As we’re saying goodbye to January and welcoming the 2nd month of the year, also known as ‘lovers month’, this news comes at the right time. If you were trying to plan that perfect Valentine’s date – or, even pop the big question – you’re in the right place. A recent study by Shane Co. has crunched the numbers to find out which US cities are doing the heavy lifting in the romance department; and Vegas is the second most romantic city!
Vegas is one of the most romantic cities in the US
Honestly, it’s no wonder. Vegas offers the perfect mix of spectacle and value. You can snag a 3-course meal for 2 for an average of $80, leaving plenty of room in the budget for a show, or whatever else adds magic to your date-night. Additionally. Vegas has the highest marriage rate in the US!
Only in Vegas you can hit Paris without leaving the city, grab a Venetian gondola ride, catch a world-class DJ, or treat yourself to an amazing helicopter ride. If you’re looking to add more romance to your Valentine’s, but also a cute hit of nostalgia, don’t miss the ’90s Hip-Hop on Strings’ Candlelight concert – more info and tickets here.
Who else made the top?
It’s probably no surprise that New York City took the top spot. If you can’t find romance among almost 1,000 romantic restaurants, you might not be trying. From rowboat rides in Central Park to intimate, Moulin Rouge-style evenings at speakeasies, NYC offers everything from classic date night experiences to stylish nights out.
If the Big Apple isn’t your speed, but you’re still looking for a romantic escape, Miami took the bronze. It has the highest marriage rate per capita and plenty of unique date options, like Palmetto Bay for stargazing, rooftop cinemas, or horseback riding along the beach for unforgettable moments.
If you’re looking for romance on a budget, the study even figured out where you can have the most affordable dates. Aurora, Colorado, was named the most affordable city for a date night, with a full 3-course dinner for two averaging just $55.
Romance in 2026 looks a bit different
This year, romance is shifting away from grand displays and toward thoughtful intention. With hybrid work, rising costs, and packed schedules shaping daily life, couples are focusing on how they connect. Simple, meaningful moments – like unplugged evenings or rediscovering familiar parts of their city – are becoming the new expression of romance.
Looking ahead to proposals in 2026, Shane Co. says: “Proposals are becoming more thoughtful and reflective of a couple’s story. Choosing a location that already holds emotional significance, like where you first met, a favorite weekend spot, or a place tied to everyday routines, can feel more meaningful than a picture-perfect backdrop.”
Methodology
Engagement ring brand Shane Co. has conducted a study looking at the number of romantic restaurants and hotels, as well as the cost of a 3-course meal for 2. They also looked at search volumes for romance-related terms, marriage rates by state, and the number of florists and jewelry stores per capita.