Study ranks North Carolina among the best states for sports fans

RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — North Carolina is one of the top states in the country for sports fans, according to a new analysis by SmileHub.

The study ranked North Carolina eighth overall after comparing all 50 states across three categories: sports interest and success, sports careers and income, and access to sports. Researchers evaluated states using 20 metrics, including the number of professional and college sports teams, sports facilities, participation levels and employment opportunities in the sports industry.

North Carolina ranked particularly well for sports interest and success, placing sixth nationally in that category. The state also ranked eighth for sports careers and income and 15th for access to sports.

The report noted North Carolina’s mix of professional and collegiate sports, along with opportunities for sports participation, contributed to its overall ranking.

Ohio topped the list, followed by New York, Pennsylvania, California and Massachusetts. North Carolina was the highest-ranked state in the Southeast.

SmileHub said the rankings were based on factors including the number of professional and college sports teams, sports championships, sports facilities, participation rates, sporting goods stores, fitness centers and employment opportunities in sports-related fields.

North Carolina is home to several major professional sports franchises, including the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, Charlotte FC, North Carolina Courage and the Carolina Hurricanes, along with nationally recognized college athletics programs and NASCAR events.