When conversations about intimacy feel too awkward or questions about sex seem too embarrassing, many people turn to the internet for answers.From exploring different sexual positions to delving into fetishes, online searches reveal a engaging trend: some of the most conservative states in the U.S. are also the most curious about sex.
According to Amy Williams, CEO of Peachy, “Curiosity about sex is a natural part of being human, especially in places where open discussions about intimacy may still be considered taboo.” she adds, “In an age where virtually everyone has access to the internet, young people can feed their curiosity about certain subjects without the shame that comes from asking potentially unaccepting adults.”
Utah, a state known for its conservative values, topped the list with a perfect score of 100 for the most salacious online searches. With 42% of its population belonging to the Mormon church and 59% voting Republican in 2024, Utah’s top searches included terms like “BDSM,” “polyamory,” and “voyeurism.” This trend wasn’t unique to Utah; other traditionally conservative states like Nevada and Georgia also ranked high.
Interestingly, cultural taboos around sexuality in conservative areas frequently enough drive curiosity online. At the same time, more progressive attitudes in liberal-leaning states can spark similar levels of interest. New York and Washington, both culturally diverse and progressive, also made the top five. New York, in particular, scored 96.12, earning the second spot. Williams attributes this to the state’s “naturally curious” population and its rich mix of cultural influences, which she believes fosters openness in all aspects of life, including sexuality.
Nevada, home to 3.2 million people, secured third place with a score of 90.63. While often associated with the free-spirited vibe of Las vegas, the state is a blend of conservative and liberal ideologies. Its rural areas lean conservative, while urban centers like Las Vegas embrace a more liberal mindset. This duality makes Nevada a unique case in the study of online sexual curiosity.
These findings highlight a broader truth: curiosity about sex transcends political and cultural boundaries.Whether driven by taboos or openness, people across the U.S. are turning to the internet to explore their questions about intimacy. As Williams aptly puts it, “Curiosity is worldwide, and the internet has become a safe space for people to explore it.”
Across the United States, the availability and quality of sexual education vary dramatically, influencing how people seek facts about intimate topics. In many cases, the lack of comprehensive sex education in schools drives individuals to turn to online searches for answers, revealing a gap in traditional resources.
Currently, only 36 states and the District of Columbia mandate that schools provide sex education. Of these, just 26 require the information to be medically accurate. This inconsistency leaves millions of students without access to reliable, science-based information about their bodies, relationships, and sexual health.
Take Nevada, for example. While the state requires schools to offer a human sexuality course, it is not a graduation requirement, and parental consent is mandatory for student participation. As an inevitable result, only a small percentage of students receive this education, leaving many to rely on alternative—and frequently enough less reliable—sources of information.
In contrast, Washington state has adopted a more progressive approach to sex education, earning it a high ranking in recent studies. Schools in the Evergreen State are required to teach comprehensive, medically accurate curricula that include lessons on safe sex and consent. This inclusive approach ensures that students are better equipped to make informed decisions about their health and relationships.
However, even in states like Washington, disparities persist. As Ms. Williams notes, “Even in states with generally progressive attitudes, there can still be disparities in education access, especially for LGBTQ+ youth.” This highlights the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities in accessing equitable education.
The data underscores how individuals seek answers independently when traditional resources fail to meet their needs, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive sex education and open dialog.
Georgia, another state with a mixed record on sex education, ranks fifth in recent assessments. Known historically as a Republican stronghold, Georgia has seen shifting demographics and increased political engagement in recent years. Despite these changes, the state’s sex education programs remain heavily focused on abstinence, leaving many students without critical knowledge about sexual health.
Ms. Williams emphasizes the broader implications of these findings: “The data speaks volumes about the way people seek out information on their own when traditional resources fall short. This study reminds us of the importance of comprehensive sex education and open conversations.”
These insights reveal a pressing need for more inclusive, accurate, and accessible sex education across the country. By addressing these gaps, policymakers and educators can empower individuals to make informed decisions, fostering healthier communities and reducing the reliance on potentially unreliable online resources.
