There’s something magical about giant, fluffy cats that look like they’ve just walked out of a fairytale forest. In 2025, the Maine Coon overtook the Ragdoll, becoming the most registered cat breed with the Cat Fanciers’ Association. That’s a pretty big deal. These magnificent felines have captured hearts across the entire country, from bustling cities to quiet rural towns. Yet, some states seem to have fallen head over heels for this breed more than others.
So where exactly are you most likely to encounter one of these gentle giants? The answer might surprise you. Geography, climate, and even cultural preferences play fascinating roles in where Maine Coons thrive. Let’s explore which American states have become true havens for these remarkable cats and what makes them so irresistible to cat lovers everywhere.
Maine: The Birthplace and True Home
It probably won’t shock you to learn that the state of Maine announced the breed would be named the official state cat in 1985. This is where it all began, after all. An impressive 44% of households have feline residents in the Pine Tree State, with being more popular in Maine, the state from which they originated.
The connection between Maine and these cats runs deeper than just a name. These felines evolved to handle the harsh northeastern winters with their thick, water-resistant coats and snowshoe-like paws. The city of Portland in Maine is highly cat-friendly, making it essentially paradise for Maine Coon enthusiasts. Walk through any neighborhood in Maine and you’ll likely spot these majestic creatures lounging in windows or prowling through backyards.
Vermont: Cat Lover’s Paradise
The state with the highest percentage of cat owners is the Green Mountain State, with a whopping 44.6% of households owning cats. That’s honestly incredible when you think about it. Vermont has quietly become America’s most feline-friendly state.
Nearly half of all households here share their homes with cats, creating an environment where Maine Coons flourish. The rural landscape, cold winters, and outdoor-loving culture make Vermont an ideal match for this breed. In Vermont, nearly half of all households (44.6%) have a cat, by far the highest in the country, with the state having the largest gap between cat owners and dog owners at 12%. Let’s be real, that’s dedication.
California: The Breeder Capital
If we go by officially licensed breeders, California leads in officially licensed breeders. The Golden State might not have the climate Maine Coons evolved for, yet it’s become a surprising hotspot for these cats. Perhaps it’s the sheer population size or maybe Californians just can’t resist those tufted ears.
California’s massive pet industry and diverse population mean Maine Coons have found devoted fans from San Diego to Sacramento. The state’s numerous cat shows and breeding programs have helped establish California as a major center for Maine Coon enthusiasts. Temperature control indoors means these thick-coated beauties can thrive even in sunny climates.
New York and the Northeast Connection
In New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island, these unique cats are especially appreciated. The northeastern United States shares cultural and climatic similarities with Maine, making it natural territory for Maine Coons. These states have embraced the breed with enthusiasm.
Phylogenetic studies showed that the Maine Coon forms the closest relationship with the random-bred cat population in the Northeastern US (New York region). There’s an actual genetic connection here. New Yorkers seem particularly drawn to the breed’s friendly yet independent nature, perfect for busy urban lifestyles where you want companionship without neediness.
The Southern States’ Growing Love
Moving south, Maine Coons have won the hearts of residents of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. This might seem counterintuitive since these gentle giants were bred for cold weather. Yet southern cat lovers have discovered that with proper indoor climate control, Maine Coons adapt beautifully.
Florida’s large retiree population has particularly embraced these cats. Their calm temperament and relatively low-maintenance grooming needs make them ideal companions. Georgia and South Carolina have seen growing Maine Coon populations too, with breeders establishing catteries throughout the region. The breed’s dog-like loyalty appeals to southerners who appreciate both cats and dogs.
Midwest Maine Coon Strongholds
The northwestern states, such as Minnesota and Wisconsin, where Maine Coons have firmly established themselves in the homes of cat lovers, represent another major concentration. The Midwest’s cold winters make it climatically similar to Maine, which probably helps.
Wisconsin has roughly thirty-two percent of households with cat lovers who appreciate felines. Minnesota’s outdoor culture and harsh weather conditions mean Maine Coons feel right at home. These states value hardy, practical pets that can handle challenging environments. The breed’s history as working cats appeals to midwestern sensibilities about animals earning their keep.
Western States’ Surprising Popularity
In western states such as Colorado and Nevada, the popularity of this breed is also not decreasing, and every year more and more people prefer these large and charming pets. Colorado’s mountain climate and outdoor lifestyle make it particularly well-suited for Maine Coons who love adventure.
Nevada might seem like an odd choice with its desert climate, yet Las Vegas and Reno have substantial Maine Coon populations. The breed’s impressive size and striking appearance appeal to westerners who appreciate bold, distinctive pets. Oregon and Washington also rank highly for cat ownership, with Portland and Seattle hosting thriving Maine Coon communities.
The Nationwide Spread of America’s Gentle Giants
Traveling across the United States, you can meet Maine Coons in literally every state, including Alabama, Louisiana, Michigan, Tennessee, Kentucky, Missouri, Kansas, New Mexico and even Alaska and Hawaii. These cats have truly conquered the nation from coast to coast.
Alaska makes perfect sense given its extreme climate, while Hawaii proves that Maine Coons can adapt to virtually any environment with proper care. In 2025, the Cat Fanciers’ Association officially announced that the Maine Coon has surpassed the Ragdoll to become the most registered pedigree cat in the world, showing that more families and breeders are choosing Maine Coons than ever before. Their gentle nature and social personalities have made them universally beloved.
Conclusion: Coast to Coast Cat Domination
Maine Coons have evolved from regional favorites to national treasures. While Maine and Vermont lead in ownership percentages, California dominates in breeding operations, and states throughout the Northeast, Midwest, and even the South have embraced these magnificent felines. Regardless of the region, Maine Coons conquer with their good nature, energy and magnificent appearance, which makes them one of the most popular cats in America.
What makes this breed so universally appealing? It’s hard to say for sure. Maybe it’s their impressive size, their friendly personalities, or that remarkable combination of independence and affection. Whatever the reason, Maine Coons have proven they can thrive anywhere loving families welcome them. Did you expect them to be this popular nationwide? What do you think makes them so irresistible?
