STATE OF SNAP
How does SNAP usage differ across the United States?
Numerator’s State of SNAP analysis breaks out SNAP & WIC trips by state to show how benefit usage has progressed regionally over the past six years. Understanding how SNAP & WIC usage varies across the country can help brands and retailers localize their offerings to reach consumers most in need.
SNAP & WIC Trends by State
SNAP usage is declining and new policy changes may deepen the divide. After peaking during the pandemic, SNAP participation has fallen in most states, especially following the end of Emergency Allotments in 2023. Some states, like California and Hawaii, remain elevated, while others, including Arkansas and Wisconsin, have returned to near pre-COVID levels.
But a new federal proposal could accelerate these trends. The recently talked about tax bill would tighten eligibility, expand work requirements, and shift more SNAP funding to states. Updates to the program could force states to cut benefits or opt out entirely. As a result, access to food assistance may soon depend less on need—and more on geography.
Regional SNAP & WIC Trends
Nationally, SNAP usage dropped from 4.6% to 3.7% of grocery trips year-over-year. While this decline is widespread, some regions are seeing sharper shifts. The West South Central and West North Central divisions saw the steepest drop in SNAP trips, down 24% and 26% respectively. Areas like East South Central and West North Central have seen basket sizes drop both in spend and units, suggesting that the remaining SNAP users may be consolidating trips or shopping more efficiently.
Visit our SNAP Insights Hub to learn more.
Numerator’s SNAP Insights Center brings together our latest research on shopping trips where SNAP / WIC benefits are leveraged and the households using these programs.