There are some places in the U.S. that have a combination of factors that make them great places to live. The best places to live have to represent a good value, have a good quality of life, and have a thriving job market. The best cities have plenty to do and don’t have an extreme cost of living. According to U.S. News and World Report, these are the best places to live right now in the U.S.
1. Naples, Florida
The warm weather, proximity to the water, and wealth of golf courses have made this is a very attractive retirement spot. There’s also no state income tax and plenty of fine dining to be had. It gets an overall score of 7.1.
2. Boise, Idaho
With an overall score of 7, this city is full of outdoor recreation opportunities. It’s got easy access to both city and rural living, and its downtown is thriving. Enjoy locally sourced foods and the clean air of the mountains.
3. Colorado Springs, Colorado
This city also scores a 7, and it also has stunning mountain views. It’s the location of Pike’s Peak, and it has plenty of indoor activities as well. It’s full of history and always an interesting place to be.
4. Greenville, South Carolina
This town has become a bustling city in recent years. It’s been bringing in jobs and new construction is rapid. The downtown has been renewed, and there’s an active culinary scene.
5. Charlotte, North Carolina
This city mixes its traditional Southern charm with the rapidly growing urban center that it is. It’s a major financial hub, and it isn’t far from the mountains and the beach. It’s surrounded by unique suburbs that each have their own style and feel.
6. Raleigh, North Carolina
Research and development are the backbone of this area. Raleigh is one of the top high-tech hubs in the U.S. It has a high quality of life and an educated population, as well as many educational opportunities.
7. Huntsville, Alabama
The Rocket City as it’s known is another high-tech hub. From tech companies to local breweries to an enormous arts center, the city has a little something for everyone. It also has a relatively low cost of living and a high quality of life.
8. Virginia Beach, Virginia
The waterfront and the many activities for residents and visitors have made this into a resort town. However, more people are moving there permanently to take advantage of the view and the many excellent restaurants.
9. Austin, Texas
This city is both fast-growing and laid-back. It’s become a major tech hub, and it’s full of entertainment such as live music. It’s full of energy and has a lot of great career opportunities.
10. Boulder, Colorado
The mountain views here are amazing, and so is the quality of life. The area puts a lot of emphasis on wellness and outdoor activities. Whether you like meditation, mountain climbing, or both, this is the place to be.
11. Sarasota, Florida
This seaside city has its own distinct vibe. It’s got an artistic bent and has its own opera house. Being right on the water means there’s always something to do. An increasing number of young professionals are moving there to take advantage of all it offers.
12. Green Bay, Wisconsin
Best known for the Green Bay Packers, this city has the many benefits of a larger city while retaining its hometown feel. It’s a place with thriving arts and sports scenes as well as plenty of shopping and restaurants.
13. Charleston, South Carolina
The Carolinas feature big on this list, and Charleston is key among them. It has a beautiful natural setting and a bustling nightlife. Art galleries and award-winning restaurants dot this charming town that’s full of history.
14. Madison, Wisconsin
There’s a lot of industry here that offers a wide range of career opportunities. There are also some of the best of the Midwest here, like farmer’s markets and local coffee houses. Try a microbrew or engage in fine dining in this culinary hot spot.
15. Lexington, Kentucky
Enjoy locally sourced foods here from any of the hundreds of local farms. If you love horses and college sports, this is the perfect place to be. The University of Kentucky is here, and basketball fans get plenty of games to cheer for.
