Your Guide To The 15 Most Livable Places in the U.S.

Struggling to decide where to move to in the United States? We feel you. With 50 states, 3,144 counties, and over 19,400 incorporated cities, choosing where to plant roots can feel like an uphill battle. Fortunately, ranking lists are released every year to guide your search for the nicest places to live in the U.S. 

We’ve gathered the latest lists available from some of the most reputed ranking companies out there:

• Niche.com: 2024 Best Cities to Live in America
• U.S. News & World Report: Best Places To Live in the U.S. in 2025-2026
• RentCafe: Most Livable Places in the U.S. in 2024
• Livability: Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024-2025
• WalletHub: Best Small Cities to Live in America in 2024

We selected the top 3 cities or towns from each list and researched what makes them desirable for potential relocators. To keep things fresh, we avoid repeats –if a city appeared more than once, we moved on to the next highest-ranked option. Our goal? To give you the definitive list of the 15 best places to live in the USA. 

Best Places to Live in the United States

Naperville, IL

Naperville, Illinois’ fourth-largest city, is a thriving suburb of Chicago that consistently garners national recognition for its exceptional quality of life. Named the 2024 Best City to Live in America by Niche.com, Naperville also earned accolades as the third-best city to buy a house in the U.S., the best city to raise a family, and the city with the best public schools in America. It was also featured in Livability’s Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2022.

Naperville’s appeal lies in its flourishing business community and its ideal mix of cultural richness, top-rated schools, and a welcoming, tight-knit atmosphere. Located just 33 miles west of Chicago, the city offers something for everyone—from retirees and young professionals to growing families seeking a small-town feel with big-city conveniences. The Naperville real estate market remains relatively affordable, but demand is rising rapidly as more people discover all this remarkable city has to offer.

Population: 150,245 | Median Home Value: $565,143 | Cost of Living Index: 108.1 | Median Household Income: $150,937

The Woodlands, TX

The master-planned community of The Woodlands is one of the best places to live in eastern Texas and the rest of the US. Strategically located just half an hour north of Houston, It has a relaxed suburban vibe complemented by big-city amenities and unmatched natural beauty. The Woodlands also offers a reasonable cost of living, top-tier educational standards, a host of outdoor recreational opportunities, and some of the best neighborhoods outside of Houston.

Real estate in The Woodlands, TX, is highly competitive. Year-over-year growth is about 17%; homes typically go under contract after 27 days of listing. The housing supply includes sizeable single-family residences on expansive lots, as well as charming condos and townhouses designed for buyers seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle.

Population: 118,402 | Median Home Value: $306,191 | Cost of Living Index: 100.1 | Median Household Income: $141,353

Cambridge, MA

Not only did Niche.com rank Cambridge as the top city for young professionals in the U.S., but Fortune also named it #1 on their 2023 list of “Best Places to Live for Families” after evaluating 1,900 locations nationwide. As part of the Greater Boston area, Cambridge is an affluent, highly educated suburban community of under 120,000 where young professionals and multigenerational families thrive.  

One of the biggest attractives of this city is the high-paying jobs in industries like innovation, tech, healthcare, government, and education. Safety is another incentive for homebuyers in the area, with violent crime 27% below the national average. Great public transportation, scenic waterfront parks, green spaces, dozens of museums and historic sites, and a strong sense of community fueled by social gatherings and block parties add great value and charm to this Boston suburb. 

If education tops your priority list, Cambridge has you covered with Cambridge Public Schools, one of Massachusetts’s best public school districts, alongside prestigious private institutions like St. Peter School, Shady Hill School, and the Cambridge Matignon School. Looking to advance your studies? The city proudly hosts world-renowned institutions such as Harvard University, MIT, and Lesley University, making it a hub for academic excellence.

Relocating to Cambridge is setting residence in one of the great places to live in the US. The Cambridge real estate prices will reflect that quality of life across 13 unique neighborhoods peppered around five major squares. The housing stock here comprises charming duplexes, condominiums with unobstructed city views, and spacious single-family residences. 

Population: 118,214 | Median Home Value: $997,772 | Cost of Living Index: 144.7 | Median Household Income: $126,469

Naples, FL

Positioned along the serene shores of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Naples is renowned for its 48 miles of pristine white-sand beaches, warm weather year-round, cultural sophistication, and upscale amenities. Dubbed the “Golf Capital of the World,” Naples boasts the highest number of golf holes per capita in the Sunshine State and ranks second globally. Other things to do here include luxurious shopping districts, local events like Naples Craft Beer Fest, oceanfront parks, Baker Museum, and the Naples Philharmonic. 

The resort-like coastal town is a 2-hour drive west of Miami, and it’s a great place for retirees (median age is around 67). However, other homebuyers are also drawn to this paradise. Families relocate to Naples for the laid-back atmosphere, low crime rates, and upscale neighborhoods like Pelican Bay or Coquina Sands. When it comes to education, local Collier County Public Schools is #5 on Niche.com’s “Best School Districts in Florida” list. 

Naples real estate for sale often comes with a side of ocean or well-groomed golf course vistas. Condos or single-family homes in residential communities with high-end services and surrounded by natural beauty are a top offer in this market. Still, this type of luxurious housing often comes with a high price tag. However, not every home for sale in Naples is expensive. For more detailed guidance, hire an experienced local real estate agent.  

Population: 19,704 | Median Home Value: $577,990 | Cost of Living Index: 113 | Median Household Income: $135,657

Boise, ID

Boise, Idaho, secured the #2 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s Best Places to Live in the U.S. for 2025-2026, and it’s no surprise why. The mid-size city has a low unemployment rate of 2.8%, gorgeous outdoor scenery, a friendly and tight-knit community, and just the right mix of city conveniences and small-town ambiance. 

Relocators looking for a spot in the Pacific Northwest without the hefty price tag of cities like Portland or Seattle, Boise is a top choice. Locals enjoy family-focused activities and amenities, over 5,000 acres of green space, and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, including jogging, cycling, snowboarding, or skiing. For a relaxed outing, Downtown Boise, lovingly known as BoDo, offers trendy cafés, restaurants, local boutiques, public art, and local events. 

Boise is a relatively affordable Idaho real estate market. Homes for sale in Boise, ID, are listed at a median of $482K, but first-time homebuyers can still find single-family homes priced under the $300K mark. Looking to make Boise your home? Move quickly. Demand is rising, and the inventory is limited, so the current prices won’t last long. 

Population: 235,421 | Median Home Value: $482,666 | Cost of Living Index: 119.6 | Median Household Income: $98,700

Colorado Springs, CO 

Colorado Springs draws people from all walks of life, including military personnel, retirees, and multigenerational families. With its exceptional quality of life, laid-back vibe, an average of 300 sunny days per year, a low unemployment rate of 3.3%, and excellent air quality, this sought-after city stands out as one of the best places to call home in The Centennial State.

WalletHub ranks the city as the 17th most educated in the nation, with Colorado earning 5th among the most educated states. 

Colorado Springs boasts strong educational options, with schools earning a solid B+ rating from Niche.com. Standout institutions include Cheyenne Mountain Elementary School and Cheyenne Mountain Junior High School, both known for their exceptional academic programs.

Outdoor enthusiasts will relish the proximity of the majestic Rocky Mountains, offering endless opportunities for adventure. The possibilities are limitless, from hiking scenic trails and fishing or paddleboarding on serene lakes to skiing and snowboarding during winter.

Colorado Springs real estate appeals to buyers seeking a more affordable alternative to Denver’s high housing costs. One of the biggest advantages of relocating to a city with greater purchasing power is the opportunity to enjoy more space. The housing market in Colorado Springs offers a diverse range of options, from entry-level suburban homes to expansive custom-built mansions on large plots of land. 

Population: 488,664 | Median Home Value: $450,829 | Cost of Living Index: 110.3 | Median Household Income: $83,198

Carmel, IN

Are you considering relocating to a small town that experiences the four seasons, a thriving business scene, and award-winning schools? Look no further than Carmel, the Midwestern gem that took the #1 spot on Livability’s list of the Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S. Locals rave about Carmel’s warm, welcoming vibe, affordable living costs, quality healthcare, and unique charm. Simply put, Carmel is where the community truly comes alive.

Some perks of moving to Carmel include a well-maintained infrastructure, excellent schools, low crime rates compared to the rest of Indiana, and plenty of job opportunities in industries like tech, finance, and healthcare. 

From the Monon Trail to Central Park, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love here. Carmel also offers cultural highlights like the Arts & Design District, the Center for the Performing Arts, and festive events like the Carmel Christkindlmarkt.

The Carmel real estate market has grown significantly in recent years but remains balanced. Homes typically go under contract within 23 days, reflecting strong demand. The housing inventory includes spacious suburban homes, modern new-construction condos, and stylish townhouses, making it an appealing destination for a range of buyers.

Population: 102,296 | Median Home Value: $529,730 | Cost of Living Index: 106 | Median Household Income: $132,859

Cary, NC

One of the nicest places to live in the U.S. is also one of the best suburbs of Raleigh. We are talking about Cary, an up-and-coming North Carolina city with a world-class entertainment, art, and cultural scene, 31 city parks, and around 100 miles of trails and greenways. It also has colorful local and seasonal events and a picturesque downtown that blends historic charm and modern conveniences.

 In addition, Cary is one of the safest cities in the Southeast and boasts a strong public school system where most schools are rated A. Potential relocators also love Cary’s location, which is only 17 minutes from Downtown Raleigh.

Cary, NC, real estate is in a red-hot seller’s market, with real estate experiencing a 7.6% year-over-year growth. Homes here don’t stay on the market long—typically selling within 26 days and often attracting multiple offers, reflecting the area’s strong demand. The city’s housing inventory caters to various buyers, offering an impressive mix of property types to suit different lifestyles and needs.

Single-family homes dominate the market, providing a variety of styles and sizes to suit the needs of families. The area also offers a selection of condominiums and townhouses for young professionals and retirees looking for low-maintenance living.

Population: 180,010 | Median Home Value: $620,583 | Cost of Living Index: 105.8 | Median Household Income: $129,399 

Columbia, MD

Located halfway between Washington and Baltimore, Columbia is a highly livable planned community encompassing ten independent villages. If you are considering making Maryland your home, you will find well-maintained properties, well-compensated positions in industries like research and government, and a best-in-class educational system here.

While the cost of living in Columbia is around 28% above the rest of the country, the median family income of $124,500 helps keep a healthy balance. Families and established professionals are often attracted to the city’s urban and suburban character, forward-thinking population, and abundant entertainment offerings. Columbia is also loved by adventure seekers for its 3,600 acres of green spaces and 114 miles of pathways that traverse meadows, footbridges, lakes, and ponds far from all traffic stress. 

The Columbia, MD, real estate landscape has shown notable activity in recent years as the city gained more and more popularity. As of 2024, the town is an active seller’s market where homebuyers can find single-family homes of various sizes and styles, comfortable townhouses, and low-rise condos in the heart of Columbia. 

Population: 106,600 | Median Home Value: $497,962 | Cost of Living Index: 127.9 | Median Household Income: $124,537

Portland, ME

Portland is one of the most in-demand towns for planting roots in southern Maine. While this is the state’s largest city, its character is that of a smaller enclave with friendly locals, plenty of outdoor community events, virtually no traffic, and a crime index of 25, meaning that this city is safer than 25% of other cities in the country. Violent crime is under 2% here. Portland is also highly praised for its healthy job market, with many openings in the five top economic sectors in the area: tourism, marine aquaculture, life sciences, forest products, and food and agriculture. The unemployment rate here is 2.2%.

Summers are pleasant in Portland, ME, and are perfect for enjoying the local beaches, sailing, or practicing kayaking or paddleboarding. Naturally, living in New England wouldn’t be complete without soaking in the stunning fall foliage that paints the city’s trees in a tapestry of warm, autumnal hues each year. And in the winter, have your warmest coat handy and be ready to ice skating, sledding, or skiing. 

Like the rest of Maine real estate, Portland is a sought-after market with rising demand and dwindling supplies. As a result, prices are surging, benefitting sellers, and the median home value is now close to $550K. The stock in Portland consists mainly of suburban single-family houses of varied architectural styles (from Colonial to Italianate and Modern), penthouses, and brick-facade townhomes. 

Population: 69,104 | Median Home Value: $548,108 | Cost of Living Index: 112.5 | Median Household Income: $76,174

Lincoln, NE

Lincoln flew under the radar for years until it started to top every “great places to live in the U.S.” list. Today, it is a coveted place to relocate in the heart of the Great Planes, surpassing once-popular choices like Omaha. Lincoln is praised for its affordability, diverse population, and urban yet pleasant character. Locals love the affordable real estate options, abundant world-class amenities, and green surroundings (you can access over 120 parks). 

Lincoln allures mostly retirees, students, and growing families for its inexpensive lifestyle, laid-back vibe, top-tier education, and ample recreational opportunities. Locals enjoy the low average commute time (20 minutes), all the action at the entertainment districts of The Railyard and The Haymarket District, and proximity to Omaha and Kansas City for additional career opportunities, entertainment choices, and cultural activities. 

Lincoln is an affordable and resilient Nebraska real estate market that has grown consistently for the last two to three years and shows no sign of cooling. Median list prices here range between $270,000 – $314,900, and the Lincoln homes for sale have a lightning-fast turnaround of only 13 days. If you’re house hunting in this market, you’ll find everything from sprawling, well-kept mansions on 6+ acres of land to charming, all-brick cottages—and plenty of sleek, newly built homes to choose from.

Population: 294,757 | Median Home Value: $274,631 | Cost of Living Index: 92.6 | Median Household Income: $69,991

Des Moines, IA

Iowa’s capital is the third most livable place to live in the U.S. in 2024, according to a RentCafe rank published earlier this year. The Midwest city has also been recognized by homebuyers.com as the fourth-best city for young adults and the fourth-best place to raise kids in the nation, as reported by SmartAsset. Why so many accolades? Des Moines ranks high in amenities, housing, and transportation, has a cost of living of 13.4% more affordable than the rest of the United States, and provides a work-life balance and quality of life second to none. 

Living in Des Moines means easier commutes than those in larger metro areas, good jobs in industries like insurance, finances, logistics, and manufacturing, and 26 well-maintained parks and 50 miles of biking, hiking, and walking trails. More recreation is available with over 15 golf courses, 34 lakes in the city surroundings for paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, or swimming, and endless cultural and entertainment options in places like Pappajohn Sculpture Park or the Des Moines Art Center.

Des Moines, IA, real estate for sale is in a strong market, with solid property demand, especially in sought-after neighborhoods like Glen Oaks, Douth of Grand, and Wellington Ridge. The market is stable, showing a neutral face to both buyers and sellers. Currently, the inventory is improving, giving buyers more opportunities to buy homes for sale in Des Moines and more opportunities to negotiate. If you’ve been wanting to enter this market, do so now. 

Population: 210,381 | Median Home Value: $200,958 | Cost of Living Index: 86.6 | Median Household Income: $62,378

Brookfield, WI

Just minutes away from Milwaukee, it is the second-best small city in America to live in 2024, according to WalletHub: Brookfield. Filled with suburban tranquility but within easy reach of everything Downtown Milwaukee offers, relocators to this small town have the best of both worlds with many added perks, fantastic outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community. 

Furthermore, Brookfield, WI, has a desirably low unemployment rate (3%), the 96th highest homeownership rate in the nation, and a healthy population of just over 200K –more than 98% of the Brookfield residents have health insurance and take good care of themselves. The report also informs that moving to this Milwaukee suburb is moving to the city that owns the 31st-lowest violent crime rates in the U.S.A.

Brookfield real estate is part of the Wisconsin real estate market, characterized by being balanced with a tight inventory and humble growth. For first-time homebuyers, Brookfield boasts mostly existing and newly-built single-family homes of distinct sizes, primarily on spacious lots or with backyards. There is also plenty of land for sale here for those interested in constructing their dwelling. 

Population: 41,884 | Median Home Value: $469,693 | Cost of Living Index: 107.3 | Median Household Income: $121,837

Lexington, MA

Lexington is a popular suburb of Boston and the second Massachusetts city on this list. With approximately 400 years of history, lush green spaces, and gorgeous architecture, this Middlesex County tiny gem is a great spot to establish in The Bay State. 

Lexington is a wealthy and progressive city that stands out as one of the nation’s median annual household income leaders. To top things off, it’s part of Massachusetts, the state that encompasses the best school system in the United States and has the fourth-lowest property crime rate in the country. Relocators also love the ample outdoor recreational activities, reliable public transit, and high walkability. 

The Lexington real estate market is fast-moving and high-value. Single-family homes typically have price tags in the six figures, and bidding wars are frequent. On average, the Lexington homes for sale change hands after being listed for around 22 days compared to 15 days last year. 

Population: 33,882 | Median Home Value: $1,4M | Cost of Living Index: 144.7 | Median Household Income: $219,402

Fishers, IN

Peaceful Fishers, IN, lies just 21 miles northeast of downtown Indianapolis, and it’s considered one of the area’s most livable, up-and-coming suburbs. It comprises a laid-back ambiance paired with outstanding amenities and services. Schools here are top-tier, and the community is tight-knit. 

Relocators looking for fresh air and an active lifestyle have around 25 parks in Fishers boasting around 600 acres, with an additional 131 miles of multi-use trails and pathways for cycling, hiking, or simply having a relaxing afternoon walk with the family or dog. Additional perks of moving to this charming Indiana town include a robust local economy with high employment rate, and relatively affordable living costs. 

The homes for sale in Fishers are spread across 15 distinct neighborhoods and are mostly spacious single-family residences with meticulously manicured landscaping and plenty of features. This Indiana real estate market has been notably active and competitive for a few years now which reflects in the 16% price increase compared to the same period last year. The homes in Fishers, IN, seel on around 25 days after being listed. 

Population: 104,094 | Median Home Value: $419,453 | Cost of Living Index: 106 | Median Household Income: $126,548

Final Words: Nicest Places To Live In U.S.

We hope our list of the best places to live in the U.S. provided valuable insights and helped you feel more confident in choosing the perfect destination for your next chapter—whether you’re retiring, pursuing a career change, or finding a forever home for you and your family. 

Once you’ve identified the city or town that feels like the right fit, the exciting journey of securing the ideal home in that community will be your next step. If you need a reliable listing platform that values your privacy and has the latest industry tools and data, give ez Home Search a chance to be by your side in this life-changing moment! Here’s to finding not just a new place to live but a place to thrive truly.