Lisa Mailhot | January 9, 2025
Buyers
When deciding where to live, quality of life is often at the top of the list. Factors like safety, health care access, air quality, education, and commute times weigh heavily on satisfaction. According to U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings, these priorities, coupled with data from the U.S. Census Bureau, FBI, and the Department of Labor, have determined the cities offering the best living conditions in the country.
While these cities are celebrated for their livability, affordability remains a challenge. As Realtor.com® senior economist Joel Berner noted,
“None of the ranked cities has a median listing price that is affordable to the median earner.”
Cities like Boulder, CO, and Boston, MA, require more than 70% of an average earner’s income for housing.
Still, the diverse attractions, access to nature, and opportunities in these cities continue to draw new residents each year. From the beaches of Virginia to the mountains of Asheville, there’s something for everyone in these top cities.
Whether you’re drawn to San Diego’s sandy beaches or Ann Arbor’s small-town charm, quality of life is about finding a place that fits your priorities. Ready to find your dream home in one of the country’s most livable areas? Let’s connect and make it happen!
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