When choosing a city to live in, several factors come into play: safety, education, healthcare and commute times. But affordability often serves as a major barrier.
This year, U.S. News & World Report has ranked Ann Arbor, MI, as the top city for quality of life in America. The ranking is based on several metrics, including the Quality of Life Index, which evaluates resident satisfaction, healthcare, air quality and overall well-being.
Cities from different regions dominate the list, with the South leading the charge, featuring six cities in the top 15. Although those places score high on quality of life, many like Boulder, CO, and Boston, MA, struggle with affordability. Here’s a look at the top 15 cities for quality of life.
15. Fayetteville, AR
- Overall score: 6.6
- Quality of life: 7.0
- Median list price: $439,125
- Median income: $57,241
Nestled in the Ozarks, Fayetteville offers plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking to fishing. It’s also a city of historical significance, housing the Clinton House Museum, and is home to the University of Arkansas.
14. Richmond, VA
- Overall score: 6.3
- Quality of life: 7.0
- Median list price: $374,948
- Median income: $64,439
Rich in history, Richmond is a charming city offering museums, fine dining and a wealth of outdoor activities. It also draws millions of tourists each year.
13. Hartford, CT
- Overall score: 5.0
- Quality of life: 7.0
- Median list price: $247,500
- Median income: $45,006
A city steeped in history, Hartford has a wealth of cultural attractions including the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum and Bushnell Park. It’s also home to literary legends like Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe.
12. Greenville, SC
- Overall score: 6.9
- Quality of life: 7.0
- Median list price: $391,264
- Median income: $70,060
A manufacturing hub, Greenville boasts a lively downtown and scenic parks. Its popular Falls Park on the Reedy and a flourishing restaurant scene add to its appeal.
11. San Diego, CA
- Overall score: 6.4
- Quality of life: 7.0
- Median list price: $899,000
- Median income: $103,838
San Diego’s sunny beaches and world-famous attractions, including the San Diego Zoo and USS Midway, make it a prime destination for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
10. Asheville, NC
- Overall score: 6.6
- Quality of life: 7.0
- Median list price: $599,000
- Median income: $65,816
Asheville offers a mix of culture and nature, from the Biltmore estate to its thriving food and craft beer scene, making it a top pick for creatives and outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Boston, MA
- Overall score: 6.1
- Quality of life: 7.1
- Median list price: $1,087,450
- Median income: $91,331
Boston stands out for its historical significance and vibrant cultural scene. With top universities, museums and an array of dining options, it offers a well-rounded lifestyle, albeit at a high cost.
8. Virgina Beach, VA
- Overall score: 6.8
- Quality of life: 7.1
- Median list price: $428,450
- Median income: $87,988
Known for its miles of beaches and water sports, Virginia Beach blends outdoor fun with rich cultural offerings like the Virginia Aquarium and museums.
7. Portland, ME
- Overall score: 6.5
- Quality of life: 7.1
- Median list price: $660,000
- Median income: $79,871
Portland captivates with its scenic waterfront, historic landmarks and art scene. However, rising living costs may be a challenge for newcomers.
6. Madison, WI
- Overall score: 6.7
- Quality of life: 7.2
- Median list price: $411,850
- Median income: $79,154
Known for its top-tier universities, Madison offers a mix of outdoor recreation, fine dining and thriving industries like IT and healthcare.
5. Raleigh, NC
- Overall score: 6.8
- Quality of life: 7.2
- Median list price: $493,346
- Median income: $84,515
Home to the renowned Research Triangle, Raleigh offers a blend of educational opportunities, craft breweries, and scenic parks, making it an attractive place for young professionals.
4. Honolulu, HI
- Overall score: 6.5
- Quality of life: 7.4
- Median list price: $648,500
- Median income: $81,679
Honolulu’s stunning beaches, warm climate and cultural landmarks make it an idyllic place to live. However, the cost of living is high, making it difficult for many to afford.
3. Boise, ID
- Overall score: 7.0
- Quality of life: 7.4
- Median list price: $569,720
- Median income: $83,928
Boise’s outdoor offerings and growing downtown scene make it a popular destination for those seeking a balance between nature and city living.
2. Boulder, CO
- Overall score: 6.7
- Quality of life: 7.4
- Median list price: $1,035,000
- Median income: $85,020
Boulder is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous parks and hiking trails. The city also has a vibrant wellness community and a bustling downtown area, though high housing prices remain a challenge.
1. Ann Arbor, MI
- Overall score: 6.6
- Quality of life: 7.7
- Median list price: $573,000
- Median income: $74,701
Ann Arbor is the clear winner, offering excellent schools, low crime rates and a family-friendly atmosphere. Its combination of urban amenities and small-town charm makes it a prime place to live.
These cities offer a balance of affordability, healthcare, education and lifestyle, though high housing costs in places like Boulder and San Diego remain a barrier for many. Even so, these cities are the best in terms of quality of life.
