1. Texas
Texas has its own country scene so big, it could be its own genre—and in fact, it kind of is, according to Garrett Gravley and Amy McCarthy from the Dallas Observer. “Red Dirt” and “Texas Country” artists like Cody Johnson and Parker McCollum are dominating streaming charts while selling out arenas. Places like Gruene Hall and Billy Bob’s Texas are just as iconic as the Grand Ole Opry for die-hard fans. And even mainstream Nashville artists make sure to tour heavily through Texas cities.
Austin may be known for indie and blues, but it’s also packed with country showcases every week. Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio boast strong country radio ratings and loyal fanbases. Ranch life, pickup trucks, and cowboy culture feed naturally into the music’s popularity. For Texans, country music isn’t just a preference—it’s part of the identity.
2. Arkansas
Arkansas might not be loud about it, but country music is part of the state’s DNA, according to the Encyclopedia of Arkansas. Johnny Cash was born in Kingsland, and his legacy continues to influence young artists here. The Arkansas Country Music Awards have become a big annual event, spotlighting regional talent. Fayetteville and Little Rock have strong local scenes, complete with country nights and songwriting showcases.
What’s more, rural radio stations across the state remain country-dominant in ratings. The state’s geography—rolling hills, farmlands, and small towns—matches perfectly with the themes of classic and modern country alike. And Arkansans’ strong sense of community and storytelling makes them natural country fans. It may be under the radar, but it’s undeniably thriving.
3. Georgia
Georgia might surprise some people with how deep its country roots run, according to Addie Moore from Wide Open Country. Yes, Atlanta’s known for hip-hop, but step outside the perimeter and you’ll find strong country strongholds. Stars like Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, and Cole Swindell all hail from small towns across the state. And festivals like the Peachtree Country Fest and Rome River Jam keep the genre thriving year after year.
The fanbase is growing younger, too—college towns like Athens and Statesboro pack local bars for country nights. Atlanta’s country radio stations consistently rank high in ratings. Even Georgia’s state fairs and summer events lean heavily into country lineups. It’s not loud or flashy, but it’s everywhere if you’re paying attention.
4. Tennessee
Of course, Tennessee is a part of this list—and not just because of Nashville. Yes, Music City is the undisputed epicenter of country music, according to Kristin Luna and Margaret Littman from Condé Nast Traveler, but the influence spreads well beyond Broadway honky-tonks. Cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga have booming local scenes, with country acts filling mid-size venues every weekend. Even smaller towns host year-round festivals dedicated to the genre.
But the real sign that country’s everywhere here? You’ll hear it in grocery store speakers, on every third radio station, and echoing from backyard cookouts. The Country Music Hall of Fame remains a pilgrimage site, drawing millions annually. Plus, emerging stars are increasingly skipping L.A. and New York in favor of setting up shop in East Nashville.
5. Florida
Florida may be beachy and tropical, but don’t let that fool you—country music has a serious grip here. The state has produced artists like Jake Owen and Easton Corbin, and it’s a crucial stop on every big-name tour. Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville are all loaded with country bars and radio stations. Even Miami has its own country music club nights now.
Country Thunder Florida, held in Kissimmee, draws tens of thousands each year. Plus, the state’s blend of rural farmland and beach life fits many of the themes in modern country. You’ll hear country blasting from boat docks, tailgates, and beachfront bars alike. It’s that unique Florida twist on Southern living that makes the genre thrive here.
6. Oklahoma
Oklahoma lives and breathes country music, and it has for decades. It’s the home state of legends like Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, and Blake Shelton. The “Oklahoma sound” is still strong, and there’s a pipeline of new talent coming out of Tulsa and Norman. Local stations play classic and contemporary country around the clock.
Oklahoma’s county fairs and rodeos are mini music festivals in their own right. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tulsa regularly features major country headliners. And events like the Born & Raised Festival prove there’s a passionate, boots-on-the-ground fanbase. Here, country music isn’t just on the radio—it’s a lifestyle choice.
7. Kentucky
Kentucky’s mix of Appalachian roots and modern flair makes it a natural hub for country music. Chris Stapleton and Tyler Childers both call the state home, and their blend of authenticity and grit has reshaped the genre. The bluegrass influence gives Kentucky artists a unique edge that fans are gravitating toward. And there’s a renaissance happening in places like Lexington and Bowling Green.
The Renfro Valley Entertainment Center is a historic venue that continues to bring in top talent. Smaller festivals across the state focus on singer-songwriters, giving new voices a platform. Even Louisville, known more for bourbon and basketball, is seeing a rise in country events. It’s a quieter rise, but one that’s steadily picking up steam.
8. Missouri
Missouri’s country roots run deep, and they’re growing deeper by the year. Brad Paisley may be from West Virginia, but he cut his teeth in the Branson music scene early in his career. Speaking of Branson—this town is a country music Disneyland, with theaters offering live country shows nearly every night. The Ozarks region in general has long been a stronghold for fans of the genre.
Kansas City and St. Louis both have rising local scenes, driven by younger fans and strong radio support. Country mega-tours regularly stop through, with big crowds and big tailgates to match. Missouri also sits at the crossroads of Midwest and Southern influences, making it a cultural sweet spot for country themes. That blend keeps the genre relevant and widely embraced.
9. South Carolina
South Carolina’s country fandom might be quieter than Tennessee’s or Texas’, but it’s no less passionate. Darius Rucker, one of the few Black country superstars, hails from Charleston and remains a huge draw in the state. Columbia, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach have seen an increase in country bar openings and festival bookings. And the Carolina Country Music Fest in Myrtle Beach is now one of the biggest in the country.
Even high schools and college campuses regularly host country-themed dances and tailgates. The mix of coastal charm and Southern tradition makes country music feel right at home. There’s also a growing number of local artists emerging from the scene. If you look past the palmetto trees, you’ll find the twang is alive and well.
10. Alabama
Alabama’s contributions to country music history are legendary—and the present is just as vibrant. The group Alabama put Fort Payne on the map, and the state hasn’t stopped producing talent since. Country classics still rule the jukeboxes in dive bars from Birmingham to Mobile. Meanwhile, new artists are mixing gospel roots with Southern storytelling in a fresh way.
The Hangout Music Festival in Gulf Shores now includes more country artists each year. Tuscaloosa and Auburn tailgates are wall-to-wall with country playlists. Even Huntsville is seeing a surge in country-friendly venues. It’s a state that honors its roots while embracing the genre’s next wave.
11. North Carolina
North Carolina has quietly become a breeding ground for rising country artists. Luke Combs is the biggest name right now, and he proudly reps Asheville as his hometown. His success has opened doors for a wave of new talent from the Tar Heel State. Venues from Charlotte to Raleigh now regularly host up-and-coming acts who are drawing sellout crowds.
Even more telling is how popular country radio is across the state. Stations like 94.7 QDR in Raleigh lead in listenership among all genres. Boone and Wilmington host outdoor country shows that attract thousands. And with a strong songwriting culture and Southern values, North Carolina feels like fertile ground for even more growth.
12. Iowa
It might surprise some, but Iowa is turning into a country stronghold in the Midwest. The Iowa State Fair books some of the biggest names in the genre every summer, from Carrie Underwood to Eric Church. Des Moines and Cedar Rapids have growing scenes supported by local country radio and fan demand. The state’s mix of small towns and wide-open spaces make it a relatable backdrop for the music.
What’s interesting is the surge in younger fans across college campuses. Country concerts at the University of Iowa or Iowa State regularly sell out. You’ll find country songs blaring from trucks, frat houses, and backyard parties alike. Iowa may be corn-fed and quiet, but it’s dancing to a twangy beat more than ever.
