Ever wondered what MLS team has the most fans? The answer depends a lot on how you measure “most fans” — by match attendance? Social media reach? Merchandise sales? By all major metrics combined, one club clearly stands above the rest, though a few are breathing down its neck. Below, HartGoal will take you through the data — and the drama — behind who truly rules the Major League Soccer fanbase.
Measuring “most fans”: What counts
Before picking a winner, it helps to define what we mean by “most fans.” Here are the common measurements:
- Average home attendance — how many people show up for home matches
- Biggest single-game attendance — especially marquee games or derbies
- Social media following — followers on platforms like Instagram, X/Twitter, Facebook, TikTok, etc.
- Search interest, merchandise sales, global reach — less quantifiable, but growing in importance
Each metric has its strengths and caveats. A team in a smaller city might have more die-hard fans proportionally but fewer seats to fill. Big clubs in big markets often dominate online followings but may have more casual followers.
Top contenders by attendance
Attendance is often the most reliable indicator of a fanbase that shows up. Based on the 2024 season data:
- Atlanta United FC leads all MLS teams in average home attendance, drawing an average crowd of 46,831. That’s by far the highest in the league.
- Other clubs with very strong attendances include Charlotte FC, Seattle Sounders FC, and LA Galaxy. edia)
- For single-match records: events involving teams like Atlanta, LA Galaxy, and Inter Miami (especially since the arrival of major stars) have drawn crowds well over 60,000, sometimes surpassing 70,000.
So from a “who shows up” perspective, Atlanta United is the winner.
Online reach, media, and global popularity
If we shift to digital metrics, the story adds some nuance.
- Social media following: Inter Miami has surged in popularity on social media since signing Lionel Messi. Growth rates on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have spiked for the club.
- Other clubs like LA Galaxy consistently have large followings due to their long history, star signings, and strong brand.
- Beyond just raw follower counts, engagement matters. Fan passion, memes, chatter around matches, and merch sales are all rising especially around clubs that produce big moments — Miami’s recent success, dramatic games in Atlanta, etc.
The Messi effect and shifts in fandom
No discussion about MLS popularity is complete without mentioning Messi. Since his move to Inter Miami:
- MLS overall has broken attendance records, both in total season attendance and average.
- Inter Miami has gained massive global visibility, pushing up merch, social media stats, and new fans — even if their home attendance hasn’t reached Atlanta’s heights yet.
So while Atlanta remains king in attendance, Miami is rapidly closing the gap in other dimensions of “having fans.”
Who truly has the most fans?
Putting all the metrics together — attendance, reach, brand, and recent growth — here’s where things stand:
- Most likely “king”: Atlanta United FC. Their average home attendance is unmatched; their supporters are consistent, loud, and make home games feel like events.
- Runners-up: Inter Miami has probably overtaken many in digital reach and global interest, especially since Messi’s arrival. LA Galaxy still carries legacy strength in followings and historical weight. Seattle Sounders FC remain very strong in supporter culture and attendance.
So, if someone asks what MLS team has the most fans, the safest answer in 2025 is Atlanta United, with Inter Miami gaining fast and challenging that throne on multiple fronts.
Why this matters: More than bragging rights
Fandom isn’t just about numbers — it impacts:
- Revenue (ticket sales, merchandise, sponsorships)
- Player attraction — big-name stars want to play in front of big, passionate crowds
- Broadcast deals & global presence — the more fans, local and abroad, the more leverage for the league and the clubs
That’s why these metrics are watched so closely by everyone.
Conclusion
In short, Atlanta United FC currently holds the title for what MLS team has the most fans, particularly in terms of regular attendance. Inter Miami might not yet top that metric, but with massive growth online, star power, and rising global interest, they’re firmly in the conversation.
If you like staying on top of MLS trends — from attendance battles to social media showdowns and club growth — stick with HartGoal. Next time, we’ll break down which MLS teams are expanding fastest, where the biggest stadium expansions are planned, and who’s set to challenge Atlanta in the years ahead.
