Top 100 summer destinations amid rising travel costs

President Trump considers suspending federal gas tax

President Donald Trump said Monday he will move to suspend the federal tax on gasoline to help Americans shoulder surging fuel prices caused by the Iran war.

As millions of Americans prepare for summer vacations amid rising travel costs, a new report from personal finance website WalletHub is highlighting the nation’s most affordable and accessible travel destinations for 2026.

According to the study, roughly 72% of Americans plan to travel this summer, with 37% expecting to take more than one trip. But with airfare, gas prices and lodging costs continuing to climb, many travelers are looking for destinations that deliver the best bang for your buck.

To do so, WalletHub analyzed 100 of the nation’s largest metropolitan areas across 41 indicators, including airfare costs, hotel prices, attractions, dining affordability, safety and weather, to determine which cities offer the best overall summer travel experience without breaking the bank.

Atlanta, Orlando ranked top travel destinations

By the numbers:

Topping the rankings was Atlanta, praised for its combination of low-cost flights, wide range of attractions and vibrant nightlife. WalletHub found that nonstop flights to Atlanta from major U.S. cities could cost as little as $317. 

The metro area also scored highly for its abundance of spas, shopping centers, swimming pools and ice cream shops, making it attractive for families and young travelers.

Coming in second was Orlando, long known as one of the most popular family vacation hubs thanks to its world-famous theme parks. WalletHub noted that travelers can find nonstop flights to Orlando for around $373, while three-star hotel rooms can cost as little as $49 per night. The city also earned high marks for affordable dining and a wide variety of activities, including water parks, boat tours, shopping centers and wellness spas.

RELATED: More US airlines raise baggage fees: See the list

Austin, Texas, rounded out the top three.

See the full list of 100 cities here.

What they're saying:

"When picking a summer travel destination, it’s easy to focus just on the types of activities you want to do or certain cities you’ve always wanted to see," Chip Lupo, an analyst at WalletHub, said in a statement. "However, choosing a destination that’s not only entertaining but also affordable is important when travel, dining and activity costs have surged so much in recent years. It can also allow you to have a longer, more relaxing trip."

Travel prices surge amid inflation

Big picture view:

This data comes as travelers contend with a wave of price hikes on flights and baggage.

Surfers walk out of the Pacific Ocean after surfing during sunset at La Jolla Shores beach on April 9, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Credit: Kevin Carter/Getty Images)

Recent data found that domestic airfare is up roughly 19% compared to this time last year, with average median round-trip flight prices climbing from $412 to $489.  

RELATED: Summer airfare is much higher than last year; here’s how much prices are increasing

According to the findings, the lower end of the range tells an even higher story: rock-bottom fares are up nearly 23%, meaning the cheapest options have seen the steepest climb.

Meanwhile, international travel offers a more modest picture, up only about 3% year-over-year, with the average median round trip price climbing from $1,115 to $1,138.

What they're saying:

"At this point, we'd be more surprised if airlines didn't keep raising fees," Going wrote in a statement, adding, "As jet fuel costs soar, elevated ancillaries may be here to stay even after airline expenses come down."