These are the best places to get married in the U.S. based on cost-effectiveness

When it comes to getting hitched, the backdrop you choose can make or break not just your Instagram feed but your entire budget. With the average U.S. wedding ringing in around tens of thousands of dollars, location now matters almost as much as the dress or the dinners. That’s the takeaway from WalletHub’s latest study identifying the best places to get married in the U.S., a comprehensive ranking of more than 180 cities based on 26 metrics that couples and planners most care about, from cost and vendor options to activities for guests and overall fun. 

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Topping the list is Las Vegas, the perennial wedding fantasy for couples who crave a bit of spectacle. While you might think Vegas is all novelty chapels and Elvis-style vows, the data shows it excels in a range of practical areas too, ranking near the top for vendors and attractions. Las Vegas isn’t necessarily the cheapest option, but its wide range of services and high entertainment value make it a compelling choice for couples aiming to give guests  (and themselves) a memorable experience. 

Hot on its heels is Orlando, Florida. Yes, really. Orlando’s strength lies in its sheer infrastructure: plentiful venues, an abundance of florists, photographers and party rentals, and a high number of hotel rooms per capita that can help keep guest accommodations affordable. It’s also kid-friendly and entertainment-rich, a boon for destination weddings that lets families linger for the weekend. 

Miami comes in third, perfect for couples who imagine exchanging vows against a backdrop of palm trees, ocean breezes and vibrant nightlife. Beyond beach weddings, Miami stands out for its vendor density, from makeup artists and bartenders to limos and gear rentals, giving planners plenty of choice. It also scores well for food and activities for guests, helping make your big day feel like a full-on vacation. 

The South gets strong representation too: Atlanta ranks fourth thanks to solid vendor options and cultural attractions, while Tampa rounds out the top five with a balance of cost, services and Floridian sunshine. Coming in at No. 6 is Austin, with Houston, Fort Lauderdale, San Diego and Los Angeles making the top 10. 

What WalletHub’s analysis makes clear is that picking where to get married is no longer just a matter of sentiment and scenery. The best cities combine accessibility, vendor choice, guest-friendly logistics and destinations worth exploring. At a time of high wedding costs and crowded vendor calendars, that insight might be just as valuable as the dress fitting itself.

Here is the full list of the top 20 places to get married based on cost-effectiveness: