Photo by Eric Spiegel

D.C. is not a city known for romance, unless you’re talking about the love connections made reguarly between lobbyists and politicians. (Political humor! On a Friday!)

But according to Rent.com, Washington is one of the 10 best U.S. cities for newlyweds. No, they did not fulfill our constant need for validation by ranking the cities in any particular order. “This list is based on the number of married couples, families with children under six (since many newlyweds are putting down roots for a future family), mean annual income, cost of living, and rental availability in each city,” according to a press release. Very romantic, indeed!

Curious as to what else makes out city so appealing to couples who have recently entered into a legal contract together? The press release continues, “Our capitol city offers a wide breadth of romantic opportunities for newlyweds to enjoy depending on what peaks their fancy – everything from cultural excursions (a la the Smithsonian) to political events to walking through slices of history at every street corner.”

Public service announcement: Romantic Smithsonian spots include the ocean hall in the National Museum of American History, not its hallway full of dead animals, as well as the planetarium at the National Air and Space Museum.

“With a high mean annual income, newlyweds are more likely to be able to enjoy all that the city offers,” the release concludes, confirming that money can buy happiness.

Other cities on the list include Dallas; Seattle; Raleigh, N.C.; Minneapolis, San Diego, San Jose, Calif.; Tulsa, Okla.; Houston; and Charlotte.

Courtesy Rent.com.