Reed canary grass is native to temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. In North America, it is found throughout most of the United States, as well as much of Canada, and ranges north to Alaska.

Seeds of European stock were imported to the United States around 1924. It was originally introduced for forage and its ability to control erosion.

In the U.S., this species has become a serious wetland weed. It is thought that invasive strains have resulted from cross-breeding of native stock with cultivars brought from Europe.