Americans are ready to get out and celebrate this long 4th of July weekend.
While many plan to stay close to home and enjoy all the things their local communities offer, millions of people plan to hit the road, or sky, to check out a change of scenery.
This is the first time in two years of the COVID-19 pandemic that the 4th of July holiday will be fairly normal.
If you’re looking for a new place to explore, WalletHub released its 2022 Best & Worst Places for 4th of July Celebrations. Pick the closest city you haven’t visited and hit the road!
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The personal finance website looked at how well each city on the list balance cost and fun. That includes the cost of beer and wine, the legality and duration of fireworks shows, and even the weather forecast for the 4th.
Overall Ranking
Topping the list is San Francisco. The city topped the list when it comes to the holiday forecast. It also received high marks for attractions and it’s 4th of July celebrations. Of course it’s didn’t fare as well for affordability.
Los Angeles ranked second, mostly due to it’s massive options to celebrate the holiday. Washington D.C., Atlanta, and Las Vegas rounded out the top 5 cities on the list.
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There aren’t really any surprises on the popularity section of this ranking. All of America’s most popular cities make the cut.
Affordability
If you’re looking for something a little more affordable, Durham, North Carolina, claimed the top spot based on affordability alone.
It ranked high when it comes to the number of affordable restaurants, the average cost of a hamburger, and lowest price of a hotel.
Tulsa, Wichita, Fort Worth, and San Jose round out the top 5 on the list.
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Overall, this is where cities in the Midwest shine. There are also spots along each coast as well as the South.
If you’re looking for a last-minute road trip, there is an affordable city in almost every region of the country.
Safety
I was surprised that Jersey City, NJ ranked No. 1 for 4th of July safety.
The ranking considered the walkability of each city as well as access to public transportation and traffic congestion.
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It also looked at each city’s crime rate, pedestrian deaths, DUI-related deaths, and residents who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
If safety tops you list, but New Jersey is too far away, you have some other options.
Laredo, Texas, Madison, Wisconsin, Seattle, and Newark, New Jersey round out the top 5 on the list.
What do you think about WalletHub’s Best and Worst Places for the 4th list?