15 Best Cities for Newlyweds

Marriage is a big step in a couple’s relationship, and it’s not one to take lightly.

Once the champagne is gone and the honeymoon is over, it’s time for newlyweds to start a real life together, and one of the most important decisions they will make is where to live. We’ve done some of the heavy lifting to make that choice a lot easier.

Taking overall affordability, entertainment, housing, employment opportunities and more into consideration, as well as referencing Ranker.com’s list of the best cities for young couples, we’ve compiled our list of the 15 Best Cities for Newlyweds.

From big to small, each city has its own unique qualities that are just as unique as the couples who choose to live there.

No, we’re not talking about Brooklyn, New York, even though that’s a great city, too. We’re talking about Brooklyn, Indiana, “the Town Seen from the East.”

Founded in 1854, Brooklyn, Indiana may be a small town (1,613 people, according to 2013 data), but it has a big heart. Your love will surely grow in Brooklyn.

Encinitas, California is known for being a leader in the ornamental flower industry, particularly poinsettias, but it also should be known for being a wonderful city for newly married couples. With affordable housing, quality jobs and exciting activities right at your fingertips, you won’t regret putting down roots in Encinitas.

Tucked away in picturesque Connecticut, you’ll find New Haven or “The Elm City.” If the breathtaking scenery (you’ll actually get four seasons!) doesn’t convince you and your soul mate to settle down here, maybe the inspiring ambiance will.

Irvine, California’s mission statement is “to create and maintain a community where people can live, work and play in an environment that is safe, vibrant and aesthetically pleasing,” and it certainly lives up to that reputation. As an influential business and tourism destination, your future as a couple looks bright in Irvine.

With the saying “Near Nature. Near Perfect,” Spokane, Washington is a fantasy made real for couples who love the outdoors and the arts. Let’s not forget that Spokane also has some of the best libraries, parks, schools and realty around.

With the motto Benigno Numine, or “By the favor of the heavens,” things will always go your way in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It doesn’t matter if you move to the north, south, east or west part of town because you and your boo will receive a warm welcome — guaranteed.

New Jersey tends to get a bad rap for no good reason, but we’re about to change that with our #9 best city for newlyweds: Newark. How could you hate first-rate museums, one of a kind food and a booming downtown? Also called “The Brick City” and “The Gateway City,” Newark is everything a newlywed couple could want and more.

How could you go wrong in a city that’s nicknamed “The Heartbeat”? Hartford is the heartbeat and capital of Connecticut, and with neighborhoods, jobs and schools as diverse as the people, you and your loved one will feel right at home here.

Nicknamed the “Village by the Sea,” Carlsbad, California may have the word “bad” in its name, but this incredible city is anything but. You might only intend to visit Carlsbad just for the fun, but everything else will convince you and your better half to stay forever.

Located in gorgeous Southern California is Santa Barbara, a city full of excitement and romance, as well as stability and advancement. From a thriving nightlife and sexy water sports, to unbeatable real estate and a variety of career choices, Santa Barbara is a dream come true for any couple.

Known as “The City of Oaks,” Raleigh, North Carolina is a beautiful town with the Southern charm to match it. A mix of fun and economical, Raleigh has great jobs, great food, great attractions and great people. Any newlywed couple would be lucky to call this place home.

When you think of Oakland, California, the Oakland Raiders is probably the first thing that pops into your mind, but we want you to also think of a city that will help your relationship flourish. Take a chance on Oakland — your new marriage will thank you.

As the second largest the city in Oklahoma, you two will never run out of opportunities for growth in Tulsa, whether that’s expanding your education, your culture, your hobbies or your family.

Beaches, bars, bikes — newlywed couples are truly living life in SaMo, but that’s not all this amazing city has to offer. Here you’ll also find a rich history, passionate neighbors, enchanting views right from your doorstep and so much more.

Ranked the #12 best place to live by Coldwell Banker in 2012, Berkley, Michigan is #1 on our list of the best cities for newlyweds, and for good reason. Thanks to the awesome schools, churches, recreation and community atmosphere, you and your SO will feel comfortable starting a family or simply enjoying life as a pair.