Best Places to Live in the US

Deciding where to live can be a tough decision. Should you move to the beach or the mountains? What about the city? Country? There are countless factors that make a city great, so we've compiled a list of highly-rated places to live in the U.S. to help.

Rankings are created based on national "happiness" rankings, cost of living, unemployment rate, and more.

Austin, Texas

Deep in the heart of Texas, you'll find a hub of bustling city life with plenty of outdoor activities to fill up your weekends. Enjoy the growing music scene or kayak a nearby river. With the cost of living comparable to the rest of the US, Austin is high on the list of desirable places to live.

• Population: 950,715
• Unemployment Rate: 2.7%
• Crime Rate: 31% higher than the US average
• Cost of Living: 7% more expensive than the US average
• State Happiness Rank: 23/50
• Transit Score: 34/100

Denver, Colorado

As the capital city of Colorado, there is plenty to do in Denver. There are also four national parks within the state. A low unemployment rate and moderate transit score make Denver the ideal city for anyone looking for a mix of downtown activities and outdoor excursions.

• Population: 716,492
• Unemployment Rate: 2.8%
• Crime Rate: 58% higher than the US average
• Cost of Living: 15% more expensive than the US average
• State Happiness Rank: 19/50
• Transit Score: 47/100

Colorado Springs, Colorado

With hikes around every corner and 300,000 fewer residents than its' neighboring city (Denver), Colorado Springs is the perfect destination for homeowners looking for affordable living and all the resources of a bigger city.

• Population: 464,474
• Unemployment Rate: 3.4%
• Crime Rate: 36% higher than the US average
• Cost of Living: 0% less expensive than the US average
• State Happiness Rank: 19/50
• Transit Score: 19/100

Des Moines, Iowa

Whether you're paddling through the waves of Gray's Lake on a sunny day or hitting the slopes in the wintertime, Des Moines has fun activities for all no matter what season it is. Low unemployment rates plus the low cost of living are just two reasons Des Moines made our list.

• Population: 217,521
• Unemployment Rate: 2.4%
• Crime Rate: 85% higher than the US average
• Cost of Living: 14% less expensive than the US average
• State Happiness Rank: 11/50
• Transit Score: 30/100

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Did you know Minnesota is home to 10,000 lakes and the Mall of America? With an average cost of living and plenty of public transportation, Minneapolis definitely contributes to one of the highest state happiness ranks on the list!

• Population: 422,331
• Unemployment Rate: 3.0%
• Crime Rate: 109% higher than the US average
• Cost of Living: 6% more expensive than the US average
• State Happiness Rank: 3/50
• Transit Score: 57/100

San Francisco, California

This sunny city is filled to the brim with an expansive culture, national parks, and a thriving nightlife. Although the cost of living is much higher than the US average, homeowners can save costs on transportation thanks to the many public transit routes. Not to mention, the unemployment rate is one of the lowest on our list.

• Population: 884,363
• Unemployment Rate: 2.4%
• Crime Rate: 151% higher than the US average
• Cost of Living: 102% more expensive than the US average
• State Happiness Rank: 4/50
• Transit Score: 80/100

Portland, Oregon

There's something for everyone in Portland. A city known for its odd and quirky culture also has an astounding amount of local hikes, award-winning restaurants, and themed festivals. Located just an hour from the beach in one direction and mountains in the other, Portland could be the place for you.

• Population: 647,805
• Unemployment Rate: 3.8%
• Crime Rate: 126% higher than the US average
• Cost of Living: 23% more expensive than the US average
• State Happiness Rank: 39/50
• Transit Score: 52/100

Seattle, Washington

Home to the famous Space Needle and Pike Place Market, Seattle is a bustling city located on the rainy coast of Washington. Just outside the city are endless hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. Homeowners in Seattle will face higher costs of living but have the benefits of low employment rates and public transportation.

• Population: 724,745
• Unemployment Rate: 3.3%
• Crime Rate: 115% higher than the US average
• Cost of Living: 59% more expensive than the US average
• State Happiness Rank: 21/50
• Transit Score: 60/100

Are you ready to make the move to your dream city? Contact a Mortgage Advisor today to learn more about getting the home loan you need to make this possible.