The shrewd dater knows that geography is just as important when you’re searching for love as anything else. But where best to situate yourself so that you can up your odds of actually finding Mr. Right? There are so many factors that go into the decision beyond just how many single men you can expect to encounter. Things like cost of living and entertainment options all matter. After all, what’s the use in finding love if you’re constantly broke or bored? Thankfully, the good folks at NerdWallet like statistics and they’ve done the homework, so all you need to do is sift through the options and pick the city where your true love is undoubtedly waiting for you.
1. San Francisco, California
Here’s one big takeaway: Single men love the West. Maybe it’s something to do with the cowboy history of America or something. Who knows? What is known, though, is that most of the cities where single men mingle are west of the Rockies. The capital of that movement is San Francisco, which tops the list because it’s full of single guys, the city is incredibly easy to navigate, and there’s a vibrant cultural scene to explore. Despite its reputation for being a LGBT town, there are plenty of single straight men in San Fran.
2. Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington wins points because it’s (obviously) cheaper than San Francisco. However, since the city is home to just as many unmarried men as women, your odds of finding an available fella are still pretty solid. The city also accommodates a much lower median income than San Fran and it’s still home to kickass culture.
3. Minneapolis, Minnesota
I know, you read Minneapolis and you immediately start to shiver, but what’s better than cuddling on a cold winter’s night when you’ve finally found the person you’re meant to be with? Single men outnumber single women here and you can’t knock the cost of living (a date will run you about $70). Throw in Minneapolis’ thriving bar and music scene and things don’t seem so cold anymore.
4. San Diego, California
It’s an even split in the singles department in San Diego, which is nice for an enterprising woman. Even if the search for love takes you longer than expected, though, few American cities are as gorgeous or as friendly. The weather gravitates between the 60s and the 70s all year round, the entire city is right next to the beach and there’s more to do on a given day in San Diego than there is in most American cities.
5. Austin, Texas
While most people have been working on keeping Austin weird, an unexpected off-shoot has been that Austin has been kept single, too. The Texas capital of culture provides tons to do for the single lady at a reasonable price (assuming you have a car) and there are plenty of single men roaming around to keep you company.
6. San Jose, California
While nowhere near as price-friendly as Austin or Minneapolis, San Jose is actually on the cheaper end of California cities. The average income is just under $40 grand and the city’s up and coming public transit system makes getting around both cheap and easy. You’re sure to find the right guy here, many who are gainfully employed in Silicon Valley ventures.
7. Long Beach, California
What it lacks in affordability, Long Beach makes up for in scenic beauty and entertainment options. Sure, the women might outnumber the men, but the ratio is really slight. Even still, the area’s storied diversity and beach culture should provide ample opportunities for meeting all different kinds of people.
8. Portland, Oregon
The capital of weed culture in the Northwest is also the cheapest city in the region. A date will run you a mere $65 (which is statistically cheaper than Minnesota), and $32 grand a year will set you up nicely. Add to that the city’s outdoorsy recreational options, plethora of brew pubs and distinctive cultural feel and you’re looking at a really special region of the country to met your soul mate.
9. Denver, Colorado
Not only is the ratio of single women very nearly equal to the ratio of single men, but Denver is a city on the up with tons of stuff to do for pretty much any kind of person. Athletic types can enjoy the nearby Rockies, music fans can enjoy any of the city’s thriving music venues, and Denver’s bar scene is second to none.
10. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is one of the most accessible cities on the list, as well as one of the most bustling. The town is simply stuffed with single men and all the distractions a single woman could hope for, whether you’re into the Hollywood scene, beach culture or whatever. The sheer size of LA promises much more opportunities for love and recreation than many other places.
11. Oakland, California
By the numbers, Oakland’s culture is just as bustling as San Francisco, it’s simply that the city is cheaper and the public transit is far superior. Of course, anyone who’s visited both cities could tell you they’re not exactly on the same tier, but Oakland residents can rest comfortably knowing that cosmopolitan San Fran is a hop, skip and a jump to the city.
12. Miami, Florida
If you’re a dyed in the wool East Coaster, then Miami is your best shot for finding love near the Atlantic. The city boasts a 1-to-1 singles ratio, as well as a low cost of living compared to many other cities on this list. If you’re into the beach and the club scene, then Miami is a jewel that’s just waiting for you.
13. Atlanta, Georgia
Sure, Atlanta may not have the appeal of Los Angeles or Portland, but the city is home to a different kind of man than you’ll find anywhere else. Anyone who’s been there knows they build ‘em differently in the South. If you don’t mind the city’s mediocre public transit, the culture in ATL is something to experience.
14. Las Vegas, Nevada
Looking for love in Las Vegas might not be as big a gamble as you think. With its relatively low cost of living (off the strip, at least), this growing American city is also home to plenty of fun for everyone, even if you’re not a big on the slots or tables. Roll the dice and you just might find true love here.
15. Tucson, Arizona
In Tucson, you’re going to need a car, because the public transportation is a little under-developed. In addition, the entertainment scene is slightly less advanced than the other cities on this list. That said, if you’re a thrifty dater, this is your city. The cost of living is extremely low and an average date will run you jut $60 (if you’re paying), which means you’ll have plenty of extra green to spend on your search.
