Number of Las Vegas weddings at 10-year low

LAS VEGAS, NV (KTRK) -- Las Vegas is known for gambling, world-class entertainment and weddings. However, the latest statistics from the county clerk show the number of people tying the knot in sin city is at a 10-year low.

KTNV-TV reports last year, the clerk's office issued close to 80,000 marriage licenses--far less than the 130,000 issued in 2004.

The decline is not just hurting the city's reputation, it's also hurting its pocketbook to the tune of a billion dollars a year. City officials say it's part of a growing trend of couples choosing not to elope.

Another factor is the price increase for marriage licenses in Las Vegas. Earlier this year, the price increased by $14 to $77 for a license in Clark county.

A plan to hopefully curb the problem is being finalized before being sent to county commissioners for review.