When it comes to hot dog devotion, West Virginia stands alone at the top. According to recent data from 24/7 Wall St, the Mountain State consumes a staggering 481 hot dogs per capita annually—that’s more than one hot dog per person, per day. Despite ranking 39th in population, West Virginians have turned the humble hot dog into a cultural staple, with deep roots in the state’s working-class history and culinary identity.
The West Virginia hot dog is a regional icon: a messy, satisfying combination of chili (no beans), yellow mustard, chopped onions, and creamy coleslaw, all nestled in a soft steamed bun. In some counties, like Marion, slaw is strictly forbidden, while in others, it’s non-negotiable. From gas stations to school cafeterias, this chili-slaw combo is everywhere—and it’s a point of pride.
The state’s hot dog obsession dates back to the early 20th century, when Greek and Italian immigrants opened hot dog stands near coalfields and industrial hubs. By the 1920s, Charleston alone had dozens of vendors, and one local paper even dubbed it “one of the greatest places on earth for hot dog eaters.”
The City That Devours the Most Dogs
While West Virginia leads in per capita consumption, Los Angeles takes the title for most hot dogs eaten overall. According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Angelenos consumed more than 27 million pounds of hot dogs in 2024—far outpacing New York and Dallas, which came in second and third, respectively.
A big part of that number comes from Dodger Stadium, where fans devour over 2.5 million Dodger Dogs each season. But LA’s hot dog culture extends far beyond the ballpark. The city is famous for its bacon-wrapped “danger dogs”, often sold by street vendors and topped with grilled onions, jalapeños, and mayo. These late-night staples are a beloved part of LA’s street food scene and a testament to the city’s multicultural take on the American classic.
A Tale of Two Hot Dog Capitals
So who wins the hot dog crown? It depends on how you measure it. West Virginia reigns supreme in passion and per-person consumption, while Los Angeles dominates in sheer volume. One thing’s for sure: whether you’re biting into a chili-slaw dog in Charleston or a bacon-wrapped street dog in LA, America’s love affair with hot dogs is alive and well.
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