State of Fry: Each State’s Favorite Type of French Fry in 2026
The most popular types of French fries across the U.S. are Waffle Fries and Cheese Fries, each adored by 12 states.
On average, Americans consume approximately 30 pounds of French fries annually.
In total, the U.S. consumes an estimated 4.5 billion pounds of French fries each year.
Roughly 25% of all vegetables eaten by Americans are French fries.
French fries remain America’s favorite potato in 2026, with their appeal showing no signs of waning.
Every fry enthusiast knows that there are countless ways to prepare French fries. While there are numerous fry styles, only a select few have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of Americans.
To celebrate the enduring love for French fries—and the jobs tied to their production and service—we explored each state’s favorite fry type. Having already uncovered favorite dipping sauces, identifying the preferred fry was a natural next step.
What did we find? Consumers are craving more than just basic fries!
Other Interesting Findings
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Seven states proudly declare their love for tater tots, which, while undeniably delicious, may seem an unconventional choice.
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Only New Mexico favors chili cheese fries above all else.
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Five states opt for classic shoestring fries.
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Five states lean towards sweet potato fries—perhaps as a nod to healthier choices?
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Curly fries, an underrated gem, are only favored by three states.
How We Determined Each State’s Favorite Fry
Utilizing Google Trends data, we analyzed the popularity of various fry types across all states. By examining numerous fry styles, we pinpointed which types were being searched at disproportionately high rates in each state.
For instance, while New Mexico enjoys a variety of fry types, the search interest in “chili cheese fries” stands out, making it the most favored fry in that state.
We made some tough decisions regarding our fry list, including the exclusion of frozen smiley fries, as we aimed to maintain fry integrity. Similarly, onion rings were omitted since they aren’t derived from potatoes.
It’s clear why Burger King inquires whether you prefer fries OR onion rings—onion rings fall under a different fry category.
Interestingly, we did include tater tots in our fry classification since they are both fried and made from potatoes.
Our analysis incorporated a full year’s worth of search data, allowing every state to showcase its fry preferences.
Is There a Wrong Way to Enjoy Fries?
Beyond those smiley-shaped, frozen imposters and non-potato onion rings, it’s tough to go wrong with fries.
So, feel free to order whichever fry suits your fancy at your next work Happy Hour. Why not create a fry platter featuring all your favorites?
Can you ever have too many fries? Absolutely not, especially when smothered in cheese!
Each State’s Favorite Type of Fry
| State | Type |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Cheese fries |
| California | Cheese fries |
| Colorado | Cheese fries |
| Georgia | Cheese fries |
| Louisiana | Cheese fries |
| Mississippi | Cheese fries |
| Nevada | Cheese fries |
| North Carolina | Cheese fries |
| Oklahoma | Cheese fries |
| Rhode Island | Cheese fries |
| South Carolina | Cheese fries |
| Texas | Cheese fries |
| New Mexico | Chili Cheese Fries |
| Kentucky | Crinkle fries |
| Michigan | Crinkle fries |
| Arizona | Curly fries |
| Hawaii | Curly fries |
| Wisconsin | Curly fries |
| New Jersey | Shoestring fries |
| New York | Shoestring fries |
| Pennsylvania | Shoestring fries |
| Virginia | Shoestring fries |
| Washington | Shoestring fries |
| Arkansas | Steak fries |
| Illinois | Steak fries |
| Indiana | Steak fries |
| Oregon | Steak fries |
| Connecticut | Sweet potato fries |
| Delaware | Sweet potato fries |
| District of Columbia | Sweet potato fries |
| Massachusetts | Sweet potato fries |
| Vermont | Sweet potato fries |
| Alaska | Tater tots |
| Idaho | Tater tots |
| Maine | Tater tots |
| Montana | Tater tots |
| North Dakota | Tater tots |
| South Dakota | Tater tots |
| Wyoming | Tater tots |
| Florida | Waffle fries |
| Iowa | Waffle fries |
| Kansas | Waffle fries |
| Maryland | Waffle fries |
| Minnesota | Waffle fries |
| Missouri | Waffle fries |
| Nebraska | Waffle fries |
| New Hampshire | Waffle fries |
| Ohio | Waffle fries |
| Tennessee | Waffle fries |
| Utah | Waffle fries |
| West Virginia | Waffle fries |
Author
Kathy is the head of content at Zippia with a knack for engaging audiences. Prior to joining Zippia, Kathy worked at Gateway Blend growing audiences across diverse brands. She graduated from Troy University with a degree in Social Science Education.
