A new study is suggesting the Grand Canyon State could soon be known as the cookout state. With Memorial Day around the corner, the team at 4imprint analyzed each state on 12 ranking factors that would be favorable to having a backyard BBQ — like average lawn size, cost of a hamburger, average summer temperature, and found that Arizona ranks as the fourth best state for a cookout. Here’s what they found: 

As burgers go for just $2.87 a pop, among the cheapest nationwide, Arizona ranks as the fourth best state for a cookout. With low humidity and an average summer temperature of 78.1°F, it’s one of the driest and sunniest places to grill. The state also boasts one of the lowest numbers of people per residential pool (14), giving partygoers plenty of chances to cool off between burgers.

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To determine where summer sizzles best, we ranked states on everything from burger and beer prices to fireworks laws, backyard space, climate and even mosquito count. Here’s a closer look at the top contenders lighting up the grill this season.

#1 Tennessee

Tennessee tops the list with an unbeatable mix of affordability, firework enthusiasm and climate comfort. With hamburgers averaging just $2.60 — one of the lowest in the country — and a reasonable beer cost, it’s a budget-friendly BBQ haven. But what really sets it apart is its explosive fireworks scene: $16.4 million in annual spending, which is a whopping 68% more than the average state. Add in mild precipitation, a solid UV index and low mosquito presence, and you’ve got a recipe for a perfect outdoor party.

#2 Kansas

Kansas earns the runner-up spot with standout scores in both comfort and cost. The Sunflower State is practically bite-free, hosting only two mosquito species — the fewest among all 50 states. It also ranks high in fireworks spending and scores well for affordable beer (just $17.30 for the average case) and solid temperature conditions. Its moderate lawn sizes mean there’s plenty of room to spread out, fire up the grill and relax.

#3 Michigan

Michigan offers great value on both beer and burgers, totaling about $20.39, and ranks highly in terms of UV exposure and lawn size. Fireworks are legal and well-celebrated, with over $13 million spent annually. Despite slightly higher humidity, Michigan’s cool, manageable summer temperatures make it easy to enjoy long hours outdoors. With a high overall factor score across affordability, climate and party space, Michigan earns its place in the top three.

#4 Arizona

Arizona serves up a near-perfect climate for embracing the heat of backyard BBQs. With low humidity and an average summer temperature of 78.1°F, it’s one of the driest and sunniest places to grill. The state also boasts one of the lowest numbers of people per residential pool (14), giving partygoers plenty of chances to cool off between burgers — all of which makes Arizona a prime destination for laid-back, sun-soaked cookouts.

#5 Indiana

Indiana lands at #5 with solid scores across the board. Burgers and beer here run about $21.24 together, and the state is one of the most fireworks-friendly on the list, with over $20 million in annual spending. Alongside Michigan, Indiana is one of just 13 states where fireworks are fully legal for consumers.

Rounding out the rest of the top states are a mix of Midwest and Southern states that each bring something unique to the grill. Florida impresses with its unbeatable people-to-pool ratio and warm weather, while South Carolina and Missouri offer low beer prices and enthusiastic fireworks celebrations. Together, these states prove that whether you’re craving poolside burgers or wide-open backyard space, there’s no shortage of BBQ-ready spots across the country.