Kit KittlestadJul 1, 2025 3 min read

2025's Best & Worst Cities for July 4th Celebrations

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Looking for fireworks, festivities, and a little bang for your buck this Independence Day? WalletHub’s survey of the best cities for Fourth of July 2025 celebrations is here to help you plan the perfect red, white, and blue holiday. 

2025 Rankings: Best & Worst U.S. Cities to Celebrate Independence Day

Whether you’re into patriotic parades, budget-friendly fun, or massive firework displays, their annual list weighs it all, from weather forecasts to the cost of beer. Let’s dig into the highlights and surprises from this year’s WalletHub Fourth of July rankings.

How WalletHub Ranks the Cities

To find the top U.S. cities for July 4th, WalletHub compared the 100 largest U.S. cities using more than 18 key metrics, including:

  • The number of Fourth of July events per capita

  • The average beer and wine prices

  • The weather predictions

  • The public safety stats

  • Walkability 

Each category gets a weighted score, helping to determine where you're likely to have the best time without torching your wallet.

Best Cities for Fourth of July Celebrations In 2025

Taking the top spot in WalletHub’s Fourth of July rankings for 2025 is Los Angeles, California. The City of Angels is preparing to dazzle us with its unbeatable combo of fireworks shows, family-friendly festivals, and affordable entertainment options (especially for a big city). 

Add in that classic SoCal sunshine, and it’s easy to see why L.A. lit up the scoreboard this year. Other cities that made the top 10 include:

  • New York, NY: Unsurprisingly high, thanks to the iconic Macy’s fireworks show and seemingly endless ways to celebrate

  • San Francisco, CA: Excellent for walkability, safety, and waterfront festivities

  • Las Vegas, NV: If you’re looking for non-stop action and a party that never ends

  • San Diego, CA: Warm weather and family fun galore

  • Seattle, WA: Great safety scores and a vibrant lineup of events

  • Atlanta, GA: Budget-friendly options and a huge annual fireworks display at Centennial Olympic Park

  • Chicago, IL: Good mix of affordability and big city fun

  • Orlando, FL: Theme parks and fireworks? Yes, please

  • Washington, DC: The historical epicenter of July 4th, with patriotic vibes to spare

Fireworks over the Los Angeles Skyline.
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Worst Cities for Independence Day 2025

Not everywhere is bursting with star-spangled spirit. At the bottom of the list, Fremont, CA ranked as one of the worst cities for Independence Day 2025, largely due to fewer events and less affordability. Other cities that didn’t score so well include:

  • Hialeah, FL

  • Jersey City, NJ

  • Laredo, TX

  • Garland, TX

These spots tended to fall short in areas like entertainment options, accessibility, or costs.

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Planning Your Independence Day Travel 2025?

If you’re still mapping out your Independence Day travel for 2025, WalletHub’s breakdown is a handy resource for choosing a city that fits your celebration style, whether you’re traveling with kids, going solo, or planning a romantic fireworks-watching date. 

From firework extravaganzas in D.C. to beachside parties in San Diego, there’s no shortage of fun across the U.S.

Light Up Your Fourth: Find the Perfect City for Fireworks, Fun, and Freedom

If you're chasing the ultimate celebration this summer, the best cities for Fourth of July 2025 are where the fun, affordability, and fireworks all align. 

WalletHub’s rankings offer more than just bragging rights. They’re a helpful guide to make your Independence Day sparkle. Where will you be when the skies light up on July 4th?

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