Tattoos are more popular than ever in Minnesota, and a new study reveals an unexpected frontrunner as the state’s favorite design: cats.
According to an analysis by career research platform Zippia, cat tattoos topped the list as the most-searched and presumably most-requested tattoos in Minnesota. The finding is based on a year’s worth of Google Trends data, which Zippia used to identify the most-searched tattoo themes in each U.S. state. Cat tattoos also ranked highest in neighboring South Dakota.
The findings underscore Minnesotans’ strong connection to personal expression through body art. As of December 2024, the Minnesota Department of Health reports that the state is home to 320 licensed tattoo parlors—referred to officially as “body art establishments.” Each tattoo artist working in those shops is also required to be individually licensed.
The report turned up several other surprising favorites across the country. While Minnesotans prefer cats, Wisconsin residents reportedly favor fox tattoos, and Iowans are most interested in pink elephant designs. Arizona’s top tattoo search, meanwhile, was for actor Shia LaBeouf—despite no clear connection to the state.
The study also highlighted the lingering popularity of political tattoos. A Biden design ranked highest in Michigan, Bernie Sanders led in Pennsylvania, and a Trump tattoo remains the most popular in Mississippi.
While the reasons behind each choice vary, the results suggest Americans are increasingly using tattoos as a way to express identity, sentiment, and even humor.
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