WalletHub names top budget-friendly U.S. destinations for summer

Inflation may be stretching wallets thin, but it’s not stopping Americans from planning summer getaways.

According to recent surveys, many Americans plan to travel this summer and take more than one trip. However, with elevated gas prices and costly airfare, travelers want fun and affordable destinations.

To help travelers make smart decisions, WalletHub released its Best Summer Travel Destinations for 2025, ranking the 100 largest U.S. metro areas based on 41 key indicators of cost and convenience.

Unlike other travel rankings emphasizing beauty and scenery, WalletHub said its findings prioritize value, factoring in everything from the cost of a round-trip flight and local food prices to the number of attractions per destination.

According to WalletHub’s data, the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford metro area in Florida takes the top spot. It’s unsurprising, given that it has world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and abundant, affordable accommodations.

The Atlanta metro area comes in at No. 2, including suburbs like Alpharetta, Marietta and Smyrna. Atlanta scores high on accessibility, affordability, and attractions.

With a vibrant food scene, museums, outdoor parks, and one of the country’s busiest and often cheapest airports, Atlanta gives travelers plenty of reasons to visit.

Washington, D.C., lands in third place, offering many free museums and historic landmarks. Urban Honolulu ranks fourth for anyone willing to fly a bit farther, thanks to competitive travel prices and its unique mix of culture, nature, and sunshine.

Austin, Texas, a city known for live music, food trucks, and festivals, comes in fifth place.

Rounding out the top 10 are Cincinnati, Ohio, a surprising gem with low costs and great family attractions; Salt Lake City, Utah, a hub for outdoor adventure and scenic beauty; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a city known for its rich history and affordable eats; Miami, Florida, which offers beaches and nightlife without breaking the bank if planned smartly; and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, a sprawling metro area with diverse activities and top-notch dining.