The Best and Worst Places to Get Married in the U.S.: A Comprehensive Guide

Getting married is one of the most significant events in a person’s life, and choosing the right location can make all the difference. A recent study by WalletHub has revealed the best and worst cities in the United States to tie the knot, based on factors such as cost, availability of wedding services, and overall convenience. This guide will walk you through the findings, highlighting the top destinations for a budget-friendly and stress-free wedding, as well as the cities to avoid if you’re looking for an affordable and hassle-free experience. Whether you’re a bride-to-be, a groom, or someone helping plan a loved one’s big day, this information is invaluable.

The Best Cities for a Wedding in the U.S.

Orlando, Florida, has been crowned the best city to get married in the U.S., according to WalletHub’s study. The city’s high ranking is attributed to its abundance of wedding-friendly services, such as videographers, DJs, and flower shops, ensuring that couples have plenty of options to choose from. Additionally, Orlando boasts the second-highest number of hotels per capita in the country, making it an ideal location for out-of-town guests. What’s more, its three-star hotels are surprisingly affordable, especially for a major city.

Florida dominates the top 10 list, with four cities—Orlando, Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale—making the cut. Other notable cities include Las Vegas, Nevada, known for its vibrant atmosphere and endless entertainment options, and Austin, Texas, which offers a unique blend of cultural attractions and affordable venues. Rounding out the top 10 are Atlanta, Georgia; San Francisco, California; Houston, Texas; and New Orleans, Louisiana, each offering its own unique charm and practical advantages for wedding planning.

The Worst Cities for a Wedding in the U.S.

On the flip side, some cities in the U.S. are far less welcoming for couples looking to tie the knot. Pearl City, Hawaii, tops the list of the worst places to get married, likely due to its remote location and limited access to affordable wedding services. Connecticut and California also have multiple cities in the bottom 10, with Bridgeport, Warwick, and Fremont being particularly challenging for wedding planning. Other cities that made the worst list include South Burlington, Vermont, and Chula Vista, California, where high costs and limited options can make planning a wedding a logistical nightmare.

The study highlights that these cities often lack the infrastructure and affordability that couples need to make their big day stress-free. From high prices for hotel rooms to a scarcity of wedding vendors, these destinations present significant challenges for anyone looking to host a wedding.

Key Factors in Determining Wedding-Friendliness

WalletHub’s study analyzed 26 key indicators to determine the wedding-friendliness of each city. These factors were broadly categorized into cost and availability of services. Under the cost category, the study considered the average wedding cost, the price of hotel rooms, and the affordability of wedding-related logistics. For services, the focus was on the availability of wedding chapels, event spaces, makeup artists, hair salons, bridal shops, and limousine rentals.

The study also took into account the number of attractions and activities available for wedding guests, as well as the city’s popularity as a travel destination and its weather. By combining these metrics, WalletHub created a comprehensive ranking that helps couples identify the most convenient and cost-effective locations for their wedding.

Expert Insights on Wedding Planning

Chip Lupo, an analyst at WalletHub, commented on the significance of choosing the right city for a wedding. "When weddings can cost tens of thousands of dollars and prices have only become even more inflated in recent years, it pays to hold your wedding in a city that’s affordable, both for those paying for the wedding and for guests who will need to make accommodations," he said. Lupo also emphasized that certain cities make wedding planning easier by offering an abundance of options for wedding essentials, such as florists, videographers, and venues.

This advice underscores the importance of researching and selecting a location that aligns with your budget and preferences. With so many factors to consider, couples should prioritize cities that offer both affordability and convenience to ensure their special day is nothing short of perfection.

Final Thoughts for Couples Planning Their Wedding

For couples looking to tie the knot, the decision of where to get married is just as important as the decision to get married itself. While Orlando and other top-ranked cities offer a wealth of options and affordability, it’s crucial to weigh these factors against personal preferences and the overall vision for your wedding. On the other hand, cities like Pearl City and Bridgeport may offer unique charm but come with higher costs and logistical challenges.

Ultimately, the key to a successful wedding is finding a location that balances your needs, budget, and aspirations. By doing your research and considering the insights from WalletHub’s study, you can make an informed decision that sets you up for a beautiful, memorable, and stress-free wedding day. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway or a local celebration, the right city can make all the difference.