Atlanta ranks among top U.S. cities to get married, but not the South’s best

From Florida to Georgia and back again, the South is home to four of 2025’s five best U.S. cities to get married in. That’s according to WalletHub, a personal finance company and prolific U.S. city ranker.

Atlanta couples looking to tie the knot especially have reasons to be excited right now, as the Peach State’s capital came in fourth overall — beating out 178 of the most populous cities nationwide.

To determine the best cities in the U.S. for getting married, WalletHub assessed 182 cities — including the 150 most populated — across three major categories: costs, facilities/services and activities/attractions.

“When weddings can cost tens of thousands of dollars and prices have only become even more outrageously 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,” according to WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo. “Certain cities also make wedding planning easier with an abundance of options for wedding essentials, from florists to videographers to venues. The more options a city has, the more likely you are to receive competitive pricing and to find places that can work with your optimal schedule.”

Featuring the most flower and gift shops per capita and some of the best facilities and services overall, Orlando, Florida, took home WalletHub’s top spot as 2025’s best city in the U.S. to get married in. According to financial writer Adam McCann, the Sunshine State’s top ranking town earned its place for its practicality.

In his in-depth look, McCann explained that Orlando has easily available wedding services — including the number of venues and DJs on hand. While ranking quite low for costs, Las Vegas ultimately earned second place overall — gaining high marks for its attractions.

Ranking just above Atlanta, Miami wasn’t far behind in third place. The tourist hot spot notably topped the facilities and services category rankings nationwide. It’s also worth noting that a third Florida town made it into the top five: Tampa.

Atlanta may be one of the best places to get married this year, but no state seems to tie the knot better than Florida in 2025. Still, the Peach State’s capital earned high marks across all categories. Atlanta ranked fourth in facilities/services, 12th for activities/attractions and has the third cheapest costs out of the top-five cities.

Credit: Courtesy

Credit: Courtesy

La Salle University assistant professor April Lancit, who also directs its marriage and family therapy program, offered WalletHub some quick tips for couples planning a wedding on a budget. By following three rules, budding couples can boost their odds of pulling off a perfect ceremony.

“Rule #1: Set your maximum number and stick to it like glue,” she said. “Scout potential venues and compare costs to get a clear picture of what’s realistic. If your dream spot feels too pricey, don’t despair — there’s always a creative alternative nearby.”

Secondly, as a couple, list your nonnegotiables for the big day. Setting your shared priorities early can help ensure the wedding goes off without a hitch. Through compromise, Lancit added, couples can make their weddings even greater moments of togetherness.

“Rule #3: Remember, it’s just one day,” she said. “It’s a magical, unforgettable day, but it doesn’t have to break your pockets. Reflect on your journey as a couple and your shared future. Keep your long-term goals in mind as you budget, and embrace the journey of learning to compromise. It’s all part of building a life together (sic).”

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