The Most Common Kinks and Fetishes in the U.S.

In the last few years, you may have noticed that sexual fetishes and kinks are becoming more commonly discussed. Many people are more comfortable discussing their fetishes. In part, we can attribute this to the popularity of media such as Fifty Shades of Grey which catapulted communities like BDSM into the spotlight (inaccurately, though, as many people claim), and became one of the most common fetishes.

Unfortunately, “kink-shaming” is becoming a thing too. While many fetishes and kinks remain on the fringes of most people’s vocabulary and experiences, studies have shown that for many, they are simply a part of their sexual development and identity development. And the stigma around various sexual kinks and common fetishes can take a real toll on those that prefer them.

At Future Method, we believe intimacy should be healthy, judgment-free and safe for everyone, which includes eliminating the stigma around things like the most common sexual fetishes, where two consenting, safe, non-violent adults are involved. We also believe in making proper education backed by science accessible, which is part of our mission and why we run this blog!

This Is About Curiosity, Not Judgment

There is no single “normal” when it comes to desire.

People of all genders, orientations, and backgrounds explore different interests. What matters is not fitting into a category, but understanding what feels right for you.

Curiosity is part of being human. The goal is not to label yourself, but to learn more about your own comfort, boundaries, and preferences.

What are the Most Common Fetishes?

While this isn’t the complete glossary of terms when it comes to kinks and fetishes, the most common include:

• Masochism: Masochism falls under the BDSM umbrella. Masochists derive pleasure from receiving pain.
• Group Sex: Group sex involves threesomes, foursomes and orgies and can involve single people or couples.
• Sadism: Sadism is another term that falls under the BDSM umbrella
  Sadists derive pleasure from inflicting pain on a sexual partner.
• Sports Gear: Sports gear enthusiasts find sexual fetishes involving sports uniforms, pads, boots, cleats, straps and other equipment to be erotic, especially when worn on themselves or their sexual partners.
• Armpits: Licking, kissing and even penetrating is involved for those who enjoy armpit play. • Balloons: Also referred to as “looners,” some people enjoy blowing up and popping balloons during playtime.
• BDSM: BDSM involves erotic roleplaying in bondage, discipline, dominance and submission, sadomasochism and other sexual roles.
• Suits: If seeing someone in a uniform or business suit arouses you, you might have a suit kink. Suits are often associated with positions of power, which can lend itself to sexual dynamics.
• Used Underwear: It’s exactly how it sounds
  Some people enjoy smelling, licking and using used underwear for sexual gratification.
• Voyeurism: A voyeur is a common fetish with someone who derives sexual pleasure from watching others get it on, though it’s important to note this must be consensual.

Pondering all of this, we got to wondering–everyone’s got to be a little bit kinky, right? Even if not, there are certain sexual fetishes that are more prevalent than others, whether individuals will admit to it or not. We’ve peeked behind the curtain in Google search term volume to reveal the various types of kinks and most common fetishes that rose to the top of the list in every state. Our result? Read on to find out!

More Common Kinks You Asked About

Beyond the most searched categories, there are many other commonly discussed interests that people are curious about.

Edging

Delaying orgasm to build intensity over time.

Exhibitionism

Enjoying being seen in a sexual or intimate context. This should always be practiced with consent and in appropriate settings.

Foot Fetish

A focus on feet as a source of attraction or stimulation.

Latex or Rubber

Interest in specific materials, often connected to how they feel, look, or smell.

Sensory Play 

Using touch, temperature, or restriction of senses to create different physical experiences.

People experience these interests in very different ways. Curiosity, communication, and comfort are what make exploration positive.

Kink vs. Fetish and Safety Basics

Before getting into the list, it helps to clarify a few terms.

A kink is a broad term for any sexual interest or activity that falls outside what someone considers their “standard” experience. A fetish typically refers to a more specific focus on an object, body part, or scenario that plays a central role in arousal.

Not everyone uses these terms the same way, and that is okay.

What matters most is how people engage with these interests. Healthy exploration is built on:

• Clear, ongoing consent
• Open communication about boundaries
• Agreed-upon signals or safewords when needed
• Aftercare, or checking in with each other after an experience

The goal is not just exploration, but also mutual comfort, trust, and respect.

Common Fetish Map of the United States of America

 

In all its glory, we present the Fetish Map of the United States of America. Which fetishes is your state Googling the most?

We have to commend Texas for staying true to its rodeo roots with a fascination with whipping. The same goes for tough, business-like New York with its leather fetish, and stifling hot Nevada with its…armpit fetish? Okay, that was a stretch. No offense to Nevada.

Some of the most common fetishes in the United States include masochism, group play, sadism, sports gear, and armpits, in fact. Clearly, BDSM has a strong presence, and so do some other fun ways to play with your partner.

This map displays the most commonly searched fetish in every state, but many may also be considered kinks. Wondering the difference, and maybe what some of these fetishes mean? Check out this handy guide to fetishes from A to Z.

Most Common Sexual Fetishes Map of the U.S. by Region

The map below organizes the popular & most common fetishes in the South, West, Northeast, and Midwest.

 

As you can see, masochism, sadism, or BDSM as a whole are sexual fetishes that are popular in three out of the four U.S. regions–except for the Midwest. We suppose they’re just too polite! Instead, Midwesterners prefer sports gear and group play, though, so maybe they’re not so innocent after all.

In the South, suits are another most common fetish. The Northeast has a whopping nine tied for most popular, including BDSM, sadism, balloons, edging, group play, leather, nylons, sounding, and of course, the classic foot fetish. What’s going on up there, northerners? It certainly sounds fun.

How We Built This Data

This analysis is based on aggregated search behavior across the United States, focusing on commonly searched terms related to kinks and fetishes.

To create a clearer picture:

• Similar terms were grouped together
• Regional variations were normalized
• Results were compared across states to identify patterns

It’s important to note: search data reflects curiosity rather than actual behavior. It shows what people are interested in learning about. Therefore, it is best understood as a snapshot of cultural interest and not a definitive ranking of personal preferences.

Legality and Ethics Notes

Some topics in this list are often misunderstood.

It’s important to remember:

• Consent is essential in all situations
• Activities involving other people should always be clearly agreed upon
• Public or non-consensual behavior can have legal consequences
• Respect for privacy and boundaries is non-negotiable

Understanding both the ethical and legal context helps ensure that curiosity stays respectful and safe.

The Most Searched Fetish in the United States

We tallied up the most popular fetishes in the United States in order. It makes for a fascinating list of kinks. You can view that chart of the most common fetishes below.

 

As seen in the graph above, the most common kinks in order are masochism, group sex, sadism, sports gear, armpits, balloons, BDSM, suits, used underwear, and voyeurism. We were surprised to learn that there are so many unique popular fetishes in the U.S. Many states have something they alone can call their favorite, which just goes to show how varied human desire can be! And we think that’s a beautiful thing.

Did the Sexual Fetish Map of the United States of America shock you, intrigue you, or teach you something new? We certainly hope so, especially the latter, as that’s our goal here on The Science of Sex. We encourage our readers to practice safe play and pay special attention to how they prepare to play, regardless of which sexual fetishes you enjoy, which can truly heighten any experience you choose to experience by adding an ever-important factor: peace of mind.

Play Safely and Stay Informed

Some interests involve a higher level of physical or emotional intensity. In these cases, safety becomes especially important.

General guidelines include:

• Start slowly and build trust over time
• Check in regularly with your partner
• Avoid situations where communication becomes difficult
• Stop immediately if something feels wrong

If an activity involves discomfort, pressure, or unfamiliar sensations, it should always be approached with extra care and clear boundaries.

Exploration should never come at the expense of safety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kinks and Fetishes

What’s the difference between a kink and a fetish?

A kink is a broad term for any sexual interest or activity that falls outside someone’s usual or expected experience.

A fetish is more specific. It typically refers to a strong focus on a particular object, body part, or situation that plays a central role in arousal.

All fetishes can be considered kinks, but not all kinks are fetishes.

What matters most is not the label, but how people engage with these interests. Clear communication, consent, and mutual comfort are what make exploration healthy.

Is exhibitionism or public sex legal?

In most places, sexual activity or exposure in public settings where others have not consented is illegal.

This includes situations where bystanders may be present or could be exposed without their knowledge.

People who are interested in exhibitionism typically explore it in:

• Private, consenting environments
• Designated adult venues or events
• Situations where all participants have agreed

Understanding legal and ethical boundaries helps ensure that exploration remains respectful and safe.

What does edging do and how long can it last?

Edging involves bringing yourself close to orgasm and then pausing or slowing down before reaching it.

Some people find that this builds intensity and increases awareness of their body’s responses.

There is no set timeframe. For some, it lasts a few minutes. Others may extend it longer depending on comfort and preference.

The key is paying attention to your body. If something feels uncomfortable or no longer enjoyable, it’s a sign to stop or reset.