Display omitted •Proton conductive MOFs based on main-group metals were reviewed.•MOFs are classified in the light of the types of metals.•Proton conduction and conductve mechanism were discussed.•The future development trend of such MOFs was highlighted. Attracted by the excellent structural stability and structural diversity of the metal–organic frameworks based on main group metals, we review the proton conductive properties of such MOFs herein, and hope to provide comprehensive and accurate guidance for related research. The properties of these MOFs are classified and reviewed according to the types of main group metal elements (s-block and p-block). We mainly focus on the following aspects: preparation strategy and synthesis techniques, influence of organic ligands on the final structures, structural stability including thermal, water and chemical stability, the proton conductivity under humidity or anhydrous conditions, the proton conducting mechanisms, and the structure–property relationship. In the end, the highlights and deficiencies of the previous research and the future challenges and trend of the research will be highlighted.