The ten most underrated cities in the US we are overlooking.
10 of the most underrated cities in the US, and famous attractions in each.
Takeaways:
- New research ranked the top ten most underrated US cities, and El Paso leads the way with a high climate comfort index and low crime rate. However, it attracts only 2 million tourists, one of the lowest numbers among the analyzed cities.
- Long Beach offers an outstanding balance between its high climate comfort index 9.3 and famous attractions, attracting 7 million tourists annually.
- Oklahoma City requires the lowest weekly budget of $677, making it the most affordable destination among the cities analyzed.
A recent research conducted a comprehensive study to identify the most underrated US cities to visit in 2025, analyzing 50 of the most populated cities in the country. The analysis was based on several key metrics: the number of annual tourists, climate comfort index, crime rate (per 100K), the annual income required to live comfortably, and the estimated weekly budget needed for a visit.
Additionally, some famous attractions in each city were highlighted to give further context. The cities were then ranked based on these factors to determine which offer the best value for future travelers.
10 Most Underrated Cities In The US
1. El Paso, Texas
El Paso is the most underrated city, attracting 2 million tourists annually. From the stunning views of Franklin Mountains State Park to the cultural experiences at the Plaza Theatre, the city is a hidden gem for travelers. While living comfortably here requires an annual income of $48,000 and a weekly budget of $692, the crime rate is relatively low, at 1,100, meaning visitors can explore its attractions with peace of mind.
Famous Attractions in El Paso
- Franklin Mountains State Park
- El Paso Museum of Art
- El Paso Zoo, Plaza Theatre
- Wyler Aerial Tramway
2. Bakersfield, California
Bakersfield comes in second, attracting 1 million visitors with its rich cultural history and famous spots like the Kern County Museum. The city enjoys a favorable climate with an index of 8.1. With a weekly budget of $815, you can explore Bakersfield’s western charm without overspending.
Famous Attractions in Bakersfield
- Kern County Museum
- California Living Museum (CALM)
- Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
- Hart Memorial Park
- Fox Theater
3. Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha ranks third, pulling in 13 million tourists annually. Beyond its zoos and museums, Omaha is a great budget-friendly destination. At a weekly cost of $723, it offers top-notch experiences at a fraction of the cost of larger cities.
Famous Attractions in Omaha
- Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
- Old Market District, Durham Museum
- Lauritzen Gardens, Joslyn Art Museum
4. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma City comes in fourth with 7 million visitors. It is known for its cowboy culture and attractions like the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Despite a higher crime rate, the city has the lowest weekly budget requirement among the cities analyzed, at $677, making it an affordable cultural retreat.
Famous Attractions in Oklahoma City
- Oklahoma City National Memorial
- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
- Myriad Botanical Gardens, Bricktown
- Science Museum Oklahoma
5. Mesa, Arizona
Mesa draws 1.1 million tourists to its vibrant arts scene and natural beauty. From the Arizona Museum of Natural History to Usery Mountain Regional Park, it’s an iconic destination for those seeking culture and outdoor adventures, all for a weekly budget of $1,131.
Famous Attractions in Mesa
- Mesa Arts Center
- Arizona Museum of Natural History
- Usery Mountain Regional Park
- Mesa Grande Cultural Park
- i.d.e.a. Museum
6. Tucson, Arizona
Tucson ranks sixth with 6 million visitors, offering rich desert landscapes and historic sites like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. It’s a charming city for those seeking a quieter, nature-centric getaway, with a weekly budget of $700, though the crime rate is higher at 2,520 per 100K.
Famous Attractions in Tucson
- Saguaro National Park
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Mission San Xavier del Bac
- Pima Air & Space Museum
- Sabino Canyon
7. Long Beach, California
Long Beach attracts 7 million tourists with its coastal views and iconic sites like the Queen Mary and Naples Island. With a perfect climate index of 9.3 (the best on the list) and a weekly budget of $1,354, it offers the best sun and surf for those seeking an upscale but accessible getaway.
Famous Attractions in Long Beach
- Aquarium of the Pacific
- The Queen Mary
- Shoreline Village
- Naples Island
- Rancho Los Cerritos
8. Fort Worth, Texas
Fort Worth, with 9.4 million visitors drawn to its western heritage and cultural hotspots like the Fort Worth Stockyards. The city balances affordability with attractions like the Kimbell Art Museum, offering a budget-friendly weekly cost of $1,046.
Famous Attractions in Fort Worth
- Fort Worth Stockyards
- Kimbell Art Museum
- Fort Worth Zoo
- Sundance Square
- Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
9. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach, with 19 million tourists visiting its famous boardwalks and beautiful coastal landscapes. Offering beach fun and history, including the Cape Henry Lighthouse, the weekly budget is $1,046, making it a popular but affordable summer escape.
Famous Attractions in Virginia Beach
- Virginia Beach Boardwalk
- First Landing State Park
- Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
- Cape Henry Lighthouse
- Military Aviation Museum
10. Fresno, California
Fresno rounds out the top ten with 1.7 million tourists annually, attracted to its unique attractions like the Forestiere Underground Gardens and the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. With a weekly budget of $815 and a crime rate of 1,905 per 100K, it’s an affordable getaway with plenty of family-friendly fun.
Famous Attractions in Fresno
- Fresno Chaffee ZooForestiere Underground Gardens
- Shinzen Japanese Garden
- Woodward Regional Park
- Island Waterpark
Source: DIPNDIVE