A new study by Template.net based on Google search data reveals that Illinois has the seventh strongest obsession with Italian brainrot memes in the U.S.
The research by business productivity platform TEMPLATE.NET analyzed monthly Google search volumes for ten related terms, including “Italian brainrot memes,” “brainrot Italian memes,” “Italian brainrot characters,” and “all Italian brainrot memes”, across all 50 U.S. states. The search volumes were then compared against population figures to determine which states are the most meme-obsessed per capita.
Illinois ranks sixth with 38.4 searches per 100,000 residents, which is 28% higher than the national average of 30. With a population of 12,778,100, the state recorded 4,910 monthly searches for Italian brainrot meme-related terms.
Looking at the study, a spokesperson from TEMPLATE.NET commented:
“This data shows how niche meme cultures like Italian brainrot have found strong digital communities in unexpected places. States like Illinois are leading a new kind of online humor movement, where surreal and culturally nuanced memes thrive.
“Whether it’s through AI-generated memes, curated character lists, or chaotic meme templates, Americans are diving headfirst into this subculture to express humor, identity, and shared absurdity.
“As meme culture continues to evolve, this trend highlights the importance of tracking how digital content shapes and reflects regional interests, especially among younger, internet-native audiences.”
Table for Extended Results:
The study was conducted by TEMPLATE.NET, a trusted online platform offering businesses and individuals customizable templates, design tools, and productivity resources.
Methodology:
The study was conducted using monthly Google search volumes for terms including “Italian brainrot memes,” “brainrot Italian memes,” “Italian brainrot characters,” “AI meme generator,” and other related keywords associated with the Italian brainrot meme trend. U.S. state population data for 2025 was then used to calculate searches per 100,000 residents, providing a normalized view of meme interest intensity.
