in national drink preferences. The results show Mountain Dew has quietly become the go-to drink across many northern states. Who would’ve guessed?
The Mountain Dew North
Look at all that green spreading across the northern states. Mountain Dew dominates in places like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Pretty surprising for a drink that started in Tennessee, right? Marketing research suggests it’s because Mountain Dew connected well with small towns and suburban areas in these regions. The drink’s high caffeine content probably doesn’t hurt during those long northern winters either.
Southern Coca-Cola Loyalty
Look at all that red across the South. It’s no coincidence – Coca-Cola started in Atlanta in 1886, and that connection to the South runs deep. Walk into any southern family gathering or local restaurant, and you’ll likely spot those familiar red cans. It’s more than just a drink choice down there – it’s part of southern identity.
The Pepsi Strongholds
Pepsi claims the top spot in 11 states, with notable strength in the Northeast. Places like New York, North Carolina, and Maryland prefer Pepsi over its competitors. The brand even beats Coca-Cola in Colorado and Montana, showing its appeal isn’t just limited to one region.
Dr Pepper Territory
Dr Pepper might not lead in as many states as the others, but it has passionate followers in places like Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas. Not bad for a drink that started in Waco, Texas, back in 1885. In fact, many Texans still call all sodas “Coke,” even when they’re reaching for a Dr Pepper.
Speaking of Names…
Your word choice for these drinks might give away where you grew up. Northerners usually say “pop,” while many Southerners use “Coke” for everything fizzy. Head to the Northeast, and you’ll hear “soda” instead.
What’s In Your Fridge?
Does your favorite match what most people drink in your state? Maybe you’re the one Mountain Dew fan in Coca-Cola country, or you keep the Pepsi faith alive where Dr Pepper rules. Share your thoughts – there’s always a story behind why we reach for certain drinks.
The map comes from a survey of 3,000 Americans, which isn’t huge, but it matches up with what many regional sales numbers show. Still, brand preferences can shift over time, and these patterns might look different in a few years.
