US State Breakup Food Rankings 2026: Milkshakes Take the Crown

Forget the stereotypical pint of ice cream. America's heartbreak map is far more diverse than we thought. According to recent data from Love Life Academy, the way we eat through a breakup depends heavily on where we live among the 50 states.

The Ultimate Map of US State Breakup Food Trends

The results are in, and the milkshake has emerged as the reigning champion of comfort. Dominating the Southeast, it's the go-to choice for states like Florida and Georgia. But it's not all sugar; the Midwest and Northeast show a massive preference for the gooey, savory embrace of cheese and starch.

• Rank 1: Milkshake (Top in 6 states: AL, FL, GA, NC, SC, TN)
• Rank 2: Grilled Cheese (Top in 4 states: IN, OH, WI, WV)
• Rank 3: Tacos (Top in 4 states: ID, KS, NM, TX)
• Rank 4: Cupcakes (Top in 4 states: MD, NJ, NY, DC)
• Rank 5: Potato Chips (Top in 3 states: AZ, CA, MI)

Sweet vs. Savory: Regional Heartbreak Profiles

Some choices are genuinely surprising. While New York opts for the chic comfort of cupcakes, states like Alaska and Montana turn to chicken noodle soup. This suggests that in colder climates, people seek internal warmth to combat the emotional chill of a breakup. Meanwhile, the Southwest leans into the crunch and customizable joy of tacos.