Which State Has the Most NFL Teams?

As of April 2025, the National Football League (NFL) comprises 32 teams spread across the United States. While many states host a single NFL franchise, a select few are home to multiple teams. Notably, California, Florida, and New York each boast three NFL teams, making them the states with the highest number of franchises. Let’s explore more on it with us.

The Answer: California’s NFL Dominance

In 2025, the answer to “Which state has the most NFL teams?” is California. The Golden State boasts three NFL franchises:

• Los Angeles Rams: Based in Los Angeles, the Rams have a storied history, including a recent Super Bowl victory in 2022.
• Los Angeles Chargers: Sharing SoFi Stadium with the Rams, the Chargers relocated from San Diego in 2017 and have been building a strong presence in LA.
• San Francisco 49ers: Situated in the Bay Area, the 49ers are renowned for their five Super Bowl titles and a dedicated fan base..

This concentration of teams makes California a hotbed for NFL action and a prime destination for football fans.

Why California? Factors Contributing to Team Density

Several factors contribute to California’s NFL team density:

• Large Population: California is the most populous state in the United States, providing a massive fan base for professional sports.
• Major Media Markets: Los Angeles and San Francisco are major media markets, offering significant financial incentives for NFL teams.
• Stadium Infrastructure: The state boasts modern, world-class stadiums that attract both teams and fans.
• Economic Strength: California’s strong economy supports professional sports franchises.⁶

Other States with Multiple NFL Teams

While California holds the top spot, several other states also have multiple NFL teams:

Florida

• Miami Dolphins: Established in 1966, the Dolphins have a rich history, including the only perfect season in NFL history (1972).
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Recent Super Bowl champions in 2021, the Buccaneers have seen a resurgence in success.
• Jacksonville Jaguars: Founded in 1995, the Jaguars represent northern Florida and have a passionate local following.

New York’s NFL Teams

• Buffalo Bills: Based in Buffalo, the Bills have a dedicated fan base and a history of four consecutive Super Bowl appearances in the early 1990s.
• New York Giants: Although they play their home games in New Jersey, the Giants represent the New York metropolitan area and have secured multiple Super Bowl titles.
• New York Jets: Sharing MetLife Stadium with the Giants, the Jets also play in New Jersey but are identified with New York.

It’s noteworthy that while the Giants and Jets operate out of New Jersey, they are officially recognized as New York teams, contributing to New York’s total.

• Texas: Hosts two teams—the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Texans.​

• Pennsylvania: Home to the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Philadelphia Eagles.​

• Ohio: Features the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals.​

• Maryland: Hosts the Baltimore Ravens and, while the Washington Commanders’ stadium is in Maryland, they are considered a Washington D.C. team.

The distribution of NFL teams is influenced by factors such as population density, market size, and regional support for football. States like California, Florida, and New York have large populations and significant media markets, making them viable locations for multiple franchises.

In contrast, 27 states do not have an NFL team. Residents in these areas often support teams from neighboring states or have allegiances based on historical or familial ties.

The NFL’s Geographical Spread

The NFL’s geographical spread is designed to create a national league, with teams representing various regions of the United States. This distribution ensures that fans across the country have a local team to support.

• Regional Rivalries: The NFL’s structure fosters regional rivalries, adding excitement and intensity to games.
• National Appeal: The league’s national appeal is a testament to its widespread popularity.

2025 and Beyond: Potential Changes

While the distribution of NFL teams has remained relatively stable, potential changes could occur in the future. Factors such as:

• Relocation: Teams may relocate to new markets for better financial opportunities or stadium deals.
• Expansion: The NFL could expand, adding new teams to the league.
• Stadium Development: New stadium development could influence team locations.

However, as of 2025, California remains the state with the most NFL teams.

Why This Information Matters to NFL Fans

Understanding the geographical distribution of NFL teams is essential for:

• Travel Planning: Fans planning to attend games can use this information to plan their trips.
• Fantasy Football: Knowing which teams are in which state can help with fantasy football research.
• General NFL Knowledge: This information enhances your overall NFL knowledge.

In Conclusion: California’s Reign in the NFL

In 2025, California holds the distinction of being the state with the most NFL teams, thanks to the Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Chargers, and San Francisco 49ers. The state’s large population, major media markets, and world-class stadiums contribute to its NFL dominance. While other states also boast multiple NFL teams, California leads the way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs

1. Which state has the most NFL teams in 2025?

As of 2025, California, Florida, and New York each have three NFL teams, making them the states with the most franchises.

2. Why does California have three NFL teams?

California has a large population, strong football culture, and major media markets, making it an ideal location to support multiple NFL franchises.

3. How many NFL teams are in Texas?

Texas has two NFL teams:

• Dallas Cowboys
• Houston Texans

4. Do the New York Giants and New York Jets actually play in New York?

No, both the New York Giants and New York Jets play their home games at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, but they are still officially considered New York teams.

5. Which states have two NFL teams?

The following states have two NFL teams:

• Texas (Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans)
• Pennsylvania (Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers)
• Ohio (Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals)
• Maryland (Baltimore Ravens, Washington Commanders*)

Note: The Washington Commanders’ stadium is in Maryland, but they represent Washington, D.C.

6. Which states do not have an NFL team?

As of 2025, 27 states do not have an NFL team. Some notable ones include Alabama, Kentucky, Oregon, South Carolina, and Montana.

7. Why do some states have no NFL teams?

States without NFL teams typically have:

• Smaller populations
• Less commercial appeal for the NFL
• Proximity to other states with teams, allowing residents to support neighboring franchises

8. Could more states get an NFL team in the future?

Yes! Cities like San Antonio, Portland, and St. Louis have been mentioned as potential locations for future NFL expansion or franchise relocation.

9. What is the biggest NFL rivalry within the same state?

Some of the most intense intra-state NFL rivalries include:

• San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams (California)
• Miami Dolphins vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Florida)
• Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Philadelphia Eagles (Pennsylvania)

10. Which state has the most successful NFL teams?

In terms of Super Bowl wins, Pennsylvania (Steelers, Eagles) and California (49ers, Rams) have some of the most successful franchises. The New England Patriots (Massachusetts) hold the record for the most Super Bowl wins (6, tied with the Pittsburgh Steelers).