Best Places To Live In The US: A 2024 Guide

Are you ready to move, but you just aren’t sure where? There are so many factors to consider when choosing to relocate. After all, what makes one place better than somewhere else?

For some, it might be good schools – for others, maybe close proximity to work is a top priority. Everyone will have different preferences for where they should live, but there are a few general things that can help impact your decision, like affordability, crime rate, average salary in the area and more.

To help you narrow down your search, let’s take a look at some of the best places to live in the U.S., as determined by those important factors.

The Top 20 Places To Live In The US

Looking for a new place to call home? Check out our 2024 list of the best places to live in the U.S., what makes them special and discover where to move next.

The cities on this list were determined by comparing 10 weighted factors to score each location. The factors include:

• 5-year population growth
• Median home sale price
• Percent of income spent on housing related costs
• Median rent
• Cost of living index
• Public school score
• Climate score
• Well-being index
• Search volume (popularity)
• Commute time

The full methodology is shared at the end of this post.

1. Cedar Rapids, Iowa

• Population: 173,200
• 5-year population growth: 31%
• Median home sale price: $185,000
• Median income: $64,435

Iowa is a popular state to relocate to due to its general affordability. Cedar Rapids is one of the best places to live in Iowa. This city has a strong job market and quality education system, and is home to many green spaces and outdoor amenities, including more than 90 parks.

This area is known for its safety and community feel. But Cedar Rapids is still conveniently located near many other Midwest cities, including being within a four hour drive from Des Moines, Omaha, Chicago and Milwaukee.

Be sure to check out homes for sale in Cedar Rapids, IA, and Cedar Rapids housing market trends.

2. Peoria, Illinois

• Population: 151,400
• 5-year population growth: 30.9%
• Median home sale price: $127,753
• Median income: $55,955

Peoria is another quickly growing low-cost-of-living city, located in Central Illinois. It is home to a wonderful health system, including OSF Saint Francis Medical Center and Bradley University. There are plenty of city amenities while still maintaining that smaller town feel. 

Additionally, Peoria is located along the beautiful Illinois River and is home to tons of recreational activities and opportunities, making it a great fit for people who love spending time outdoors.

Sound good? Check out homes for sale in Peoria, IL, and Peoria housing market trends.

3. Davenport, Iowa

• Population: 161,800
• 5-year population growth: 58.1%
• Median home sale price: $179,571
• Median income: $54,630

Davenport is located on the Mississippi River along the Iowa and Illinois border. It is part of the Quad Cities area, which also includes Bettendorf, East Moline, Moline and Rock Island. The downtown features many historical areas and beautiful views of the Mississippi River.

This is an area that has been experiencing significant population growth and is up-and-coming but is still relatively affordable, for now.

Ready to move? Check out homes for sale in Davenport, IA, and Davenport housing market trends.

4. Billings, Montana

• Population: 323,900
• 5-year population growth: 195.4%
• Median home sale price: $351,950
• Median income: $77,711

Billings is a city located near the southern border of Montana. This city has one of the larger populations on our list, and the area has had explosive growth in the past 5 years. Many people are drawn to the gorgeous mountains and scenery, and the fact that Billings is featured as one of the best places to live in Montana.

Even with the new growth, Billings has a strong local economy and low unemployment. The gorgeous scenery, good economy, affordable cost of living and friendly community come together to make Billings an excellent place to live.

Check out homes for sale in Billings, MT, and Billings housing market trends.

5. Abilene, Texas

• Population: 184,600
• 5-year population growth: 49.7%
• Median home sale price: $210,000
• Median income: $61,694

Next on our list is Abilene, Texas, a town located west of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. However, this area is much more affordable to live in and purchase a home compared to Dallas. And, while you can commute to Dallas, there are plenty of things to do in Abilene, including visiting the Abilene State Park and attending events at the three local colleges: Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University and McMurry University.

Abilene has a family-friendly atmosphere, with affordable housing, good schools and many parks and recreation areas. It’s home to Frontier Texas, which is the annual West Texas Fair & Rodeo. Plus, Texas is one of the few states with no state income tax, which could save you a significant amount of money in the long run!

Be sure to check out homes for sale in Abilene, TX, and Abilene housing market trends.

6. Bloomington, Illinois

• Population: 185,300
• 5-year population growth: 137.7%
• Median home sale price: $239,882
• Median income: $67,592

Bloomington is a fast-growing city in central Illinois. It is home to Illinois Wesleyan University and considered a twin city to Normal, Illinois, the home to Illinois State University. Because of these universities, there are a ton of events always happening in the area.

Bloomington is considered family-friendly with lots of parks, good schools and affordable homes. This lower cost of living paired with the proximity to several larger cities – Chicago, St. Louis and Indianapolis – are all within a 3 hour drive. 

Does Bloomington sound perfect for you? Check out homes for sale in Bloomington, IL, and Bloomington housing market trends.

7. Redding, California

• Population: 366,300
• 5-year population growth: 299.1%
• Median home sale price: $414,999
• Median income: $68,551

The next city on our list is Redding, California. Of course, the cost of living in California is on the higher end of our list. But Redding, a city in northern California, has a reasonable cost of living compared to the rest of the state and relatively affordable housing.

One of the best things about Redding and the surrounding area is the climate. The weather is mild, but they still experience the seasons. The area has beautiful mountain ranges, including the Cascade Range, perfect for hiking and camping. It is also right on the Sacramento River, perfect for fishing and hiking.

Does Redding sound perfect for you? Check out homes for sale in Redding, CA, and Redding housing market trends.

8. Lynchburg, Virginia

• Population: 215,200
• 5-year population growth: 165.7%
• Median home sale price: $255,028
• Median income: $49,076

Prefer the east coast? Consider moving to Lynchburg, Virginia. This city is home to several colleges and universities including Liberty University, Lynchburg College and Randolph College. The area continues to grow quickly because of these schools, but the cost of living remains low.

Lynchburg is located in central Virginia and is considered a convenient location with easy access to other major cities like Richmond, Charlottesville and Roanoke. With its position in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and along the James River, there are many opportunities for outdoor recreation.

If you’re ready to learn more, check out homes for sale in Lynchburg, VA, and Lynchburg housing market trends.

9. Erie, Pennsylvania

• Population: 98,200
• 5-year population growth: 0.9%
• Median home sale price: $143,749
• Median income: $43,839

Erie is one of the most affordable cities in America. There is a low cost of living and cost of housing. The area is not growing quickly, and jobs may be hard to find. This city might be best for those who have already secured a remote job and are looking for a low-cost area to do it from.

Erie is located on the shores of Lake Erie, and has tons of opportunities for beachgoing, hiking, boating and camping. Additionally, the city gets all four seasons – from a warm summer to a snowy winter – which can be extra magical on the lake.

Be sure to check out homes for sale in Erie, PA, and Erie housing market trends.

10. Conway, Arkansas

• Population: 236,400
• 5-year population growth: 259.3%
• Median home sale price: $225,000
• Median income: $61,898

Conway is known as the city of colleges and is home to the University of Central Arkansas, Hendrix College and Central Baptist College. This gives the area a strong and quickly growing economy. But the housing prices are still lower than many comparably sized cities.

This area is only 30 miles from Little Rock, the state capital, but is also close to the Ozark Mountains. This combination of rural and city life can make for a wonderful experience and lifestyle.

Ready to move? Check out homes for sale in Conway, AR, and Conway housing market trends.

11. Hoover, Alabama

• Population: 393,400
• 5-year population growth: 363.2%
• Median home sale price: $413,850
• Median income: $103,194

The next city on our list is Hoover, a suburb of Birmingham, Alabama. Hoover is a quickly growing city, but still maintains a low cost of living and housing. Living in Hoover can give you easy access to the amenities of Birmingham, without the higher costs.

Hoover has the lowest unemployment rate on our list, meaning it might be easier to find a new job in this area. Combine this with the popular school system and an up-and-coming food scene, this area is quickly becoming one of the most popular cities to relocate to in the south.

If you’re ready to move, check out homes for sale in Hoover, AL, and Hoover housing market trends.

12. Omaha, Nebraska

• Population: 485,146
• 5-year population growth: 3.9%
• Median home sale price: $275,000
• Median income: $67,450

Looking for a larger city? Omaha, Nebraska has a population of just under half a million people and is growing. But the area has managed to maintain a low cost of housing and living, despite its large size.

Omaha has a strong economy and low unemployment. Located near the Missouri River, Omaha has tons of opportunities for recreation. It is also home to the College World Series and hosts the annual Omaha Jazz and Blues Festival, so the tourism industry is thriving.

When you’re ready to move, check out homes for sale in Omaha, NE, and Omaha housing market trends.

13. Buffalo, New York

• Population: 276,491
• 5-year population growth: 6.9%
• Median home sale price: $226,708
• Median income: $48,904

Want to live somewhere where you will see a lot of snow? How about Buffalo! This city in upstate New York is a super affordable place to live, but still has many amenities of a larger city.

Buffalo is home to both an NFL and NHL team and is the birthplace of Buffalo chicken wings. What more could a sports lover want? For the nature lovers, you’re a quick drive from Niagara Falls, and close to Lake Erie, too.

If that sounds like a good fit for you, check out homes for sale in Buffalo, NY, and Buffalo housing market trends.

14. Lincoln, Nebraska

• Population: 292,623
• 5-year population growth: 2.8%
• Median home sale price: $280,000
• Median income: $62,391

Lincoln is the capital of and second largest city in Nebraska. Like most of Nebraska, the cost of living is low. This lower cost of living and housing enables you to have a more exciting lifestyle on a smaller budget. And, because of its relatively larger size, Lincoln has a lot going on.

Lincoln is home to 14 colleges and universities, including the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. It has several museums, the Nebraska State Fair and many parks and recreational areas. Plus, there is a huge scene around college football in the fall. Lincoln is a happening place!

Want to learn more? Check out homes for sale in Lincoln, NE, and Lincoln housing market trends.

15. Fargo, North Dakota

• Population: 257,500
• 5-year population growth: 108.4%
• Median home sale price: $279,224
• Median income: $59,698

Fargo is a city on the North Dakota-Minnesota border. It is the largest city in North Dakota and home to North Dakota State University. It is a super affordable place to live and buy a home – if you don’t mind the long, cold winters.

If that sounds good, check out homes for sale in Fargo, ND, and Fargo housing market trends.

16. Rogers, Arkansas

• Population: 292,200
• 5-year population growth: 339.8%
• Median home sale price: $376,705
• Median income: $81,770

Rogers is a city located in the Ozarks of Arkansas. It is located just outside of Bentonville, the home of Walmart headquarters. Because of this massive job opportunity, Rogers has experienced the largest population growth on our list. This means that there are tons of opportunities for jobs and that many new people are moving to the area every day.

This influx of people has driven up the costs of housing, but it is still very reasonable. Rogers is a great place to live for easy access to the recreation and beauty of the Ozarks and still have the amenities and job opportunities of a larger city.

Ready to move? Check out homes for sale in Rogers, AR, and Rogers housing market trends.

17. Decatur, Illinois

• Population: 92,200
• 5-year population growth: 34.3%
• Median home sale price: $94,250
• Median income: $49,714

Decatur is a city located in Central Illinois, right on Lake Decatur. The cost of living in Decatur is 22.1% less than the national average and the lowest on our list. This makes it an affordable place to live and buy a home.

Decatur has a small town feel but is still just a short drive away from Springfield, Champaign, and Bloomington-Normal. If you are looking for an inexpensive place to live that is still convenient, consider Decatur.

Be sure to check out homes for sale in Decatur, IL, and Decatur housing market trends.

18. Pueblo, Colorado

• Population: 258,400
• 5-year population growth: 132.5%
• Median home sale price: $324,975
• Median income: $51,697

Colorado is another high-cost-of-living state, but Pueblo is a surprisingly low-cost-of-living city in that area. Pueblo is located near the southern edge of the Colorado Front Range and close to the Arkansas River, giving the area tons of recreational activities and facilities.

There is a beautiful historical downtown area and sense of community. Pueblo is just a short drive away from Colorado Springs and Denver for the city amenities.

Want to learn more? Check out homes for sale in Pueblo, CO, and Pueblo housing market trends.

19. Wichita Falls, Texas

• Population: 148,900
• 5-year population growth: 42.2%
• Median home sale price: $178,000
• Median income: $56,091

Prefer Texas? Wichita Falls, in north Texas, could be perfect for you. This city has affordable housing, a low cost of living and no state income tax. It’s a great place to live to save money.

The city itself offers easy access to the Wichita River, is home to Midwestern State University and has the feel and appeal of a small town. This is a great option for those looking for a high quality of life for an affordable price.

Ready to move? Check out homes for sale in Wichita Falls, TX, and Wichita Falls housing market trends.

20. Kansas City, Missouri

• Population: 509,247
• 5-year population growth: 4.2%
• Median home sale price: $268,529
• Median income: $62,175

The final city on our list is also the largest – Kansas City, Missouri. Kansas City has a lower cost of living than most cities its size, and is popular for its low-cost housing. But there are plenty of jobs. The area is headquarters to many companies, including H&R Block, Cerner Corporation and Hallmark Cards.

It’s also home to University of Missouri-Kansas City and NFL and MLB teams. This gives the area a huge sports scene with many events happening all year long. It’s a fun city to experience!

If you want to learn more, check out homes for sale in Kansas City, MO, and Kansas City housing market trends.

Where Should You Move In The US? What To Consider

What’s most important when deciding where to buy a house will vary based on an individual's unique lifestyle and needs.

There are many top factors to consider when deciding where to live, such as:

• Home prices: Home prices will significantly affect whether you can afford to actually live somewhere. It’s important to look into home prices, and speak to someone local who can advise you on the neighborhoods or areas to look in. Just because there are technically affordable homes somewhere in the area, doesn’t mean that they are in an area that you would feel comfortable living in.
• Cost of living: Beyond housing costs, other cost of living expenses could also affect affordability of an area. Look into the average costs of gas, utilities and food. Consider your recurring expenses and activities and make sure that they align with your expectations. 
• Job market: If you will need to find a job when you move, you will absolutely want to research the local job market. Look into companies in your industry and the overall availability of jobs in the area. Pay attention to the pay rates – average pay can vary greatly by region.
• Quality of life: There are many factors that measure quality of life, such as crime rates, quality of education and access to health care. Take some time to look into these statistics before committing to move somewhere.
• Livability: Just because somewhere is fun to vacation, doesn’t mean that residents have the same experience. Talk to people who actually live there year-round, and consider taking a trip where you try to live like a resident – not a tourist – before you commit to move.

The Bottom Line

Moving to a new location is a big deal. Take the time to research and compare factors that are important to you before committing on where to go. If you are ready to buy a home, start on an application today with Rocket Mortgage^®.

Methodology: Finding The Best Places To Live In The US

Rocket Homes^SM collected and analyzed the most recent data on ten key metrics to create our rankings for the best places to live in the U.S. Here are the metrics we focused on, their weight in the ranking, the level of data we collected and the sources for each metric:

We based our metric selection on topical relevancy and public availability. Where the American Community Survey was used, we relied on 2022 ACS 1-year estimates. If consistent city-level data was unavailable, we relied on state-level information.

Overall, our analysis looked at 478 cities with Rocket Homes listings, which represent 71% of the U.S. population. If a city had violent crime rates greater than or equal to 55 and property crime rates greater than or equal to 65, we excluded them from our study.