Top 20 Christmas Cities, According to WalletHub

With the holiday season upon us, many Americans are eagerly making plans for their much-anticipated Christmas getaways. Whether it’s a trip to see family and friends, a romantic winter retreat, or a fun-filled adventure with loved ones, there are plenty of exciting options to choose from. The best Christmas destinations provide a variety of opportunities to get into the holiday spirit without a hefty price tag. 

According to a new report by the personal finance website WalletHub, Atlanta is the best city for celebrating Christmas this year! Vacationer isn’t 100 percent behind this list, but if you’re looking for affordable cities to celebrate the holiday, then maybe? The next best cities on WalletHub’s list are Pittsburgh, Orlando, FL, Las Vegas, and San Francisco. The report analyzed the 100 most populous cities across five key dimensions: traditions and fun, observance of Christmas, holiday generosity, shopping, and cost.

“Atlanta features the third-most bakeries as well as the sixth-most shopping centers and holiday decoration options, giving Atlantans more opportunities to find the best deals for their holiday celebration needs,” said Cassandra Happe, WalletHub analyst. 

“Pittsburgh is the runner-up for the best Christmas city title, featuring some of the lowest hotel room prices in the nation for your holiday travels and many affordable restaurant options if you’re looking to have an evening out. Orlando ranks third overall thanks to a wide variety of attractions, restaurants, and churches, making it an ideal location for those who want to spend their holiday outside the house. Nothing says Christmas like attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World or celebrating Grinchmas in Who-ville at Universal Orlando Resort.”

During the holidays, where you choose to spend your time can impact your budget. The more options you have for dining, lodging, and shopping, the better your chances of saving money. On top of that, inflation has added to the already substantial financial burden for Americans this year. A recent survey found that more than 1 in 3 Americans are forgoing gifts this year due to inflation, emphasizing the impact that the current economy has had on consumers’ spending habits.

“Inflation is weighing heavily on consumers’ minds, as well as their budgets this holiday season,” remarked Happe. “Whether we find ourselves in what amounts to a humble modern-day manger or one of the best cities for budget-friendly Christmas celebrations, the most important thing is to spend quality time with loved ones and create lasting memories. By doing so, we can find joy and inspiration in the true spirit of the season.”

We’re curious… what’s your favorite place to celebrate the holidays? Spill the tea!