New England's captivating landscapes have long been a magnet for Hollywood, serving as the perfect backdrop for countless chilling horror movies. From the eerie forests of Maine to the quaint villages of Vermont, the region's unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm has made it a prime filming location for some of the most iconic and unsettling cinematic experiences. Delving into the data, a recent study by Giggster, a leading platform for booking filming locations, has shed light on the spookiest states in the country when it comes to horror movie production.

Unraveling the Haunting Allure of New England's Cinematic Landscapes

Ranking the Spookiest States

Giggster's study examined the number of horror movies filmed per capita in each state, revealing a surprising dominance of New England in the rankings. Maine, Vermont, and Rhode Island all made the list of the spookiest states, showcasing the region's enduring appeal for filmmakers seeking to capture the essence of terror on the silver screen.

Maine: The Epicenter of Horror

Topping the list, Maine boasts an impressive 10.68 horror movies filmed per 100,000 population, with a total of 149 chilling productions shot within its borders. The state's haunting landscapes, from the eerie forests of Bangor to the rugged coastlines of Hancock and Ellsworth, have provided the perfect canvas for some of the darkest Stephen King adaptations, including the bone-chilling "Pet Sematary."

Vermont: The Green Mountain State's Cinematic Scares

Ranking seventh on the list, Vermont has played host to 34 horror movies, equating to 5.25 films per 100,000 residents. The state's picturesque villages and serene natural settings have served as the backdrop for a diverse array of spine-tingling tales, each one adding to the state's growing reputation as a hub for cinematic terror.

Rhode Island: A Haunting Hotspot

Coming in at number eight, Rhode Island has seen 54 horror films shot within its borders, translating to 4.93 movies per 100,000 population. The state's rich history and architectural gems have provided the perfect canvas for filmmakers seeking to capture the essence of the macabre, from the eerie mansions of Newport to the haunting landscapes of the Narragansett Bay.

Iconic Horror Movie Locations

Beyond the New England states, Giggster's study also highlighted some of the most iconic horror movie locations across the United States. These include the Overlook Hotel from "The Shining," Camp Crystal Lake from the "Friday the 13th" series, and the infamous "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" house in Kingsland, Texas. Even the idyllic island of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, has played a starring role as the setting for the classic thriller "Jaws."

The Enduring Allure of New England's Cinematic Landscapes

The findings of Giggster's study underscore the enduring appeal of New England's cinematic landscapes for horror filmmakers. From the towering pines of Maine to the quaint villages of Vermont and the historic grandeur of Rhode Island, the region's unique blend of natural beauty and haunting charm has captivated audiences for decades, cementing its status as a prime destination for the creation of some of the most chilling and unforgettable horror movies in cinematic history.