Craft beer is more than a trend—it’s become a thriving culture across the U.S. While some states boast impressive numbers of breweries, others truly shine when you look at how many they have relative to their population. If you’re a beer enthusiast, this list is for you! Here are the top 10 states with the most breweries per capita, where the craft beer scene is booming.
#1 Vermont
- Breweries per capita: 15.9 per 100,000 people
- Total breweries: 104
- Why it stands out: Despite its small size, Vermont leads the country in breweries per capita. It’s home to iconic breweries like The Alchemist and Hill Farmstead Brewery, known for their world-class beers, especially the highly-coveted Heady Topper IPA. Vermont’s focus on independent, small-scale brewing means you’ll find a variety of high-quality, unique beers throughout the state.
Vermont’s craft beer culture is all about quality over quantity. For lovers of hazy IPAs, sours, and experimental brews, it’s one of the best places to explore.
#2 Maine
- Breweries per capita: 14.1 per 100,000 people
- Total breweries: 156
- Why it stands out: Known for its exceptional New England-style IPAs, Maine’s beer scene is centered around its coastal towns, particularly Portland. Famous breweries like Allagash and Bissell Brothers anchor the state’s reputation as a craft beer destination. From hazy IPAs to Belgian-style ales, Maine has it all.
Maine’s breweries emphasize sustainability and often use locally sourced ingredients. Plus, with its scenic coastal views, it’s an ideal state to enjoy fresh, local beer.
#3 Montana
- Breweries per capita: 12.4 per 100,000 people
- Total breweries: 98
- Why it stands out: Montana’s craft beer culture is closely tied to its rugged outdoors and agricultural roots. Many of its breweries, like Big Sky Brewing, highlight local ingredients, including Montana-grown barley. The state’s wide-open spaces and small-town vibe make for a relaxed beer-drinking experience.
Montana is perfect for those who love enjoying craft beer in a laid-back, rustic setting. The state’s community-oriented breweries make it a great place for locals and visitors alike to connect over a pint.
#4 Oregon
- Breweries per capita: 12.3 per 100,000 people
- Total breweries: 363
- Why it stands out: Oregon has long been a leader in the craft beer movement, with Portland often referred to as the “craft beer capital of the world.” The state boasts iconic breweries like Deschutes, Rogue, and Cascade, offering a diverse range of styles, from IPAs to sour ales.
With its strong emphasis on sustainability and creativity, Oregon’s beer culture is all about innovation. Whether you’re in Portland or exploring the smaller towns, you’ll find some of the most inventive and high-quality beers in the country.
#5 Colorado
- Breweries per capita: 11.4 per 100,000 people
- Total breweries: 430
- Why it stands out: Colorado has long been a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. Home to major events like the Great American Beer Festival, the state boasts iconic breweries like New Belgium and Great Divide. Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle is perfectly complemented by its vibrant craft beer scene.
Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or just enjoying a day out, Colorado’s craft breweries provide the perfect backdrop for a refreshing local brew. It’s a state that perfectly blends adventure and beer.
#6 Alaska
- Breweries per capita: 11.1 per 100,000 people
- Total breweries: 82
- Why it stands out: Alaska may be far from the lower 48, but its craft beer scene is nothing short of impressive. Breweries like Alaskan Brewing and Anchorage Brewing have gained national recognition for their bold and creative beers. The state’s remote location and rugged landscape inspire many of its unique brews, incorporating local ingredients like spruce tips and wild berries.
Alaska offers a truly unique craft beer experience. Sipping a locally brewed beer while taking in the state’s breathtaking wilderness is an experience that’s hard to beat.
#7 Wyoming
- Breweries per capita: 10.9 per 100,000 people
- Total breweries: 63
- Why it stands out: Wyoming’s craft beer scene is smaller but deeply rooted in its laid-back, outdoorsy culture. Breweries like Snake River Brewing are known for creating award-winning beers that perfectly capture the state’s frontier spirit. Wyoming’s breweries focus on quality, offering a range of well-crafted, classic beer styles.
If you’re looking for a quiet, unpretentious craft beer experience, Wyoming’s breweries offer just that. Enjoying a beer here often means relaxing with friends after a day exploring the natural beauty of the region.
#8 New Hampshire
- Breweries per capita: 10.7 per 100,000 people
- Total breweries: 145
- Why it stands out: New Hampshire is home to a rapidly growing craft beer scene. Breweries like Smuttynose and Stoneface Brewing are gaining attention for their quality beers, and the state’s small but tight-knit brewing community is making waves. Many of New Hampshire’s breweries focus on sustainability and local ingredients.
New Hampshire’s scenic landscapes make brewery hopping even more enjoyable. It’s a state where craft beer fans can find hidden gems while soaking in the natural beauty of the region.
#9 North Dakota
- Breweries per capita: 10.2 per 100,000 people
- Total breweries: 78
- Why it stands out: North Dakota may not be the first place you think of for craft beer, but it’s quickly gaining recognition. Breweries like Drekker Brewing and Fargo Brewing are known for their bold and experimental beers, making North Dakota a surprise craft beer destination. Many of the state’s breweries use locally grown grains, giving their beers a unique, regional twist.
North Dakota’s craft beer scene might be small, but it’s growing fast. If you’re looking for innovative beers in a less crowded setting, this state is worth a visit.
#10 Idaho
- Breweries per capita: 10.1 per 100,000 people
- Total breweries: 188
- Why it stands out: Idaho is one of the largest hop-producing states in the country, which makes it no surprise that its craft beer scene is booming. Boise is the center of the state’s brewing activity, with breweries like Payette Brewing and Woodland Empire creating standout beers that showcase Idaho’s hops.
For hop lovers, Idaho is a paradise. The state’s access to fresh, local ingredients allows its breweries to produce some of the freshest, most flavorful beers around.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a die-hard IPA fan or someone who loves exploring new beer styles, these 10 states offer something special for every craft beer lover. From Vermont’s small-batch gems to Idaho’s hop-driven brews, these states are where the heart of America’s craft beer culture truly thrives. So if you’re planning your next beer-inspired road trip or just want to know where to get the best local pints, these states should be at the top of your list.
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