Weddings can be quite pricey affairs. It’s a well-known fact, but what might surprise you is that you can often save a significant amount of money just by crossing state borders.

The cost of getting married might be one reason why the age at which the average American adult ties the knot is steadily approaching 30. The varying costs of living and local incomes mean that getting married can be much less expensive in certain states compared to others.

While weddings are known to be costly wherever you go, there’s always a way to save some money by considering different locations. For example, if you reside in New York State, it would be wise to explore available deals. Recent research by Magnify Money shows that couples in New York spend an average of $34,300 on their weddings, which is equivalent to 53% of the state’s average annual income. Vermont closely follows as another state where weddings can be incredibly expensive. If you’re from the US Northeast region, chances are you might be overspending on your wedding.

If you are seeking the most budget-friendly location in the US to host your wedding, without factoring in other expenses like travel costs, you might want to consider heading South. Southern states offer great value for weddings and you can delight in some delicious southern cuisine for your celebration. Specifically, couples in Kentucky, Alabama, Tennessee, and Mississippi spend around 35%-36% of their household income on weddings. These states have lower income levels, which explains why weddings are less expensive there. So, if you fancy a vacation with pleasant weather and delectable food, a wedding in the South could be both satisfying for your taste buds and your wallet.