5 Best Places To Live In America, Ranked

Garden of the Gods Road in Colorado Springs. (Photo by Unsplash+ in collaboration with Josh Hild)

Discovering the ideal place to call home involves navigating a myriad of factors, from cultural amenities to economic opportunities. In this article, we explore the top destinations across the country that offer a harmonious blend of thriving communities, picturesque landscapes, and a high quality of life. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant urban pulse or the tranquility of suburban charm, our curated list unveils the best places to live in America.

If you’ve been considering a move, you’re far from alone. A study found that 40 percent of Americans are also contemplating a new location. Moving is far from a beloved task for most adults. In fact, a survey found that one in eight Americans would actually consider it to be more stressful than jail. Though research suggests that the average American has moved five times in their life, most of us would prefer to minimize our hops from city to city or state to state.

That’s why choosing a place to live is such an important decision. It’s no small feat to pack up a life and move it elsewhere, but when there’s something greater out there, it can be a major step toward a better future. A recent survey found that 52 percent of people would consider moving to a new city to land their dream job. Another survey found that 13 percent of movers were relocating to be closer to family.

Whether you are determined to make a change or just pondering, America has thousands of great options to choose from. With 50 states filled with happening cities and towns, the choice can be based on a lot of factors. From climate, to education, to economy, weighing the decision can feel overwhelming to say the least. To help navigate the process, StudyFinds searched 10 expert lists to round up the top five best places to live in America. Our list is comprised of the five cities most frequently listed atop others’ reviews. But if you have a suggestion that we missed, be sure to share it in the comments below!

➡️ How Our “Best Of The Best” Lists Are Created

StudyFinds’ “Best of the Best” articles are put together with the idea of taking the work out of common consumer research. Ever find yourself searching for a product or service on Google and reading multiple reviews to find items listed across many of them? Our Best of the Best lists are created with that process in mind, with each item ranked by how frequently it appears on expert reviews or lists. With Best of the Best, you are getting consensus picks — making them truly the best of the best!

usa flag on pole under sunset sky with clouds — The American flag (Photo by iStrfry , Marcus on Unsplash)

The List: Best Places to Live in America, According to Experts

1. Ann Arbor, Michigan

a street in Ann Arbor, Michigan — State Street in Ann Arbor (Photo by Brad West on Unsplash)

Home to a vibrant culinary scene, growing technology industry, and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is a city with a lot to offer. Money says not to dismiss Ann Arbor as just another college town; that would be a disservice to all it has to offer.

There is plenty to do in Ann Arbor. Livability mentions their beautiful hiking trails, artistic flair, and friendly, smart residents. What’s not to like?

Among the many benefits of life in Ann Arbor is the sheer variety that the city offers. “Ann Arbor is a mix of the rural and urban, sporty and smart, outdoorsy and high-tech city,” says MovingWaldo. “Ann Arbor boasts excellent public schools, an increasingly diverse job market, a culturally diverse community, a robust public park system, and low crime rates.”

2. Raleigh, North Carolina

a pond in Raleigh, North Carolina — Raleigh, North Carolina (Photo by Sean Russell on Unsplash)

If you’re looking to build a career in tech while enjoying the comforts of the American South, Raleigh is the city for you. Bankrate calls it “an East Coast center of innovation,” thanks to the city’s plans for a billion-dollar Apple campus. Aside from its booming tech climate, anyone will enjoy the mild weather year-round, amazing culinary scene, and the exciting NC State college football community.

Though Raleigh is a growing city, residents and visitors say it still holds on to classic Southern hospitality and a small-town feel. MovingWaldo describes the city’s residents as some of the warmest and most welcoming people you will ever meet. “Residents are mostly young, friendly, diverse, and educated individuals who enjoy dining out in local restaurants and gathering over craft beers in one of the city’s microbreweries,” they add in their review.

Money reviewers can’t get over the city’s beautiful green spaces with over 9,000 acres of parkland. It will certainly appease the outdoorsy.

3. Huntsville, Alabama

a water fountain in Hunstville — Propst Arena in Huntsville, Alabama (Photo by Megan Lee on Unsplash)

If you haven’t heard of Huntsville, odds are that you will soon. The city is the fastest growing in the state of Alabama, and for good reason. Business Insider says Huntsville started gaining popularity when it became a famous hub for NASA in the 1960s. Now, you can expect to see tech companies, craft breweries, and artists popping up all over the place there today.

The city is a great place for people of all ages, offering exciting restaurants and bars for young people, great schools for families, and favorable weather year-round for all its residents. “Huntsville’s city has many new shopping, dining, and entertainment options alongside the largest privately owned arts facility in the south,” adds MovingWaldo. “The downtown is gentrifying, with an old cotton mill turned to a performing arts center, and a renovated school now home to craft breweries and bars,” adds Inc.

4. Fayetteville, Arkansas

The old Washington County Courthouse in Fayetteville, Arkansas (Photo by Gunnar Rathbun on Shutterstock)

As the home of The University of Arkansas, Fayetteville combines youthful energy with a classic, small-town feel. MovingWaldo also mentions their endless entertainment options for residents.

According to Business Insider, Fayetteville has seen a burst of growth and is transforming from a small town to a bustling destination full of opportunities for higher education, cultural development, and business.

Thanks to its location in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Fayetteville also draws a crowd of nature lovers. Inc. notes that in addition to the beautiful mountain backdrop, they have plenty of state parks, community green space, trails, and playgrounds for children.

5. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs (Photo by Melanie Magdalena on Unsplash)

A paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers, Colorado Springs perfectly rounds out our list of best places to live in the U.S. A local expert tells Business Insider that “Colorado Springs is ‘booming, with new residences popping up alongside quality schools, parks, and cultural attractions.'”

Moving to Colorado Springs gives you all the benefits of Colorado without being smack inthe middle of the hectic action. Inc. says that you can enjoy the nearby ski resorts in Vail and Aspen and come home to the quiet, peaceful living you can find in Colorado Springs for cheaper housing and less traffic.

Beyond the beautiful landscape, Colorado Springs also holds a wealth of opportunity. Livability. mentions that “the city’s more than 495,000 residents also enjoy excellent job prospects, tons of higher education opportunities, lots of sunshine and an authentic community feel.”

Sources:

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.