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Thinking about moving? Or maybe you’re just curious about where the best places to live in the U.S. are? With so many incredible cities across the country, choosing the right place to call home isn’t always easy.
You might want a good job, an affordable cost of living, excellent schools, or just a nice place to live. The U.S. has options for everyone, whether you prefer busy city life, quiet suburbs, or charming small towns.
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a city truly livable, highlight some of the top places to live across the country, and share a few tips to help you find the one that’s right for you. Let’s dive in!
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22 Best Places to Live in the US (Top Cities)
Some cities offer great job opportunities, affordable living, and fun activities. Each place has its own charm—perfect for different lifestyles.
1. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston offers a rich history and a top-tier quality of life. Massachusetts ranks as the best state to live in 2025, thanks to strong education, healthcare, and safety scores. The city is perfect if you want access to great schools or medical care.
Cambridge is nearby and known for its world-class colleges like Harvard.
The job market thrives here, with finance being a key industry. Public transit makes getting around easy. The mix of urban life with suburban options suits many lifestyles. You’ll also enjoy four seasons and plenty of cultural landmarks throughout the area!
2. Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine gives you a mix of city life and coastal beauty. You can enjoy the ocean while still having access to urban perks like great restaurants and art galleries. The city is known for its fresh seafood and creative food scene.
The cost of living is moderate compared to other Northeast cities. It’s also one of the safest places in the U.S., with low crime rates. Jobs in healthcare and education make it a solid choice if you’re looking for work-from-home jobs or stable careers.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking, boating, and exploring nearby natural areas year-round.
3. Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh draws many people with its strong economy and affordable living. It ranks third in migration and tops the list for young professionals in 2026. Jobs in tech, healthcare, and education fuel steady growth.
The city is a great fit for families and remote workers alike. You’ll find urban energy mixed with suburban comfort here. Its pet-friendly vibe, cultural spots, and quality of life make it stand out too.
4. Austin, Texas
Austin offers a vibrant lifestyle and a strong job market. The city ranks in the top 5 for hiring, with an average entry-level salary of $58,400. Known as a hotspot for tech professionals and entrepreneurs, it thrives with startups and innovation.
You’ll find no state income tax here, which makes Austin attractive for remote workers. Fast internet speeds keep you connected too. The area mixes urban excitement with affordability.
Music festivals, food trucks, and art scenes enhance its appeal. Many people are moving to Texas because of low costs and big opportunities…Austin leads that trend!
5. Naperville, Illinois
Naperville is perfect for families. The city ranks as one of the best places to live in 2026. It offers top-tier K-12 education and low crime rates, making it safe for kids. Schools here are known for high performance, attracting parents seeking quality education.
Housing is affordable compared to nearby cities, while household incomes remain high. Naperville’s suburban vibe fits those seeking a calm lifestyle with friendly neighbors. You’ll also enjoy parks, trails, and plenty of outdoor fun all year round—a great pick if you value safety and community!
6. Carmel, Indiana
Carmel, Indiana, offers a high quality of life. The population is about 106,425. Housing is affordable compared to incomes here. The median home value is $479,193, and the average rent is $1,455 per month.
Families love the city for its safe neighborhoods and short commutes. Most workers only travel 21 minutes to their jobs.
The area boasts a strong economy with high household incomes. Median income sits at $142,597 annually. Carmel also has numerous parks and trails for outdoor recreation. Its location in the Midwest gives it a friendly suburban vibe many people enjoy, while keeping costs reasonable for families or retirees looking to refinance their mortgages!
7. Denver, Colorado
Denver offers a mix of city life and outdoor fun. You can hike, ski, or explore nature easily from here. The city’s seasonal climate gives variety all year.
This place ranks high for remote work. Fast internet and great coworking spaces help you stay connected. Denver’s economy is strong, too, with lots of tech jobs nearby. The community vibe is active yet laid-back, perfect for work-life balance lovers in the western U.S.!
8. Seattle, Washington
Seattle offers a mix of city life and outdoor fun. Known for its mild climate, it gives you access to mountains and water year-round. The Pacific Northwest’s vibe includes sustainability efforts and a growing job market, especially in tech.
The city thrives on arts, culture, and food. You’ll find diverse neighborhoods with something for everyone. Its coffee scene is legendary too! Seattle attracts young professionals and remote workers who enjoy the balance between work opportunities and recreational activities.
9. Portland, Oregon
Portland is full of green spaces and parks. The city leads in sustainability efforts, making it a strong destination for eco-friendly living. It has mild weather and a mix of urban and suburban options that fit various lifestyles.
Its public transit system ranks high in convenience. You will also love exploring Portland’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Known for its bike-friendly environment, the city attracts remote workers, young families, and outdoor enthusiasts drawn to the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.
10. Boise, Idaho
Boise mixes affordability with a high quality of life. The cost of living here is lower than in many West Coast cities, making it attractive to families and retirees alike. You will find strong healthcare access and low crime rates in this city, too.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking trails, biking paths, and nearby rivers. Boise also has a lively arts scene with cultural festivals throughout the year. Its downtown area feels vibrant but still community-focused.
People of all ages, from young professionals to retirees, feel welcome here as the city grows fast economically and socially.
11. Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines offers great opportunities for families. Housing is affordable, and the community feels friendly and safe. You’ll find a mix of city conveniences and quiet suburban charm.
The cost of living is lower than in many U.S. cities.
The job market thrives here, especially in the finance and insurance industries. Commuting is easy with short travel times across the city. Arts festivals, cultural events, and local attractions keep life exciting.
The moderate climate makes it comfortable year-round, too!
12. Huntsville, Alabama
Huntsville offers affordable living with great job opportunities. It is known for jobs in engineering, aerospace, technology, and manufacturing. The city has a growing economy and attracts many new residents every year.
You can enjoy science museums, cultural spots, parks, and trails here. Families value the strong sense of community and family-friendly neighborhoods. If you like a warm climate and outdoor fun, Huntsville should catch your interest!
13. Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville offers low-cost living with affordable homes. Healthcare and education jobs grow fast here, giving you strong work options. The warm weather makes it a great spot to enjoy outdoor fun year-round.
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains nearby for hiking or camping. Festivals, live music, and arts fill the city with energy. People in Knoxville are friendly, creating a welcoming vibe for families and retirees alike.
14. Wichita, Kansas
Wichita stands out for its low cost of living and affordable homes. You can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. Jobs in manufacturing, aviation, and healthcare are growing fast here, offering steady opportunities for workers.
The city has a fun local arts scene with cultural festivals throughout the year. There are plenty of parks and recreational spots to explore, too. Short commute times make life easier, giving you more time to relax or spend with family.
Families and young professionals find Wichita appealing for its affordability and friendly atmosphere.
15. Overland Park, Kansas
Overland Park ranks high for family-friendly living. The city offers top schools and safe neighborhoods, making it ideal for raising kids. Housing is affordable, with many suburban amenities, including parks and trails.
Jobs in finance and tech are growing here. You can enjoy a mix of urban and suburban life, with lots of community activities to join. Recreation facilities add fun while still keeping costs manageable.
16. Plano, Texas
Plano, Texas, is great for families. It has some of the best schools and ranks high on safety. Housing costs here are lower than in other Texas cities, making it more affordable. Families love its parks, events, and many restaurants.
This city also boasts a high median income. Many professionals work here while being close to Dallas-Fort Worth for added career options. Plano blends suburban charm with modern amenities, offering both comfort and proximity to activities.
17. San Francisco, California
San Francisco offers excitement and diversity. The city is full of art, culture, and history. Its tech industry attracts young professionals and startups. You’ll find top-notch restaurants, live music, and fun events year-round.
Public transit is widely available, and walkable neighborhoods such as the Mission District and SoMa are available. The weather stays mild most of the year. Housing costs are high, so budgeting is essential if you plan to move there.
18. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis combines city living with outdoor fun. The parks and green spaces are perfect for hiking, biking, and picnics during every season. Winters can be cold, but they bring winter sports such as skiing and sledding.
The job market is solid, with growth across key industries. Families enjoy great schools and top-notch healthcare options. Art lovers appreciate the music scene and museums that enhance the city’s appeal.
It’s more affordable than other U.S. urban areas, making it a smart choice for many people looking to move.
19. Sarasota, Florida
Sarasota offers a sunny, coastal lifestyle with stunning beaches like Siesta Key. The warm climate makes it perfect for outdoor fun year-round. You can enjoy water sports, parks, and top golf courses nearby.
The city has strong healthcare services and cultural activities. Downtown Sarasota is vibrant with events, shops, and restaurants. Its relaxed vibe attracts retirees and families alike.
20. Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale, Arizona offers a sunny and warm climate. This makes it great for retirees and families who enjoy outdoor activities. You can hike, bike, or play golf almost year-round.
The city also has a strong focus on safety with lower crime rates than many places across the country.
The local economy thrives on tourism, technology, and healthcare. These industries offer numerous job opportunities. Healthcare facilities here are excellent, which is important if you need high-quality medical services nearby.
With its high quality of life and welcoming environment, Scottsdale stands out as a top choice for comfortable living in Arizona.
21. Boulder, Colorado
Boulder, Colorado is known for its happy vibe. The city ranks high on livability lists and attracts people who love the outdoors. You can hike, bike, or enjoy nature all year, with its mountains and over 300 sunny days annually.
It also has a lively arts scene and strong community events. The focus on well-being enhances residents’ life satisfaction. If you seek an active lifestyle with a high quality of life, Boulder stands out as a top choice in the U.S.
22. Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon offers stunning views and endless outdoor fun. You can hike, bike, or ski in its beautiful mountains. The Deschutes River is great for fishing or kayaking, too. Nature lovers find plenty to explore here every season.
The city has a strong sense of community with friendly residents. Local events and cultural spots enhance the appeal. Bend also supports an active lifestyle with many recreational options nearby.
It’s no surprise people are drawn to live and work there!
What Makes a Place the “Best” to Live?
Picking the best place to live depends on what matters most to you. Each city offers unique perks—making your choice personal and exciting.
1. Cost of Living and Affordability
Living costs affect where you settle. Decatur, IL is super cheap with homes under $90,000 and very low rent. Brownsville, TX ranks high too with a median home price of $122,000.
In Toledo, OH, houses cost about $235,000, which is way below the U.S. average. San Antonio’s living expenses are 9% less than most cities, while Wichita Falls offers rents as low as $749 monthly! Fort Wayne has housing prices 18% lower than the average.
2. Job Market and Economic Growth
Cities with a strong job market attract many people. Dallas-Fort Worth, TX is growing fast due to jobs, affordable housing, and no state income tax. Raleigh, NC is great for young professionals with tech and biotech careers booming by 2026.
Austin, TX offers top hiring opportunities. Entry-level workers earn an average of $58,400 there. Milwaukee, WI, provides affordable homes and growth in the healthcare and tech sectors.
In Phoenix, AZ, you’ll find plenty of finance or healthcare jobs for beginners, too.
3. Education and School Quality
Top schools make a huge difference in livability. Broomfield, CO, shines with its highly rated schools and ranks as the best place to live in the West for 2026. Naperville, IL, is another standout for families thanks to its strong K-12 education.
Cary, NC, offers excellent schools and a high median household income of $135,260. Brownsville, TX combines good school options with housing affordability. Irvine, CA also stands out for its top-notch K-12 education quality.
Massachusetts leads all states, in part, because of its strong education system.
4. Safety and Crime Rates
South Burlington, Vermont, ranks as the safest city in 2025. It has very low crime and strong community ties. Vermont also had the lowest crime rate that year.
Casper, Wyoming, comes second for safety. It boasts low crime rates and minimal disaster risks. Other safe spots include Warwick, Rhode Island, and Cary, North Carolina. Both have stable communities and low levels of violent crime.
If you prefer cities like Irvine, California, you’ll find excellent policing, too, with only 9 violent crimes per 100,000 residents!
5. Healthcare Access
Good healthcare matters. Cities like Rochester, MN stand out with top-tier hospitals and services. Minneapolis has a strong healthcare system, too making it an ideal choice for many.
Boise offers affordable living along with good medical care. Scottsdale is popular for senior healthcare, while San Antonio’s costs are 9% below the average. Places like Naples and Virginia Beach also provide great access to health services for retirees.
6. Recreational and Cultural Amenities
Broomfield, Colorado offers over 700 acres of parks and nearly 130 hiking trails that span more than 890 miles. You can also enjoy the water park or visit the Butterfly Pavilion. For drone fans, there’s even a drone airfield.
Austin, Texas, is known for its vibrant music scene and diverse dining options. If you love outdoor adventures, head to Bend, Oregon, or Boise, Idaho. Both are perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
Santa Fe and New Orleans are packed with rich culture and history, too!
7. Climate and Environment
Some cities shine because of their weather. Phoenix, AZ boasts over 300 sunny days each year. Naples, FL offers warm temperatures and nature spots perfect for outdoor lovers. If you like cooler climates with mild summers, San Diego, CA is a great pick.
Denver, CO provides all four seasons; it’s ideal if you enjoy both snow and sunshine. Myrtle Beach in the southeastern states has coastlines and mild weather that families love. In Ocala, FL retirees find sunny skies and peaceful living much of the year.
8. Transportation and Commute
Cities like New York City, Boston, and Washington, DC offer great public transit. Subways, buses, and trains make getting around easy without a car. These areas work well if you prefer walkable streets or shorter commute times.
If you live in places like Carmel, IN or Troy, MI, you’ll enjoy quick drives to work. Commutes average 21-22 minutes. Minneapolis also shines with short trips around town that boost your quality of life.
For remote workers, cities such as Charlotte and Denver stand out for strong home-office setups and nearby outdoor spots for breaks or recreational activities.
9. Community Vibe and Lifestyle Fit
Find a place that matches your values. Boise, Idaho offers a safe and active lifestyle for families. It has low crime rates and offers ample outdoor activities, including hiking and biking.
South Burlington, Vermont is stable and secure with strong community ties.
Bend, Oregon stands out for its love of nature and friendly atmosphere. Broomfield, Colorado combines job growth with an outdoor-focused community spirit. In Plano, Texas, you’ll find family-friendly neighborhoods perfect for settling down.
Tips for Choosing the Right City for You
Think about what matters most to you—jobs, schools, safety, or fun activities. Visit the area if you can and explore its vibe firsthand.
1. Prioritize Your Needs and Values
Focus on what matters most to you. Think about the cost of living, climate, and being close to family or work. For families, highly-rated schools should be a priority. If safety is important, check crime rates for any city you consider.
Every person values different things. Do you need good healthcare? Look into access in your chosen area. Love outdoor activities? Pick a place with parks and recreation options. About 20% of Americans move for better jobs or a new scene; decide what makes life better for you.
2. Research the Cost of Living Index
Check the cost of living before moving. Some cities, like Decatur, Illinois, have median home prices under $90,000. This makes it one of the cheapest places to live in 2025-2026.
Other cities are much pricier. Broomfield, Colorado’s home values average $614,614 and sit 18% above the nation’s average. Also worth noting is Brownsville, Texas, where homes cost around $122,000.
Compare these numbers based on your budget and lifestyle needs!
3. Visit Before You Move
Go visit the city before you move. See the area, meet people, and explore what it offers. Walk around local parks or visit stores to get a sense of the area. Visit during different seasons to understand the weather and its impact on daily life.
Talk to people in coffee shops or community spaces. Ask about schools, fun spots, or even traffic concerns. Experience local food and events too! This helps you decide if this place fits your lifestyle needs.
4. Consider Long-Term Job Prospects
Think about cities with strong job growth. Raleigh, North Carolina, and Austin, Texas, are great for young professionals. They both have booming economies and plenty of opportunities.
Nearly 20% of Americans move for better jobs, so it’s smart to plan ahead.
Affordable cities such as Decatur, Illinois, and Fort Wayne, Indiana, also stand out. Lower living costs, combined with growing job markets, make them attractive choices. Broomfield, Colorado, shines too with its mix of top schools and career options.
5. Check Local News, Trends, and Housing Market
Check housing prices in the area. Decatur, Illinois has homes for under $90,000 in 2025-2026. Compare this to cities like Austin, Texas where costs are higher, but jobs pay well.
Local news can show trends about safety or new projects. If people are moving somewhere fast, prices could rise soon. Nearly 20% of Americans planned moves last year, so areas can change quickly!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best place to live depends on your needs. Think about cost, jobs, lifestyle, and community. Each city offers something special. Explore options and find what feels right for you.
Moving can be exciting when it fits your dreams!
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