WalletHub Reveals Best U.S. Cities for Thanksgiving 2025 NOW

UPDATE: A new report from WalletHub has just ranked the best cities in the U.S. for Thanksgiving 2025, and the results are generating excitement! As 80 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home this holiday, knowing where to go is crucial for planning.

San Antonio, Texas, has claimed the top spot this year, rising from seventh place last year. The city offers an impressive number of restaurants rated at least 4.5 stars, along with numerous pumpkin patches and decoration shops. Residents display a strong enthusiasm for the holiday, reflected in high search interest for Thanksgiving-related terms. The report notes that San Antonio features the third-lowest cost for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and boasts a mere 1 percent chance of precipitation on the holiday.

Following closely, Atlanta has secured second place. This city is celebrated for its extensive selection of highly-rated restaurants and decoration retailers. Moreover, it ranks as one of the lowest in flight delays, with only 12 percent of flights being late last year, earning it the 11th place nationally. Atlanta also shines in charitable giving, with residents donating an average of 5.3 percent of their income.

In third place, Virginia Beach, Virginia, offers affordable lodging, with the lowest price for a three-star hotel during Thanksgiving at just $41. The city is also known for its variety of high-rated restaurants and low crime rates. Residents demonstrate generosity as well, donating nearly 5.8 percent of their income to charity, ranking 15th overall in generosity.

The full top ten cities in WalletHub’s report include:

1. San Antonio, Texas
2. Atlanta, Georgia
3. Virginia Beach, Virginia
4. Dallas, Texas
5. Scottsdale, Arizona
6. Irving, Texas
7. Plano, Texas
8. Louisville, Kentucky
9. Las Vegas, Nevada
10. Chesapeake, Virginia

WalletHub analyzed 100 of the most populated U.S. cities across five categories: Thanksgiving Celebrations & Traditions, Affordability, Safety & Accessibility, Giving Thanks, and Thanksgiving Weather Forecast. The analysis included multiple metrics such as dinner costs, hotel prices, crime rates, and volunteer opportunities.

Chip Lupo, an analyst at WalletHub, highlighted the factors contributing to San Antonio’s rise. He stated, “San Antonio jumped from seventh to first place this year thanks to big gains in affordability and holiday excitement. The city ranked among the top five for both the cost of Thanksgiving dinner and overall affordability, making it one of the best places to enjoy the holiday without breaking the bank.”

With perfect weather and strong community engagement, San Antonio’s winning combination is poised to attract many travelers this Thanksgiving.

Stay tuned for WalletHub’s annual updates on the best places to celebrate Thanksgiving, as this report will shape travel plans for millions across the country. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the holiday in one of these top cities!