Evander Jones
Imagine thriving in sports culture without a major league team—sounds impossible? These major U.S. cities don’t have a single franchise in leagues like the NFL or NHL, yet their passion for sports remains unmatched. They’ve built vibrant sports communities, supporting college teams and minor leagues that keep the excitement alive. Want to know which ones lead? Here are the lists.
El Paso, Texas
El Paso, Texas, home to over 678,760 residents, doesn’t have NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, or MLS teams. The city thrives on the historic Sun Bowl and its rich minor league baseball history, showing strong cultural and sports enthusiasm. This passion keeps El Paso vibrant despite the absence of major league franchises.
Fresno, California
In the heart of California’s Central Valley, Fresno stands as the fifth-largest city with over 540,000 residents. In spite of its size, there are no major league teams. Fresno’s spirit is embodied through its top-tier college football and once-hosted professional hockey team, the Fresno Falcons, before their departure in 2009.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach has a population of 449,625 but lacks major league sports teams. Situated inside the Hampton Roads metro area, it was once considered for an NBA expansion team. The city’s proximity to military bases impacts its planning, but it remains a top U.S. beach town with plenty of coastal appeal.
Bakersfield, California
Nearly 420,000 residents call Bakersfield home, and the city offers plenty despite not having a major pro sports team. Known for producing NFL talent, it also has a rich wrestling and rodeo history. Previously home to the NBA D-League’s Bakersfield Jam, its prime location between L.A. and Fresno makes it a hub for sports fans.
Mesa, Arizona
Can a city without NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, or MLS teams still be a sports and recreation hotspot? Mesa, with over 500,000 residents, proves it can. Part of the Phoenix metro, it hosts Chicago Cubs spring training and features golf resorts alongside stunning desert scenery to enjoy year-round.
Wichita, Kansas
Imagine living in Wichita, the largest city in the state, housing about 400,000 people yet lacking a major league team. The Wichita Wind Surge baseball team plays in a new $75 million stadium. The city hosted an NHL exhibition game and is known as the birthplace of Pizza Hut and White Castle.
Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage, home to 280,000 residents, lacks major league teams due to its remote location and logistical challenges. Instead, the city embraces minor league hockey and hosts the ceremonial start of Alaska’s iconic Iditarod sled dog event. Nearly 20 hours of daylight in summer help shape Anchorage’s unique sports culture and vibrant community events.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu, a capital with over 340,000 residents, remains without a franchise in the major professional leagues. Its isolated location creates travel challenges for leagues. However, the city once hosted the Hawaii Islanders minor league baseball team, and it still plays a significant role in professional sports by regularly holding the NFL Pro Bowl.
Riverside, California
Riverside sits within the booming Inland Empire and has grown beyond 310,000 residents. Though it lacks a major pro sports team, local pride runs high. High school football fuels much of the energy here, even as L.A.’s massive sports scene grabs the spotlight nearby.
Stockton, California
Despite having no major league franchise, Stockton thrives on sports pride. Home to more than 322,000 people, the city has produced top boxing talent and stands behind the University of the Pacific. Local passion holds steady, even with Bay Area favorites like the Giants and Warriors nearby.
