If there’s one thing we all love, it’s a viral video. These are videos that become extremely popular through rapid and widespread sharing across the internet, particularly on social media platforms, email and messaging apps. They often gain large numbers of views in a short amount of time due to their highly engaging, entertaining, emotional or relatable content. Viral videos can range from funny clips, memes and music videos to inspiring moments, challenges or even accidental occurrences caught on camera. They typically resonate with a wide audience and encourage viewers to share them with others.
In the world of viral videos, a few timeless classics continue to dominate the internet landscape, while others rise and fall with the trends of the day. A recent study by Casino.com uncovered the most viral YouTube videos by state, revealing a fascinating snapshot of America’s internet culture. From the timeless prank of Rickrolling to the hilarious, heartwarming bite of “Charlie Bit My Finger,” these videos have left an indelible mark on pop culture. But what’s truly intriguing is how different states have their own unique favorites, reflecting everything from humor to nostalgia.
To compile the list, Casino.com’s team analyzed nearly 100 of YouTube’s most iconic viral videos, based on their original view count, and then examined state-level YouTube search volume to determine the most popular viral video in each state. This analysis revealed that while some videos, like Never Gonna Give You Up, are universally loved, others have a more regional appeal, tapping into local cultures and humor.
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Check out the list of the most popular viral video in each state below! Share your thoughts and let us know which ones are your favorites in the comment section.
1. Rickrolling (Rick Astley – "Never Gonna Give You Up")
Rickrolling leads the pack, with Never Gonna Give You Up claiming the top spot in a staggering 15 states. From the snowy reaches of Alaska to the sunny shores of North Carolina, Rick Astley’s unexpected appearance has captured the internet’s attention for over a decade. Despite its age, this meme still has massive cultural staying power. Whether it’s a harmless prank or a nostalgic callback, it continues to reign as the ultimate viral classic.
Number Of States Most Popular In: 15
States Where It’s Most Popular: Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Washington
2. Charlie Bit My Finger
Meanwhile, Charlie Bit My Finger, one of the most relatable sibling moments ever caught on camera, grabs the title of most viral video in 11 states, including major metropolises like New York, California, and Florida. Its charm lies in its simplicity: just a brother’s finger being bitten by his younger sibling, evoking both laughter and sympathy from audiences of all ages. It’s a timeless example of how real-life moments can become internet gold.
Number Of States Most Popular In: 11
States Where It’s Most Popular: California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, South Carolina, Virginia, Wisconsin
3. Evolution of Dance
But it’s not all about classic memes. The early days of YouTube still make their mark, as Evolution of Dance and Annoying Orange continue to top the charts in five states each. These videos, though more niche in their appeal, have found their place in states like Arizona and Kentucky, where humor and nostalgia for early internet culture still resonate deeply. It’s a reminder that some of YouTube’s first big hits continue to make an impression in certain corners of the U.S.
Number Of States Most Popular In: 5
States Where It’s Most Popular: Arizona, Montana, New Mexico, South Dakota, Wyoming
4. Annoying Orange
Number Of States Most Popular In: 5
States Where It’s Most Popular: Kentucky, Missouri, North Dakota, Tennessee, West Virginia
5. Friday (Rebecca Black)
Then there’s Rebecca Black’s “Friday” — the viral video that was both a sensation and a punchline. Despite the mixed reactions it sparked when it first debuted in 2011, the video has remained a quirky piece of internet history. It continues to dominate the charts in Georgia and Pennsylvania, proving that even the most controversial viral moments can endure.
Number Of States Most Popular In: 4
States Where It’s Most Popular: Georgia, Maine, Pennsylvania, Vermont
6. David After Dentist
The study also highlights some more niche hits. David After Dentist, which captured a young boy’s post-surgery daze, resonates with audiences in states like Texas, where its awkward yet relatable humor still strikes a chord. Meanwhile, Dramatic Chipmunk, with its split-second of suspenseful drama, is still going strong in Nevada and Utah, showing that even the briefest viral moments can have a lasting impact.
Number Of States Most Popular In: 3
States Where It’s Most Popular: Alabama, Mississippi, Texas
7. Dramatic Chipmunk
Number Of States Most Popular In: 2
States Where It’s Most Popular: Nevada, Utah
8. Chocolate Rain (Tay Zonday)
In states like Maryland and New Hampshire, the odd yet memorable Chocolate Rain by Tay Zonday continues to reign. Though the video has faded from mainstream attention, its deep voice and bizarre lyrics have ensured it a permanent spot in internet culture.
Number Of States Most Popular In: 2
States Where It’s Most Popular: Maryland, New Hampshire
9. Double Rainbow
Over in Hawaii, Double Rainbow, a video that captured pure, emotional joy over a natural phenomenon, holds the title of the most viral. It’s a reminder that viral videos aren’t always about jokes or pranks; sometimes, they tap into deep, unifying human emotions that transcend the digital divide.
Number Of States Most Popular In: 1
States Where It’s Most Popular: Hawaii
10. Ultimate Dog Tease
As for Ultimate Dog Tease, the hilarious clip of a dog seemingly reacting to its owner’s taunts about food remains the top viral video in Kansas. Similarly, Charlie the Unicorn, the bizarre animated tale that quickly became a cult favorite, holds its ground in Oregon, proving that niche humor has a dedicated fanbase in certain regions.
