NYC ranked most romantic US city despite shaky reputation for singles — while this surprising Deep South city cracks the top 5

Gotham’s got ‘em Google-y eyed.
Despite the subway exhaust fumes, gloomy rain clouds and the occasional gusts of Canadian wildfire smoke, love is in the air over the Big Apple, newly crowned the No. 1 city for romance in the US.
It’s an extraordinary accolade for a locale recently deemed the graveyard in which singles are most likely to die alone. But, hey, the winds of fortune can, apparently, change in a New York minute.
With a skyscraper-embellished skyline that served as the backdrop for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s July nuptials, and a host of haute haunts where VIP paramours Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner, as well as Rihanna and A$AP Rocky, frequently frequent, New York City outranks the rest in amore-related internet inquiries, per new data via dating app, Agilis.
Researchers analyzed Google searches across 30 cities for 28 love-themed terms, including “romantic getaways,” “date night ideas,” “proposal locations,” “anniversary ideas,” and “romantic restaurants,” then adjusted the results based on population.
The investigators discovered that NYC produces over 212 romance-related searches per 100,000 residents — impressive considering the city’s longstanding bad rap as the “worst” place for dating.
The kinesis of the concrete jungle bested the southern charms of Nashville, Tennessee, and Austin, Texas, which each boast 201 and 200 romantic searches, respectively.
“New York taking the top spot makes sense when you consider the sheer variety of experiences available to couples,” Jehan Rajendra, founder of Agilis, said in a statement. “From Central Park walks and rooftop dinners to Broadway shows and countless restaurants, there are plenty of ways to plan a memorable date.”
But an unforgettable outing with a fling is not the most pressing thing on New Yorkers’ minds, according to the findings.
Surprisingly, “wedding venues” led the pack as the premier Google search across the five boroughs, revealing just how badly local loners want to get hitched. Those vying for a ring, however, should be mindful that NYC is one of the most expensive hotspots for tying the knot.
Here are the top five most romantic cities in America.
New York, New York
Earning the high engagement across all categories, from romantic walks and hotels to couple activities and date night ideas, the city shines as the ideal destination for popping the big question, celebrating a milestone anniversary or enjoying a sweet escape as sweethearts.
Nashville, Tennessee
Securing the second place position with 201.5 searches per 100,000 residents, Nashville’s incomparable music scene, nightlife and kindly hospitality makes it a hot hub of love for couples seeking a lively, yet laidback atmosphere.
Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas, ranked third in the top five roundup, recording 200.1 romance-related searches per 100,000 people. The city stood out for date night ideas and romantic weekend trips, owing to its many cultural activities and outdoor adventures.
Chicago, Illinois
With 188 searches per 100,000 residents, Chicago takes fourth place on the roster. Thanks to its breathtaking lakefront setting and exciting culinary scene, the Windy City wows with its popular wedding venues and romantic dining experiences.
Jacksonville, Florida
While marriage proposals and big day ceremonies abound at Walt Disney World near Orlando, Florida, it seems Jacksonville, a city over 150 miles north of the most magical place on earth, is the fifth-most romantic place in the nation. With 187.9 love-inspired searches, Jacksonville, Florida, ranks No. 5 on the list for its waterfront restaurants, outdoor spaces, stunning coastlines and sunset cruises.