The best places to live in America: These cities in the U.S. have the best balance of quality of life and affordability. Where would you choose to move?
The United States has many different places to live, from big cities to small towns and everything in between. There’s a perfect place for everyone. But with so many choices, where do you start? The best places to live have good quality of life, affordable cost of living, good amenities, and a strong community.
Quality of life means things like safety, good schools, healthcare, access to nature, and overall well-being. For cost of living, think about housing, groceries, transportation, and other expenses to make sure you can live comfortably. The best places should also have parks, entertainment, cultural attractions, or be close to where you work. Lastly, a strong community can greatly improve your quality of life.
Keeping these factors in mind, here are some of the best places to live in America, based on recent research by U.S. News Real Estate rankings.
7. Huntsville, Alabama
Overall score: 6.8
Huntsville, Alabama, known as the “Rocket City,” combines innovation with Southern charm. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, it attracts people looking for opportunities, a strong community, an affordable cost of living, and plenty of fun activities.
NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and a booming aerospace and defense industry create a culture of innovation in Huntsville. Top-rated schools add to its reputation for quality education. The cost of living is 5.8% below the U.S. average. Yearly temperatures range from 88 to 33 degrees.
| Population | 227,522 |
| Employment Rate | 28.66%, lower than the U.S. average of 30.54% |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.1%, lower than the U.S. average of 6% |
| Average Rent (2-Bedroom Unit) | $1,110 per month |
| Crime Rate | 18 per 1,000 residents |
6. Raleigh, North Carolina
Overall score: 6.8
Raleigh, North Carolina is the state capital. It is known as the “City of Oaks” for its beautiful trees. It combines Southern charm, smart people, and a lively community. Raleigh attracts those looking for a good quality of life, good schools, and plenty of job opportunities.
Raleigh has top universities like North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, making up the famous Research Triangle. The city enjoys a pleasant four-season climate with average temperatures ranging from 89 to 33 degrees, and fall is especially enjoyable for everyone.
| Population | 488,854 |
| Employment Rate | 44.6%, higher than the U.S. average of 30.54% |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.3%, lower than the U.S. average of 6% |
| Average Rent (2-Bedroom Unit) | $1,450 per month |
| Crime Rate | 28.68 per 1,000 residents |
5. Charlotte, NC
Overall score: 6.8
Charlotte, North Carolina, known as the Queen City of the South, combines Southern hospitality with modern ambition. Located in the Piedmont region, this city attracts people looking for a lively downtown, a strong community, and plenty of opportunities.
Charlotte offers plenty of free activities for fun, whether you’re a local or just visiting. It’s also a bustling economic hub, especially for banking and finance, and the tech industry is growing, providing lots of job opportunities. The weather averages between 89 and 34 degrees.
| Population | 920,325 |
| Employment Rate | 48.08%, higher than the U.S. average of 30.54% |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.9%, lower than the U.S. average of 6.% |
| Average Rent (2-Bedroom Unit) | $1,480 per month |
| Crime Rate | 41.95 per 1,000 residents |
4. Greenville, South Carolina
Overall score: 6.9
Greenville, South Carolina, is a city that’s growing fast. Nestled near the Blue Ridge Mountains, it combines Southern charm with a lively atmosphere. People are drawn to Greenville for its bustling downtown, diverse culture, and lovely natural environment.
Living in Greenville costs about 8.7% less than the national average, and you can choose from historic areas to modern suburbs for housing. The city also has low taxes, making it even more appealing. Greenville has a moderate climate with average temperatures from 89 to 35 degrees throughout the year.
| Population | 73,589 |
| Employment Rate | 43%, higher than the U.S. average of 30.54% |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.4%, lower than the U.S. average of 6% |
| Average Rent (2-Bedroom Unit) | $1,170 per month |
| Crime Rate | 43.58 per 1,000 residents |
3. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Overall score: 7
Colorado Springs, nestled in the beautiful Rocky Mountains, combines city excitement with outdoor fun. It’s a lovely place for people looking to balance an active life, a close-knit community, and good job opportunities.
Colorado Springs is great for families because of its top schools and good healthcare. It’s a safe and friendly place with lots of free activities for everyone to enjoy. The weather is nice all year, with average temperatures from 84 to 21 degrees.
| Population | 492,204 |
| Employment Rate | 40.12%, higher than the U.S. average of 30.54% |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.4%, lower than the U.S. average of 6% |
| Average Rent (2-Bedroom Unit) | $1,590 per month |
| Crime Rate | 40.74 per 1,000 residents |
2. Boise, Idaho
Overall score: 7
Boise, Idaho, nestled near the Rocky Mountains, mixes city life with outdoor fun. It’s known for being friendly, having lots of jobs, and being surrounded by beautiful nature.
Boise has all four seasons, with warm summers great for outdoor activities and cold winters perfect for skiing. Spring and fall are nice too, ideal for enjoying the city’s beauty. The weather ranges from 92 to 25 degrees on average.
| Population | 237,250 |
| Employment Rate | 39.8%, higher than the U.S. average of 30.54% |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.6%, lower than the U.S. average of 6.0% |
| Average Rent (2-Bedroom Unit) | $1,380 per month |
| Crime Rate | 14.66 per 1,000 residents |
1. Naples, Florida
Overall score: 7.1
Naples is ranked as one of the best places to live in America with a quality of life score of 6.8. It’s situated along Florida’s beautiful Paradise Coast, enjoying lots of sun and a classy atmosphere. This lively city is known for its gorgeous beaches and offers a mix of luxurious living, stunning nature, and a busy cultural scene.
Naples encourages healthy living and community spirit, creating a sense of well-being among residents. The city enjoys warm weather throughout the year, with little change between seasons. On average, temperatures range from 85 to 43 degrees.
| Population | 20,104 |
| Employment Rate | 49.36%, higher than the U.S. average of 30.54% |
| Unemployment Rate | 4%, lower than the U.S. average of 6% |
| Average Rent (2-Bedroom Unit) | $1,890 per month |
| Crime Rate | 16.67 per 1,000 residents |
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