Home & LivingRetire Wellaustin texasU.S. News & World Report

The 10 Best Places To Live In The U.S.

We did not see #5 coming.
By 

Lifestyle Editor, HuffPost

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Ready to make a move? Consider this your wish list.

This week, U.S. News & World Report released its annual lineup of the Best Places to Live in the U.S. Their experts combined statistical analysis with a survey of 2,000 people to rate the country’s 100 largest metro areas on the strength of their job markets, their balance between median income and cost of living, quality of life, desirability and success in attracting new residents.

Austin, Texas won out, which is no surprise considering the huge influx of people moving to enjoy its incredible atmosphere. But Fayetteville, Arkansas surprised us with a fifth-place finish for its own population growth and incredible value.

Take a look at the rest of the top 10 Best Places to Live, then check out the rest at U.S. News & World Report.

10
Salt Lake City, Utah
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Recreational activities earned Salt Lake high marks for desirability. There are five national parks within driving distance, U.S. News notes.
9
Des Moines, Iowa
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Des Moines scored incredibly well for value, with a median home price of $168,629.
8
Boston, Massachusetts
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The strong job market in Boston helped to place it high on the U.S. News list, along with a desirable mix of urban and small-town vibes.
7
Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina
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A young, diverse crowd is moving to Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, earning the region high marks for Migration in the survey.
6
Seattle, Washington
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Seattle scored a perfect 10 for desirability thanks to its surrounding nature and calm, friendly locals.
5
Fayetteville, Arkansas
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As the home of big business headquarters and the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville attracts new residents from all over the world.
4
Washington, D.C.
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Each neighborhood in D.C. has its own personality, with nature woven throughout. Fairly temperate weather makes it easy to explore.
3
San Jose, California
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San Jose provides an ideal landing spot for those taking advantage of Silicon Valley's especially robust job market.
2
Denver, Colorado
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Denver's proximity to the Rockies attracts nature lovers, snowboarders and skiers. The cannabis industry likely added to its desirability score, too.
1
Austin, Texas
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There's much to love in Austin, from music to outdoor spaces to an average temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit. No wonder it scored so high on migration.

See the rest of the Best Places to Live at U.S. News & World Report.

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