States Without an MLS Team
Major League Soccer has grown fast, but not every state gets to claim a hometown club. If you’ve ever wondered why your state isn’t on the MLS map, you’re in the right spot. Below we break down the current list of states without a team, the reasons behind the gaps, and where you might see a franchise in the near future.
Who’s Missing Out?
As of 2024, 15 states still lack an MLS franchise. They are: Alaska, Arizona*, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada*, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah*, Vermont, West Virginia, Wyoming. (Note: Arizona, Nevada and Utah have USL clubs but no MLS side.) These states represent a mix of small populations, limited stadium infrastructure, and market concerns that make owners hesitant.
Most of the missing states are in the Midwest or the Mountain West, where soccer culture is growing but hasn’t yet reached the commercial size MLS wants. For example, Iowa and Kansas have strong college soccer programs, yet they lack a professional venue that meets MLS standards.
Why Some States Stay Off the Map
MLS looks for three main ingredients: a big enough fan base, a solid stadium plan, and strong local investors. In states like Delaware or Vermont, the population is under one million, and existing venues are either too small or already booked for other sports. That makes it hard to guarantee ticket sales and sponsorship dollars.
Another factor is competition from other professional sports. Kentucky, for instance, is already home to NBA and NFL teams that dominate the sports market. Adding an MLS club would require carving out a niche that’s still in its infancy.
Finally, geography matters. States with harsh winters, such as North Dakota and Montana, face higher operating costs for outdoor games. While some clubs use domed stadiums, the upfront investment is steep and deters potential owners.
Potential Expansion Hotspots
Even though these states don’t have a team now, many are on MLS’s radar. Arizona recently showcased a successful USL franchise and a growing fan base, so an MLS move could be just a few years away. Nevada’s Las Vegas market is booming, and the city already has a big arena that could be re‑configured for soccer.
Utah’s existing stadium, used by Real Salt Lake’s USL affiliate, meets many MLS standards, making an upgrade plausible. Meanwhile, the Pacific Northwest is eyeing a second team in the region; Spokane, Washington (just across the border from Idaho) could spark an Idaho‑based MLS push.
Mid‑west markets like Kansas City’s suburbs or Indianapolis are also being mentioned in expansion talks. Both cities have strong college soccer followings and recent stadium upgrades that could be adapted for MLS use.
If you live in a state on this list, keep an eye on local city council meetings about new stadium projects. A public‑private partnership can fast‑track the process, and community support often tips the scales for MLS investors.
Bottom line: While fifteen states still lack an MLS franchise, the league’s rapid expansion suggests many could see a team within the next decade. Stay tuned, follow your local soccer news, and you might soon be cheering for a brand‑new MLS side right in your backyard.
