Thinking about a move? We've got you covered. A new ranking of 150 major cities across America weighs up all the key factors from crime rates, climate and air quality to job openings, attractions, commute times, schools, healthcare and home prices. The top 25 tick plenty of boxes and represent the best of the best in the US.
Click or scroll to discover the best places to live across America and how much a home in these desirable hotspots will cost you.
The rankings were compiled by U.S. News & World Report based on four key indexes compiled from official data, surveys and government sources: Quality of Life (32%), Value (27%), Desirability (19%) and Job Market (22%).
The Quality of Life Index considers crime rates, school quality, well-being, commute times, healthcare, pollution levels and risk of natural disasters. The Value Index assesses how easily residents can afford housing and other essentials in relation to typical incomes and local prices.
Each city's attractiveness is measured by the Desirability Index, which includes factors like weather temperateness and the availability of restaurants and bars. The Job Market Index analyzes unemployment rates and median household income, providing insight into job opportunities and earning potential for residents.
Home to the University of Notre Dame with its iconic Golden Dome and legendary Fighting Irish football team, South Bend is a revitalized Rust Belt city with much to offer, from a thriving downtown arts scene to myriad outdoor activities.
The job market is healthy and crime rates are reassuringly low. Downsides include education quality, with South Bend ranking below the national average for college readiness, though the city does have two top-rated high schools. While the typical commute time is just 25 minutes, public transport is limited and winters bring lots of snowfall, which may put off some people.
Living costs are super-affordable, however, with a median home price of $133,774, which is 52.5% below the national figure of $281,900, and a median monthly rent of only $962.
Lincoln, Nebraska's capital, is more than just a college destination known for football. With a flourishing tech scene and a wealth of art museums and live music venues, the city attracts and retains young professionals in particular, who benefit from faster-than-average commute times.
Lincoln enjoys all four seasons, though winters can get bitterly cold. Like South Bend, college readiness ranks below the nationwide average but the city does have five highly rated high schools. Rates for property crime in Lincoln are above the US average, which is a concern for those contemplating a move there.
Living costs are higher than in South Bend with a median home price of $234,589 and median monthly rent of $1,129, but the city's competitive salaries make general living costs economical.
One of four North Carolina cities in the top 25, Greensboro offers a tantalizing mix of big-city amenities and small-town charm. Residents appreciate the convenient location, diverse neighborhoods and strong community ties. With easy access to both mountains and beaches, Greensboro provides a balanced lifestyle that keeps residents happy and connected.
Summers are hot and humid but winters offer milder temperatures. Other pluses include a dynamic job market, an excellent college readiness rating and quick commute times, but crime rates are higher than average.
In terms of affordability, the cost of day-to-day essentials is the same as national figures but housing prices are lower, with a median home price of $213,643 and median monthly rent of $1,155.
The biggest city in the top 25, San Francisco needs no introduction. With its gorgeous architecture, world-class cultural attractions, award-winning restaurants, amazing nightlife, high-paying tech jobs and pleasant climate, the bohemian city is a magnet for those seeking a vibrant and inclusive urban lifestyle.
Other pros include outstanding public transport and exemplary schools. But San Fran isn't perfect. Crime rates are significantly higher than the nationwide average, commute times can be long, air quality is sometimes poor and though salaries in the city tend to be generous, living costs are eye-watering. The median home price comes in at just under $1.4 million, while the median monthly rent figure is a punishing $2,432.
Fayetteville is a booming city in the Ozark Mountains that's experiencing rapid growth and offers a high quality of life. Newcomers rave about its welcoming community, mild climate, fast commutes, abundant outdoor recreation opportunities and extensive arts and culture scene. The University of Arkansas and major corporations like Walmart and Tyson Foods contribute to the city's economic strength and diverse population.
Education is top-notch and Fayetteville impresses with a perfect score for college readiness. At $281,646, the median home price is around the national rate and the median monthly rent is $1,055, but these numbers compare favorably with typical wages. The only bugbear is crime, with both violent crime and property crime rates slightly higher than the US average.
Another Rust Belt city undergoing something of a renaissance, Fort Wayne now offers a good amount of high-tech manufacturing and service-sector jobs. The mid-sized Midwestern city is notable for its family-friendly attractions, not to mention its quirky festivals and annual events such as the Three Rivers Festival and BuskerFest.
Winters can be cold, but the city experiences less snow than other parts of the state. Commute times are fairly short, which is a plus, and while college readiness is below average, schools are generally good. The city also has a lower crime rate than other similar-sized metro areas.
Fort Wayne's biggest pro has got to be its affordable living costs. The median home price is just $169,485, though renting is more expensive in a relative sense, with a median monthly outlay of $1,078.
Known for its prestigious university, Michigan's Ann Arbor offers a high quality of life with an attractive walkable downtown, a historic main street, diverse cultural attractions and abundant outdoor recreation. Its growing tech industry and proximity to Detroit provide ample career opportunities, while excellent schools and low crime rates make it attractive to families.
The four-season climate is devoid of extremes, which is another plus, as is the fast average commute time. The median home price of $456,578 and median monthly rent of $1,584 aren't the lowest in the land, but when typical wages are factored in the cost of living is actually pretty reasonable.
Omaha may have a reputation as a flyover city, but it's friendly, ideal for families and offers a surprising range of cultural pastimes and fun activities, from museums and festivals to a zoo and aquarium.
Jobs are plentiful and the city is located in the tech hub of the so-called Silicon Prairie. Omaha's college readiness rating isn't the best, but six of its high schools are highly ranked. Drawbacks include the city's marginally higher-than-average crime rates and tough climate, with bone-chilling winters and the risk of tornadoes in the warmer months.
However, Omaha's affordable cost of living is a big positive. Household income is generous and the median home price is $232,816, while the median monthly rent stands at $1,252.
This kooky, artsy city in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a mecca for culture vultures, foodies, music lovers and aficionados of the great outdoors. The job market is healthy and commute times are short, though some roles are in the relatively low-paying leisure and hospitality sectors. Schools in the region are generally top-notch.
However, the mountain weather can be unpredictable and crime is a little higher than the national average. One rather bizarre disadvantage is the large population of black bears, which can make living in the city a somewhat interesting experience.
The median home price of $400,587 isn't low, but the median monthly rent of $1,243 is reasonable in comparison and general living costs are economical when typical salaries are considered.
Imbued with its Western heritage, Oklahoma City is where history and cosmopolitanism collide. Locals are renowned for their friendliness and there's plenty to do, from cowboy horse shows to festivals and museums.
Job opportunities abound, especially in the aviation, manufacturing, energy and healthcare sectors, and while commuting times are short, public transport is poor. Schools are well-regarded but the city scores lower than average for college readiness. Crime rates, though not rampant, are in excess of the national average. Probably the biggest con is the city's location in Tornado Alley, with twisters sadly all too common.
Living costs are generally low. The median home price comes in at $199,303 and the median monthly rent is $1,175.
Lexington is a unique city that blends Southern and Midwestern influences, fueled by the University of Kentucky and a buoyant equestrian industry. Residents enjoy a diverse economy with an array of industries and a culture that celebrates both horses and basketball. With a temperate climate and easy access to outdoor recreation, Lexington is ideal for those who like to spend time in nature.
Public transport is limited but commute times are short. Education is top-quality and the city is rated higher than the US average for college readiness. Though violent crime is below the national average, property offenses are higher than the countrywide rate.
When it comes to affordability, Lexington shines. The median home price has risen in recent years but remains below the national figure at $268,163, while median monthly rent is a fairly reasonable $1,175.
Madison seamlessly fuses Midwestern charm with a trailblazing tech and academic scene, providing lots of high-paying jobs. The city has a rich cultural landscape with diverse entertainment options, inventive restaurants and ample outdoor recreation opportunities centered around its beautiful lakes.
Other pros include distinguished schools and low rates of crime. Winters can be frigid, though residents don't let the icy temperatures keep them indoors, embracing activities like skating and ice fishing.
The chief downside is Madison's rather steep cost of living, which is higher than national and state averages. The median home price stands at $367,653, with median monthly rents coming in at $1,341.
Bursting with history, culture and gracious Southern hospitality, Charleston is one of the most beautiful cities in the entire US. Entertainment and dining options are nothing short of marvelous, while the city's schools are highly esteemed. Summers are hot and humid but Charleston's winters are mild. Adding to the city's appeal, crime rates are comfortingly low.
A tourism hotspot, jobs are abundant in the sector, though they don't tend to be all that well paid. That said, Charleston does offer a good amount of comparatively high-paying jobs in tech, marketing and more.
So what's the catch? Mainly living costs, which are high in comparison to how much residents earn. The median home price is a hefty $510,515, while typical monthly rents will set you back $1,607.
The home of the Green Bay Packers football team offers a blend of big-city amenities and small-town ambiance, with an exuberant arts and entertainment scene, a rejuvenated downtown and access to outdoor recreation on the Fox River.
Public transport isn't great but commute times are short and parking is easy to come by. The city scores below average for college readiness, yet four Green Bay schools feature in the U.S. News & World Report's Best High Schools rankings. Violent crime levels are slightly higher than the national average, however, property crime rates are lower.
The healthcare and insurance industries provide good-paying jobs and wages go far in the city, which has a median home price of just $180,066 and a median monthly rent of $927.
Cold isn't an issue in Sarasota thanks to its warm winters, though the city does get very hot during the summer months when the hurricane season starts. Artier than many Florida locales, Sarasota is blessed with museums, galleries and even an opera house. Dining options are fabulous and the city has some of the most stunning beaches in America.
Schools are reasonable and crime rates are reassuringly low. Jobs are readily available but high-paying roles aren't all that abundant, with many openings being tourism-related.
Unsurprisingly, living costs are excessive in relation to the typical wage. The median home price stands at $430,652 and the median monthly rent is $1,652.
Boulder is a picturesque city nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, offering breathtaking scenery and a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities. Known for its focus on wellness and relaxed vibe, the city attracts a diverse population of outdoor enthusiasts and young professionals.
The city's schools are rated highly and violent crime rates are low, but property crime comes in at above the national average. Sunny days are frequent and though winters can be chilly, snow doesn't tend to hang around for that long.
A booming tech sector provides high-paying jobs, which is just as well since living costs in Boulder are sky-high. The median home price is an excessive $854,424 and the median monthly rent amounts to $2,061.
Like Boulder, the weird and wonderful city of Austin is chill and laid-back – a hippie-friendly liberal enclave in otherwise conservative Texas. The city is noted for its fantastic music scene, foodie hangouts and cool nightlife.
Job openings are numerous, with many high-paying roles in tech, advanced manufacturing, financial services, aerospace and other lucrative sectors. Austin's schools are especially well-regarded. The city has an extensive bus system, though commute times can be long due to traffic. Summers are long and can be stiflingly hot, though winters are mild. Crime is among Austin's few drawbacks, with both violent and property offenses in excess of the national average.
The cost of living isn't excessive when typical salaries are factored in. The median home price is $487,981, while the median monthly rent stands at $1,716.
Virginia Beach is so much more than just a vacation destination. Its beautiful scenery, relaxed atmosphere and unique job market driven by a strong military presence make it an appealing place to live. However, potential residents should be aware of the noise associated with nearby military bases that can cut through the tranquil surroundings.
The city's climate is temperate, yet it is prone to hurricanes. Schools are considered excellent and crime rates are low. Good public transport is another plus and the city is very walkable.
Living costs come in at around the nationwide average, though housing costs can be higher in some areas. The median home price is $358,477 and the median monthly rent amounts to $1,804.
Once known primarily for its role in the Space Race, Huntsville has transformed into a bustling city with a strong emphasis on education and tech. The city has a revived downtown, a growing arts and culture scene and a diverse economy driven by NASA, the US military and the burgeoning tech sector.
Weather-wise, the city has mild winters but summers are humid and tornadoes are a risk in the spring and fall. Parents considering a move will be pleased to discover that Huntsville's schools are highly rated. A car is a must in the city, which has limited public transport options.
General living costs tend to be less than in other major US metro areas. Housing in particular is cheaper, with a median home price of $245,381 and a median monthly rent of $1,226.
Raleigh and the surrounding tri-city area offer a strong job market and buzzy cultural scene, with family-friendly museums and artsy events, as well as ample outdoor recreation opportunities. The city's welcoming atmosphere, diverse community and access to renowned universities and cultural institutions are major pluses, as are its many restaurants and entertainment options.
Stellar schools bolster Raleigh's family appeal, however, crime rates are above the national average. General living costs come in at around the average for the US and while housing costs aren't the cheapest, modest property taxes take the edge off. The median home price amounts to $382,677 and the typical monthly rent is $1,433.
Staying in North Carolina, Charlotte is the best place to live in the state, which counts four cities in the top 25. Old-school Southern charm meets 21st-century sophistication in this friendly, dynamic city. Charlotte is a major banking hub and a hotspot for high-paying jobs in the region.
Cultural attractions are plentiful and outdoorsy types won't be disappointed, while Charlotte's educational establishments are high-caliber. The city is also noted for its cleanliness and well-kept streets. Winters are mild, though summers can be very hot and humid. Crime levels, though not excessive, are higher than the US average, making this metric among the city's few cons.
Living costs are economical in relation to local salaries. The median home price comes in at $359,446 and the median monthly rent is $1,503.
Greenville has blossomed from a former textile town into a lively city with a revamped downtown, an exciting arts scene and a diverse economy with a range of decent jobs to choose from. The city has a mild climate and easy access to both urban amenities and outdoor recreation.
A walkable downtown and high-performing schools are other big pluses. Crime rates aren't the lowest but crime isn't a significant problem here either. Living costs are affordable when wages are considered, giving potential newcomers another good reason to relocate to the city. The median home price sits at $393,809, with the median monthly rent coming in at $1,193.
The third-best place to live in the US, Colorado Springs features a diverse landscape that combines natural beauty, rich history and modern amenities. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community, boundless outdoor activities and an inspiring arts and culture scene. The city's Olympic sporting heritage and high altitude make it a haven for athletes and nature enthusiasts. Despite its elevation, the weather is glorious for much of the year and snowfall isn't all that heavy.
Jobs are available in the military, higher education and other areas. Schools are very good, though crime levels are a little above the national average. Healthcare, utilities and transportation are cheaper than national figures, but housing can be relatively costly. The median home price is $394,553, while the median monthly rent stands at $1,702.
Boise is an outdoor aficionado's paradise, offering hassle-free access to a variety of natural landscapes, from mountains and rivers to deserts and lakes. The city also has an action-packed downtown with a focus on locally sourced food and cultural attractions, making it an appealing destination for those seeking both urban amenities and wilderness adventures.
Boise is a hub for numerous industries and unemployment is low so finding a job is a breeze. Commute times are shorter than the national average, which is an added bonus. Schools are superb and crime rates are low. The city has 200 days of sunshine a year and extreme temperatures are rare.
Taxes in Boise are low and the city offers reasonable value for money for housing when you factor in local incomes. The median home price is $422,080 and the median monthly rent comes in at $1,418.
America's best place to live is Naples, Florida. The city is known for its affluent retirement-friendly atmosphere, pristine white-sand beaches, manicured golf courses, fine dining restaurants and high-end shopping options. While Naples caters mostly to wealthy seniors, it also has a craft brewery scene, lively bars and fun waterside establishments.
Outdoor activities are abundant and the city has plenty to offer culturally. Schools are excellent, crime is low and the weather is lovely and warm in winter, though the hot and humid summer and vulnerability to hurricanes may put off some people. Other drawbacks include the city's often heavy traffic and steep living costs. The median home price is expensive at $577,796 and the median monthly rent is $1,754.
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