50 Best Places to Live in America
These days, when you think about a great place to live, what’s the first thing that pops into your head? Right: the economy. In a recent CNNMOney.com poll of more than 43,000 people, respondents named availability of good jobs as their most important concern when sizing up a town.
That finding guided the methodology that MONEY used to identify the 100 best places to live in America. This year’s list focuses on small towns—those with populations of 8,500 to 50,000. (For detailed stats on these towns plus larger places, go to cnnmoney.com/bestplaces.)
The winners were chosen by measuring and weighting the factors that Americans value most. According to the CNNMoney poll, after good jobs, the key criteria are low crime, affordable homes, lots to do, and top-notch schools. Also factored in, data on health care, diversity, weather, and move.
The top-ranked towns not only rack up terrific scores but also possess that indefinable something—a mix of community spirit, can-do attitude, and simple charm—that makes them magnets for people looking for a great little place to raise their families.
The new No.1? Louisville, Colo. For details on that town and all winners, contact us at customerservice@absomaha.com.