This Map Shows the Most Popular Valentine’s Day Candy in Every State
Updated: Nov. 14, 2023
Spoiler: Chocolate wins by a landslide!
Even though this year’s celebrations may look a little different—there will be a lot more dining in and less dining out—one thing remains the same…chocolate is still one of the most popular gifts to give your special someone. Can you believe more than 58 million pounds of chocolate are purchased in the week leading up to Valentine’s Day?
Zippia used Google Trends to identify each U.S. state’s favorite Valentine’s Day candy and, no surprise, chocolate is at the top of the list!
The Most Popular Valentine’s Day Candy Is…
A whopping 45 out of 50 states prefer a chocolate treat. It looks like chocolate covered strawberries are the most popular across the country. This sweet treat is the top choice in 10 states, including New Jersey, Georgia and Tennessee. No time to get to the store? You can make chocolate covered strawberries at home.
Tied for second in the Valentine’s Day candy popularity contest are M&M’s and chocolate roses, loved by eight states each. If chocolate’s not your thing, you could always gift your sweetie with a savory bouquet of bacon roses or a beef jerky bouquet.
What Other Treats Made the List?
Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate. Unless you’re in California, that is—residents there apparently prefer candy necklaces on Valentine’s Day. Hershey Kisses got the top spot in five states, including Florida and South Dakota. Dove chocolates are also loved in five states, including Alaska and Hawaii.
Surprisingly, conversation hearts, which are an all-time classic, are only favored in four states.
If you’re ready to shop for your loved ones, we found the best Valentine’s Day chocolates at every price point along with the best Valentine’s Day candy. And if you’re feeling up to it, you can try your hand at these homemade Valentine’s Day chocolates or homemade Valentine’s Day candy. The secret ingredient? Love, of course!
Next, find out what the most popular Halloween candy in your state. Or, if you’re more of a Christmas fan, we have you covered on what the most popular Christmas candy in your state is, too.
