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Real Estate Tips
Tuesday, January 07, 2025

19 Top-Ranked Places To Raise A Family in The U.S

Relocating is a groundbreaking experience, more so doing it with the whole family. There is so much research to do, opinions to reconcile, and variables to weigh that the process can take significant time and effort, turning it into a daunting experience. But it doesn’t have to be! 

If you’re here, it’s probably because you have already entered the research funnel and have one fundamental question: What are the best cities to raise a family in the United States? To guide your efforts, we have compiled a list of the 19 best destinations based on a list published by WalletHub this year. 

WalletHub ranked 182 cities across the United States, including 150 of the most densely populated ones, considering five main factors: family fun, health and safety, education, child care affordability, and socioeconomics. They examined these categories using 45 metrics, each rated on a scale of 0 to 100, with 100 being the best for family life.

From the list, we’ve selected the 19 best cities for real estate investment and highlighted why they stand out. These cities deserve a spot on your preliminary checklist of family-friendly places to consider moving to.

#19 Austin, TX

Moving to the Long Star State with the whole family? Texas’s capital is a desirable destination with its vibrant culture, inclusive community, and thriving job market driven by tech companies (Google, Apple) and startups. 

Austin, TX, is one of the best places to raise a family because of its many safe, family-centric neighborhoods (Round Rock, Mueller, Lakeway), top-notch healthcare facilities, including specialized pediatric care hospitals like Dell Children’s Medical Center, Texas Children’s Hospital – North Austin Campus, and St. David’s Children’s Hospital.

Looking for fun activities for all ages? Austin has got you covered with its abundant activities and attractions. Enjoy green spaces like Zilker Park and Lady Bird Lake, and spark curiosity at The Austin Nature and Science Center. Additionally, the quality of education will never be a concern because Austin has some of the best school districts in all of Texas.

The Austin real estate market is balanced, competitive, and diverse, with housing options that include spacious single-family homes on acreage, charming townhouses, and 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom apartments for active families looking to reside in the midst of it all. In the near term, experts predict that this Texas market will continue to grow as the economy recovers and interest rates steady.

Population: 979,882 | Cost of Living Index: 129.1 | Median Home Value: $515,342 |  Median Family Income: $86,556 | School System Rank: A+ |Top Zip Codes: 78703, 78705, 78731, 78751, 78756, and 78757

#18 Virginia Beach, VA

If you envision your kids growing up on the water, relocating to Virginia Beach makes complete sense. The premier beach community has 38 miles of coastline and prides itself on its low overall violent crime rate, excellent education, and family-oriented suburbs while still providing desirable proximity to all urban areas across “America’s First Region,” which encompasses the larger cities of Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Suffolk.

With many kid-focused programs supervised by The Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation Department, water-based sports for all tastes (kayaking, surfing, canoeing, boating, fishing, and more), and more than 4,000 acres of parks and green areas, there’s no doubt why VA Beach is one of the best towns to raise a family in the United States. 

But Virginia Beach is not only a place of boardwalk strolls and seaside resorts but also a place where kiddos ride their bikes, have their shoes filled with sand at any given time, and enjoy the beauty and possibilities of the four-season weather. They will also receive a quality education. The city has schooling options for every need, serving locals with 87 public schools and 37 private campuses. 

As a fast-growing, coastal town, the Virginia Beach real estate market is pretty competitive yet not as pricey as other markets in Virginia. Homes go pending quickly, so if you want to secure a roof in this housing market, work with an aggressive, trusted agent. Most housing types here are sprawling, single- or two-story houses and duplexes.

Population: 453,649 | Cost of Living Index: 104.8 | Median Home Value: asas |  

Median Household Income: $87,544 | School System Rank: A | Top Zip Codes: 

23451, 23454, 23455, 23456, 23462

#17 Chandler, AZ

Lovely Chandler is situated just southwest of Phoenix and has been listed for years on many “best cities to raise a family” rankings. With a comfortable size, dozens of family-friendly festivals, premium park and recreation programs, and a school district rated number one in Arizona, Chandler is a sunny spot to put down roots and flourish. 

In Chandler, outdoor activities are plentiful, and you have 330 days of sunshine to enjoy them. A top spot for active locals is the Paseo Trail, a concrete multi-use pathway for biking, jogging, or walking. 

The city has also put a lot of resources into its green spaces, so families relocating to Arizona can enjoy more than 60 city parks with additional recreation. That includes public pools, playgrounds, splash areas, and the terrific BMX park, the first city-owned park in Arizona. 

The Chandler downtown area stands out for its historic charm and contemporary amenities. The local eateries, shops, and cafés are welcoming and diverse, so you will always have plans to do with the kids or as a couple. 

The Chandler real estate market is competitive but somewhat stable. During 2024, 34.8% of homes decreased in price, which means prices are adjusting to prevent price inflation and create more opportunities for buyers like yourself looking to close deals in the area. The annual appreciation of above 9%, strong rental market, and growing population and economy all make Chandler a great option to buy a suburban single-family home and settle for good. 

Population: 280,167 | Cost of Living Index: 113 | Median Home Price: $400,880 | Median Household Income: $99,374 | School System Rank: A+ | Top Zip Codes: 85224  85225, 85226, 85248

#16 Lincoln, NE

Lincoln offers relocating families a low cost of living, affordable housing, a diverse job market, 132 parks & 130 miles of trails, and top-notch schools. So, if you want to thrive in the heart of the Midwest and do so inexpensively without renouncing quality living, it doesn’t get any better than Lincoln. 

Nebraska’s capital covers 100 square miles, is highly populated, pet-friendly, and has mild, somewhat temperate weather. Moving here is moving to a tight-knit community where you can finally enjoy a healthy work/life balance (Lincoln was rated the second city for work-life balance in the country in 2019). Take the children to the Sunken Gardens or the National Museum of Roller Skating for activities for all ages.

As family head, education is undoubtedly top-listed in your relocating plans, and Lincoln will not disappoint. Lincoln Public Schools, the local school district, ranks as one of the top in the nation, with Sheridan Elementary and Lincoln East High School topping the ranks.

The Lincoln housing market is known for its affordable prices, but that does not mean it is cooling. According to Nebraska real estate reports, supply is surging, and demand is consistent, a sign of a stable housing landscape. Real estate options for buyers in Lincoln are diverse, but most range between $200K – $400K. Options include large suburban houses, new-construction homes, and smaller entry-level dwellings. 

Population: 294,757 | Cost of Living Index: 92.6 | Median Home Price: $275,741 | Median Household Income: $67,846 | School System Rank: A- | Top Zip Codes: 68512,  68512, 68516, 68516, 68506, 68506, 68502

#15 Madison, WI

One of the best places to live in the Midwest and the U.S., The City of Four Lakes keeps attracting families with its laid-back waterside environment, family-centric culture, and natural beauty. It also has more playgrounds and parks per capita than the top 100 largest cities in the country, so there will be no occasion for boredom here.

This is a thriving, fast-growing city with a young, diverse population where there’s always something happening. Public transportation is functional, locals love going everywhere by bike, and the cost of living is reasonable. Families would love neighborhoods like Maple Prairie, a highly praised area in southwest Madison with impressively low violent crime rates and larger residences along tree-lined streets.  

Madison has plenty of things to do for all interests and ages, including must-see iconic buildings downtown, indoor stadiums, farmers markets, and many architectural gems produced by Frank Lloyd Wright. Kids will enjoy the Madison Children’s Museum, which has interactive exhibits and an activity calendar, as well as the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty to do with five lakes and over 200 parks at their disposal. 

Quality of life also means good healthcare, and Madison has world-class hospitals like UW Health and St. Mary’s Hospital. Madison schools are also a major draw for potential relocators. Three high schools in the area rank in the top 10 of all Wisconsin according to Niche.com

Families moving to real estate in Madison, WI, should move fast since the market is in high demand with stable prices. The housing offerings in Wisconsin’s capital include gorgeous custom homes, spacious condominiums, sizeable suburban single-family residences, and charming attached townhouses. 

Population: 280,305 | Cost of Living Index: 103.4 | Median Home Price: $391,053 | Median Household Income: $70,484 | School System Rank: A+ | Top Zip Codes: 53717, 53705, 53719, 53562, 53711

A scenic street view with palm trees lining both sides, quaint buildings, and a church steeple in the distance. Traffic lights are visible. The image has a blue hexagonal graphic overlay with the letters "ez" on the right side.

#14 Charleston, SC

Filled with southern charm, friendly residents, and beautiful beaches, Charleston is worth considering if relocating to the East Coast is on your mind. The neighborhoods in Charleston have their own personality and flavor. Wagener Terrace is a great spot for active urbanites, while South Mount Pleasant is a top alternative for beach proximity with classic amenities. Are you looking for more affordability and still large lots? Head to West Ashley or James Island.

Family-focused outdoor activities are everywhere in Charleston, so be ready to enjoy 1,809 acres of parks and open spaces, the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, or the South Carolina Aquarium. You can also explore the Charleston City Market as a family. Adult plans may include catching a performance at the Charleston Music Hall, cobblestone street strolls, discovering new culinary wonders, and sailing in Charleston Harbor. Of course, beach fun is always on the agenda here. 

Many military families consider a move to Charleston due to its proximity to Joint Base Charleston. If that’s your case, you will have many benefits, including military housing both on and off base, local schools with programs that support military children transitions, and numerous organizations and support systems for military families, including the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and the Air Force Aid Society.

The educational system in Charleston is robust, with 31 schools rated “Excellent” and 24 schools rated “Good” in the Charleston County School District (CCSD). The local Academic Magnet High School is ranked #7 in the National Rankings. 

The Charleston real estate market is a hot seller’s market, showing low inventory and increased demand. According to many sources, the South Carolina housing market will keep moving fast in 2025, so if you want to buy a house in Charleston, start looking immediately. Top options include spacious single-family homes in quiet cul-de-sacs, mansions on landscaped land with water views, and elegant penthouse-level apartments with views of the Charleston Harbor.

Population: 155,369 | Cost of Living Index: 112 | Median Home Price: $561,579 | Median Household Income: $89,083 | School System Rank: A | Top Zip Codes: 29482, 29451, 29439, 29401, 02643

#13 Scottsdale, AZ

Up-and-coming Scottsdale, with its gorgeous desertscapes and best-in-class educational options, has been on the radar of new and established families for a few years. Safety is one of its many perks. Scottsdale has about half the national average crime rate, which is a big deal and one of the reasons it earned a spot among the top five safest cities in America, according to Law Street Media.

Now that your kids are safe, let’s entertain them. Recreational opportunities in Scottsdale include outdoor attractions across 46 parks, including 16 city parks and plentiful open spaces where you can ride your bike or hike with vistas. Other family-centric things to do are OdySea Aquarium and the Desert Botanical Garden. 

A highlight of Scottsdale is its high median household income, manageable cost of living, and diverse neighborhoods like McCormick Ranch, Gainey Ranch, and Grayhawk. The city has a commendable graduation rate regarding public education, and there are many quality charter and private schools, including BASIS Scottsdale and Great Hearts Academies – Scottsdale Prep.

For those wanting to be homeowners here, the Scottsdale real estate market is dynamic, with surging active listings and decreased days-on-the-market. Predictions indicate that the local housing market will continue to grow with particularly favorable conditions for sellers in the entry-level market. Properties in Scottsdale include houses with contemporary designs, more traditional Spanish hacienda-inspired residences, and even land for sale. 

Population: 244,394 | Cost of Living Index: 113 | Median Home Price: $830,954 | Median Household Income: $104,197 | School System Rank: A | Top Zip Codes: 85284, 85718, 85251, 85286, 85750

#12 San Francisco, CA

Homebuyers not limited by their budgets can live in a family-friendly city in Cali, a.k.a. San Francisco. The San Francisco Bay Area is artsy, sophisticated, and home to Silicon Valley, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. Eclectic, fast-moving, and an exploration hub, San Francisco is for those wanting to raise their children in an environment that nurtures curiosity and creativity while embracing diversity, innovation, and forward-thinking values.

We all know that living here is high value (the overall cost of living is twice as high as the rest of the US), but you have many perks to make for it, and access to nature is a top one. Family beaches like Crown Beach, Ocean Beach, and Stinson Beach, as well as iconic parks, including Alamo Square Park, are places families visit regularly. Still, they also enjoy many patches of wilderness that help you forget you’re in a huge metro area. 

The fantastic climate, walkability, top-ranked school system, abundance of historic landmarks and museums, and proximity to several amazing cities and areas (Half Moon Bay and the Napa and Sonoma wine country) are additional benefits. And there are high-paying jobs as well. When searching for a neighborhood or suburb in San Francisco, consider areas like Berkeley, Benicia, Danville, Livermore, and Pleasanton. 

The San Francisco real estate market is red hot. Housing in the Bay Area grew 16.2% in October compared to the previous year, according to data from Norada. Prices here rarely fall under the million-dollar mark, and the housing supply is limited, so competition is fierce. You will need the guidance of an experienced local real estate agent with outstanding negotiation skills.

Population: 808,988 | Cost of Living Index: 245.5 | Average Home Value: $1.2M  | Median Household Income: $136,689 | School System Rank: A | Top Zip Codes: 94591 · 94591, 94519, 94519, 94949, 94949, 95127, 95127

#11 Bismarck, ND

Small, comfortable, and perfect for outdoorsy families looking for affordability, community, and a diverse economy, North Dakota’s capital is one of the best towns to raise a family in the nation. It’s true; winters here can be pretty chill, but you’ll fall in love with spring, summer, and fall. This four-season climate allows for endless recreation, so get ready for golfing, hiking, cycling, camping, hunting, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

As a relatively small city (Bismarck is more sparsely populated than other cities in this list), the community here is welcoming, with locals eager to lend a hand to assist in any way they can so you may find friends, or at least like-minded people, in no time. You will also enjoy a quality of life, with the desirable small-town feel, breathtaking landscapes, access to quality healthcare, and good education for your children. 

Take the kids to Keelboat Park, Dakota Zoo, and Raging Rivers Waterpark for a fun afternoon. There are state and national parks (Cross Ranch State Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park), national historic sites, and prairies to discover for more planned activities. 

The Bismarck real estate market trends show competitiveness and a growth of about 9% compared to the previous period. North Dakota properties for sale in this town consist mostly of entry-level single-family homes, some ranch-style residences on acreage, and custom-built residences with incredible views of the Missouri River. 

Population: 75,092 | Cost of Living Index: 95.2 | Median Home Value: $348,535 | Median Household Income: $76,014 | School System Rank: A- | Top Zip Codes: 58501, 58502, 58503, 58504, 58505, 58506

A busy beach scene with crowds on the sand and in the water near a long pier extending into the ocean. Sunny weather with clear blue skies. A graphic overlay with a hexagonal logo featuring "ez" is on the left side of the image.

#10 Huntington Beach, CA

With its rugged hill backdrop, beachy lifestyle, and great family-first suburbs, Surf City USA embodies everything southern California is about. Huntington Beach, nestled in Orange County and along the Pacific Coast, is praised for its perfectly mild weather, higher-than-average cost of living, and resort-style amenities for all ages. It is also 36 mere miles from Los Angeles and 90 from San Diego. 

When it comes to public education, the city has many A-rated districts and top-ranked schools, such as Newland (William T.) Elementary and Ralph E. Hawes Elementary. Private and charter schools, community and extracurricular activities, and parental involvement exist. As per the economy and job market, Huntington Beach relies on industries such as tourism and technology.

Owning a home in Huntington Beach will mean tons of coastal fun and open spaces to hike, ride a bike, or walk the dog. The city operates 78 parks, totaling 764.55 acres. The Bolsa Chica State Beach and Huntington State Beach state parks also stand out as must-visit locations for local families and active tourists.

Like many markets in California, Huntington Beach real estate is high-worth and somewhat competitive. On average, homes here sell for roughly 1% below the asking price and typically go under contract within about 40 days. The typical property for sale in Huntington Beach is a quaint 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, entry-level single-family home or a cozy condominium.

Population: 192,129 | Cost of Living Index: 164.9 | Median Home Value:  $1.3M | Median Household Income: $114,747 | School System Rank: A+ | Top Zip Codes: 90742, 92605, 92615, 92646, 92647, 92648

#9 Boise, ID

The Boise metro area, one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, is getting attention and appearing in virtually every “best place to raise a family” list. Many relocating families are moving to the City of Trees for its top-notch blend of low unemployment rates (3.4%), scenic beauty, and family-oriented character, all desirable factors any family will weigh when looking to relocate.

But that’s not all. Boise is also home to an energetic, highly walkable downtown filled with great local shops (over 100), restaurants (80), breweries, and nightlife venues. Boise Centre also has a busy calendar of festivals, farmers markets, and arts & cultural activities for every family member. 

When it comes to schooling opportunities for families, you’ll find many here. The Boise School District offers quality education, a student ratio of 16:1, and outperformance in state and national standardized tests. Some local high schools, including Boise High School and Timberline High School, are among the top in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Looking for the best place to live in Boise? If aesthetics and proximity to modern amenities are a must for you, the historic North End is dreamy, with many Craftsman and Victorian houses and many trails to wander. For more diversity and a bunch of comfortable Mid-century single-family houses, any neighborhood within “The Bench” is great for settling.

Families moving to a house in Boise should do so quickly, so this is a seller’s market. The city is growing exponentially, influencing market behavior, which will continue to grow in the next period. That being said, now is a great time to consider entering this Idaho real estate market. 

Population: 235,421 | Cost of Living Index: 119.6 | Median Home Price: $478,245  | Median Household Income: $79,977 | School System Rank: A- | Top Zip Codes: 83702, 83712, 83706, 83716, 83703, 83642

#8 San Diego, CA

Home to one of California’s most wanted urban real estate markets, amazing schools, 400 parks, 26 miles of shoreline, and a plethora of experiences, programs, and attractions built for kids (including Belmont Park, San Diego Zoo, and Balboa Park), a family can thrive in San Diego like nowhere else in California. 

Top family-first neighborhoods in “America’s Finest City” are Poway, with its rural-urban charm; Encinitas, with its lauded surf culture; the master-planned haven of Carmel Valley; and coastal jewel Del Mar. These communities are known for their low crime rates, high-value residential options, and enviable amenities, including scenic parks, community events and programs, playgrounds, and other recreational facilities.

San Diego’s public and private school systems are of high quality. Special mention to the charter school network. San Diego County has a high school graduation rate of 85%, and top-performing campuses include Canyon Crest Academy, The Preuss School UCSD, and Del Norte High School. 

When ready to invest in San Diego real estate, be prepared for intense competition and paying top dollar. While the market is shifting to a more balanced moment, finding a single-family home priced under a million is rare in San Diego. The housing supply includes single-family residences with versatile layouts, backyards and pools, and more humble, entry-level options, like condos. 

Population:1.3M | Cost of Living Index: 154.9 | Median Home Price: $1M  | Median Household Income: $105,780 | School System Rank: A | Top Zip Codes: 92075, 92075, 92130, 92130, 92121, 92014

#7 San Jose, CA

San Jose, CA, is located at the southernmost point of the San Francisco Bay Area in the heart of the Santa Clara Valley. The city is one of the top places to raise a family on the West Coast. Generally, it appeals to those seeking California real estate with a warm Mediterranean climate, top-performing schools, and the ideal blend of city energy and suburban tranquility.

Families moving to the area lead a high-income life with plenty of culture and activities, a lovely natural setting, and a dynamic, technology-oriented employment landscape led by international tech companies with headquarters here. This is why this California city has earned the name “The Capital of Silicon Valley.”  

San Jose encompasses highly-rated public schools like Murdock-Portal Elementary School and Lynbrook High School. There are also prominent higher education institutions like the San Jose State University, whose graduate program is nationally recognized. Outside of school, families in San Jose enjoy 393 parks, 60+ miles of trails, and kid-centric destinations like the Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, Tech Interactive, and the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose. 

A single-family home in San Jose costs an average of $1.4M; trends show there won’t be significant changes in this reality soon. The demand is exceptionally high (homes sell after 14 days listed), and the inventory is low. If you want to enter this California market, list a coveted local agent to guide you in your hunt. 

Population: 969,655 | Cost of Living Index: 231 | Median Home Value: $1.4M  | Median Household Income: $136,010 | School System Rank: B+ | Top Zip Codes: 95129, 95132, 95148, 95120, 95110

#6 Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert is an up-and-coming town in Arizona that often ranks as one of the safest places in the country. The Phoenix suburb offers around 300 sunny days per year, a thriving job and business sector, one of the best public school systems in all of Arizona, as well as outstanding private education for parents who may prefer it. 

Activities for families are plentiful in Gilbert. You can explore over 60 miles of trails and beat the summer hit in one of the local public pools ( Perry Pool or Williams Field Pool. Or go to Morrison Ranch Lake for a fishing adventure, explore farmers’ markets, or challenge yourself at one of the golf courses in Gilbert, AZ. Art exhibits and performing venues are also part of the things to do menu in town. 

If healthcare is essential for your family, Gilbert offers top-rated hospitals that provide pediatric care, maternity services, and family medicine, including Banner Gateway Medical Center. You can head to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, 22 miles northwest of Gilbert’s town center, for more specialized care. 

Relocators to Gilbert, Arizona, have 59 distinct neighborhoods to choose from, but the best ones for families are Power Ranch, Silver Creek, and the planned community of Seville. The homes for sale in Gilbert, AZ, are moderately priced and 

Population: 275,411 | Cost of Living Index: 113 | Median Home Value: $577,650  | Median Household Income: $115,179 | School System Rank: A | Top Zip Codes: 85142, 85234, 85295

Ferris wheel by a waterfront with buildings and modern skyscrapers in the background. A hexagonal logo with 'ez' is on the left side over a teal hexagon pattern.

#5 Seattle, WA

For families looking for a city lifestyle, Seattle may be the buzzing metropolis to found and flourish. The Emerald City is well-educated, bike-friendly, and has variety of industries (communication, tech, science/research) offering high-paying jobs. Another major draw of Seattle is the absence of state income tax. 

In addition, families appreciate the top-performing public schools. According to Niche.com, Seattle Public Schools (SPS) ranks 17th out of 238 school districts in Washington. Private education is also high-caliber in Seattle, with Lakeside School and The Overlake School rambling #1 and #2 best private schools in the Seattle area. 

if you’re considering planting roots in Seattle, classic family-friendly communities here include Greenwood, Queen Anne, Ballard, and Laurelhurst. Recreation-wise, you can enjoy the Seattle Art Museum, Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Science Center, Woodland Park Zoo, and the Museum of Pop Culture. The city’s park system encompasses over 485 parks, covering around 6,500 acres, for hiking, walking, cycling, kayaking, picnicking, birdwatching, and more. 

Seattle is a strategic spot to acquire real estate in Washington due to its high appreciation rates and faster sales with fewer bidding wars. Families relocating to Seattle should know they will pay premium prices. Still, they are investing in a market that has consistently outperformed national trends for a decade with a cumulative appreciation of 98.3%. 

Population: 755,078 | Cost of Living Index: 158.1 | Median Home Value: $848,982  | Median Household Income: $116,068 | School System Rank: A+ | Top Zip Codes: 98057, 98057, 98311, 98311, 98014, 98014, 98346, 98346.

#4 Plano, TX

The second Texan city on the list ranks #4: Plano, the comfortable northern Dallas suburb. Low-key, highly livable, and home to several Fortune 1,000 companies in many industries, Plano is a safe, warm spot to set residence in the Lone Star State. 

Relocators looking for a top-rated education system will find it in Plano. The Plano Independent School District has strong academic programs and has been ranked the 13th-best school district in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The city also has well-maintain infrastructure and consistently low crimes. 

Families in Plano benefit from family-focused activities and amenities. Plano boasts 85 parks (including 800-acre Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve Trail and 200-acre Arbor Hills Nature Preserve) and 98 miles of pathways for hiking and biking if you are an outdoor enthusiast. For indoor fun, locals favor interactive attractions like the Crayola Experience, the Heritage Farmstead Museum, and shopping opportunities at The Shops at Legacy.

Plano real estate is somewhat competitive, and prices have increased 8.9% since last year. This is one of the top suburban housing markets in all Dallas-Fort Worth. A piece of real estate in this Texan city spend 38 days on the market before going pending. The vast majority of the available homes consist of spacious suburban residences featuring four or more bedrooms and situated on large, well-sized lots.

Population: 290,190 | Cost of Living Index: 111.7 | Median Home Value: $512,377  | Median Household Income: $105,679 | School System Rank: A | Top Zip Codes: 75093, 75024, 75025, 75082

#3 Irvine, CA

Irvine, CA, is one of the best places to live in Southern California. Conveniently located south of Los Angeles and north of San Diego, this Orange County gem is one of the largest master-planned communities in the U.S. Irvine is clean and vibrant, with a quaint collection of villages, abundant natural beauty, state-of-the-art amenities, and some of the best schools on the West Coast under the guidance of the top-performing Irvine Unified School District.

The city consistently ranked among the safest places to live and raise a family in California. It was also named the second healthiest place to live in America in 2021 and the fifth happiest city in the nation in 2022. Irvine is also home to one of the fastest-growing and diversified economies in Orange County.

Families moving to Irvine, CA, have access to over 6,500 acres of green spaces, 43 acres of trails, and 356 parks, including Orange County Great Park and coastal Crystal Cove State Park. There are also museums like the Pretend City Children’s Museum and attractions like the amusement park Boomers Irvine and Strawberry Farms Golf Club, an 18-hole public golf.

Being a prime residential location in “The Golden State,” more specifically in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area, the Irvine housing market can only be described as scorching hot. This Orange County city has an average home price of $1.5M, an increase of 16.1%  since last year. Top places to buy Invine, CA, real estate for sale include Woodbridge, Turtle Rock, and Oak Creek. 

Population: 314,621 | Cost of Living Index: 164.9 | Median Home Value: $1.5M  | Median Household Income: $122,948 | School System Rank: A+ | Top Zip Codes: 92603, 92620, 92618, 92782, 92617, 92602 

#2 Overland Park, KS

Suburban peace meets big-city comforts in Kansas’s second-largest city, a place well-known for having many “Best Places To Live” accolades under its belt and a supportive environment for families looking to thrive. We’re talking about Overland Park, the mid-size city that attracts millennials with a strong sense of community, a robust job market, first-rate education, and proximity to the Kansas City metro area. 

For families with school-age kids, the city is home to Blue Valley Unified School District, which ranks 76th out of 10,561 school districts in the country. Top school choices include Lakewood Elementary School and Blue Valley North High School. The University of Kansas and the University of Missouri-Kansas City are both nearby for further education needs. 

Overland Park is also a place for community events and cultural attractions. Locals celebrate Overland Park Fall Festival every year, as well as a myriad of concerts, festivals, and community get-togethers. As for arts and cultural attractions, there is the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, while the Oak Park Mall calls for some retail therapy and foodie explorations. Outdoor fun is possible across 80 parks and green spaces.  

Overland Park real estate is part of the Kansas real estate market, characterized by surging prices and intense competition. However, Kansas City remains a relatively affordable market compared to the coastal regions of the U.S., which means you can still enjoy the quality of life at a relatively inexpensive price. 

Population: 197,089 | Cost of Living Index: 106.2 | Median Home Value: $431,430 | Median Household Income: $100,876 | School System Rank: A+ | Top Zip Codes: 66210, 66061, 66212

#1 Fremont, CA

Ranked the best city to raise a family in the United States in 2024 by WalletHub, this Bay Area city is the fourth largest one in Silicon Valley and has an advantageous location just 17 miles north of San Jose and 40 from San Francisco, so it’s considered a suburb of both. Like most cities in the area, Fremont’s economy is tech-driven, and expenses (including real estate value) reflect the quality of life offered.

Families moving here have plenty to do. Fremont is home to over 60 parks offering endless outdoor recreation, including hiking, picnicking, and biking. Popular Fremont parks include Coyote Hills Regional Park and Central Park. There are also excellent museums, festivals, shopping districts, and attractions like Mission San Jose, Niles Canyon Railway, and Ardenwood Historic Farm.

The Fremont Unified School District (FUSD), the city’s main choice for public education, oversees 42 schools and has a graduation rate of 94%, higher than the state average. San Jose Elementary School, California School for the Deaf, and the Kinder-care Learning Center are notable campuses here. Healthcare is also worth mentioning, with main facilities like Kaiser Permanente Fremont Medical Center serving the community. 

Each with a healthy collection of amenities and a unique vibe, the Fremont neighborhoods mix historic charm and modern conveniences. Top options for families looking for Fremont real estate include Ardenwood, Palms, Blacow, and Brookvale, all providing a housing catalog featuring single-family homes in a variety of architectural styles, ranch-style residences, townhouses, and spacious apartments. 

Population: 226,208 | Cost of Living Index: 195.5 | Median Home Value: $1.5M | Median Household Income: $169,023  | School System Rank: A | Top Zip Codes: 94536, 94537, 94538, 94539, 94555

Conclusion: Best Cities To Raise a Family In The United States

Here you have it: the 19 best cities to raise a family in the U.S.! One of these enclaves could be the perfect spot to buy a house and kick off your next big adventure. You probably already have a few favorites in mind, but we get it—there’s a lot to consider and plenty of opinions to factor in before making your final choice.

To really get a feel for your top picks, why not spend a few days there in a short-term rental or vacation home when you can sneak away from work? It’ll be a great way to explore the area with the children, check out the best neighborhoods, and get a sense of the overall vibe and amenities before taking the plunge on a property.

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