Danielle Hale Chief Economist | realtors.com
The latest report from RentCafe has identified the top 10 most livable cities in America, based on a range of factors including affordability and income growth. According to RentCafe, livability is defined as "the combination of all of the reasons that make you happy to call a place home."
The study examined 138 U.S. metropolitan areas using 17 key metrics such as cost of living, income growth, job market health, healthcare availability, commuting time, and access to healthy foods.
Portland, Maine tops the list due to its education opportunities, income growth, and sports facilities. The median home price in Portland is $661,250. It's an ideal location for fitness enthusiasts, foodies, and young professionals.
Lincoln, Nebraska ranks second with a median home price of $249,250. It stands out for its low cost of living and strong job market. Des Moines, Iowa comes third with similar housing costs and is noted for its healthy food sources and festival scene.
Minneapolis-St. Paul in Minnesota takes fourth place with an emphasis on arts and culture alongside affordable living costs. Ann Arbor in Michigan rounds out the top five thanks to its green spaces and access to organic food.
Other cities making the list include Milwaukee in Wisconsin known for sustainability efforts; Washington D.C., which boasts excellent healthcare; Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania praised for community spirit; Green Bay also in Wisconsin offering natural surroundings; and Harrisburg in Pennsylvania recognized for its local culture.
RentCafe's findings indicate a trend towards Midwest cities gaining popularity due to their balance between affordability and quality of life attributes.
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