San Diego, December 9, 2025
San Diego, California, has earned recognition as the 21st most fun city in the United States for 2025, according to WalletHub’s latest analysis. While the city shines in entertainment and recreation, ranking 6th in that area thanks to its famous beaches and diverse dining options, it struggles with affordability, positioned at 167th. Comparatively, San Francisco ranks 7th, Los Angeles 17th, and Sacramento 30th, showcasing San Diego’s competitive appeal in California’s lifestyle and tourism landscape.
San Diego Ranks Among America’s Most Fun Cities in 2025
San Diego, California has been recognized as the 21st most fun city in the United States for 2025, according to a recent report by WalletHub. The city excelled in entertainment and recreation, securing the 6th position in this category, but faced challenges in affordability, ranking 167th.
Top-Ranking Cities
The top five cities in WalletHub’s “Most Fun Cities in America” list are:
- Las Vegas, NV
- Orlando, FL
- Miami, FL
- Atlanta, GA
- New Orleans, LA
San Diego’s Performance
San Diego’s high ranking in entertainment and recreation is attributed to its world-class beaches, parks, hiking trails, water sports, and a diverse array of dining options. However, the city’s affordability remains a concern, with a ranking of 167th in this category, indicating that enjoying all the city has to offer can be expensive.
Comparison with Other California Cities
Within California, San Francisco leads as the most fun city, ranking 7th overall. Los Angeles follows at 17th, and Sacramento is 30th. This positions San Diego as a competitive destination for residents and visitors seeking a vibrant lifestyle.
About the Study
WalletHub evaluated 182 cities based on three key metrics: entertainment and recreation, nightlife and parties, and costs. The study considered factors such as the number of attractions, restaurants, movie theaters, music venues, and golf courses per capita, as well as average prices for food, beer, and wine.
Conclusion
San Diego’s diverse offerings in entertainment and recreation contribute to its appeal as a fun city. While affordability remains a challenge, the city’s vibrant culture and amenities continue to attract residents and visitors alike.
FAQ
- What is San Diego’s ranking in WalletHub’s 2025 “Most Fun Cities in America” list?
- San Diego ranks 21st overall in WalletHub’s 2025 “Most Fun Cities in America” list.
- Which city topped the list?
- Las Vegas, NV, topped the list as the most fun city in America for 2025.
- What factors were considered in the study?
- The study evaluated cities based on entertainment and recreation, nightlife and parties, and costs, considering factors like the number of attractions, restaurants, movie theaters, music venues, and golf courses per capita, as well as average prices for food, beer, and wine.
- How does San Diego compare to other California cities?
- Within California, San Francisco ranks 7th, Los Angeles 17th, and Sacramento 30th, positioning San Diego at 21st overall.
- What are some of San Diego’s top attractions?
- San Diego is known for its world-class beaches, parks, hiking trails, water sports, and a diverse array of dining options.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Ranking | 21st in WalletHub’s 2025 “Most Fun Cities in America” list |
| Top-Ranking City | Las Vegas, NV |
| Study Criteria | Entertainment and recreation, nightlife and parties, and costs |
| San Diego’s Strength | Entertainment and recreation (6th place) |
| San Diego’s Challenge | Affordability (167th place) |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
