By Alexandra Both
What is the best place to live in the U.S.? The answer varies, but livability often means striking the right balance between cost of living, city amenities and quality of life. RentCafe.com measured livability in 139 metro areas using 17 metrics divided into three categories: socioeconomics, quality of life, and location and community.
Here are the top 10 most livable metro areas in the U.S. in 2024:
1. PORTLAND, MAINE
This scenic location takes the crown as the most livable metro area in the U.S. in 2024. Plus, Portland, Maine, is also among the top five metros in the nation for both quality of life and location. Specifically, this coastal area seamlessly blends urban amenities with stunning natural landscapes.
Strong points:
- Great higher education opportunities
- Steady income growth
- Plenty of sports facilities
- Fresh food sources
- Diverse health-care providers
2. LINCOLN, NEBRASKA
The runner up is Lincoln, Nebraska, offering a mix of affordability and social living. If you’re a social butterfly or an introvert looking to step outside your comfort zone, Lincoln just might be the place for you. In fact, the metro ranked second in the location and community category thanks to its countless opportunities to connect with others.
Strong points:
- Cost of living that’s 6% below the national norm
- Strong job market
- High number of social clubs and community organizations
3. DES MOINES, IOWA
Coming in third is Des Moines. This metro area claims the top spot for location and community and ranks 12th in socioeconomics. With ample opportunities and friendly locals, Des Moines is a good match for outdoorsy families and young professionals.
Strong points:
- Healthy food sources
- Cost of living that’s 12% below the national average
- Lively festival scene
- Focus on sustainability
4. MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA
The Twin Cities metro area ranks fourth overall for livability. Known for its emphasis on wellness and community, Minneapolis-St. Paul excels in quality of life (ranked 14th) and socioeconomic factors (ranked 15th).
Strong points:
- Cultural hub status
- More than 30 colleges and universities
- Cost of living that’s 6% below the national benchmark
5. ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN
With its laid-back atmosphere (second for quality of life) and welcoming community (17th for location and community), the Ann Arbor metro area rounds out the top five. This Michigan tech hub also has the right facilities for you to kick off your fitness journey.
Strong points:
- Picturesque landscapes and green spaces
- Exciting exercise opportunities
- Focus on healthcare and healthy living
- Easy access to healthy and organic food
6. MILWAUKEE-WAUKESHA, WISCONSIN
Milwaukee-Waukesha comes in at number six with a strong focus on quality of life (ranked fourth). Residents here enjoy plenty of green space and opportunities for outdoor activities, making the area a suitable choice for those who prioritize health and wellness.
Strong points:
- Emphasis on physical well-being
- Family-friendly environment
- Commitment to sustainability
7. WASHINGTON, D.C.
The D.C. metro area ranks high for quality of life (ranked fourth), offering residents a variety of benefits. These include excellent healthcare, top-notch education, and a strong sense of community.
Strong points:
- Cultural powerhouse status with world-renowned institutions
- Excellent health-care options
- Plenty of outdoor activities and green spaces
8. PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA
Next is the Pittsburgh metro area, which ranks eighth overall thanks to its strong social scene (third for location and community) and a highly educated population. This smart and social community contributed to the area’s high livability score.
Strong points:
- Plenty of healthy foods sources
- Steady income growth
- Strong sense of community
9. GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN
The Green Bay metro area ranks ninth in RentCafe.com’s report. Though it may come as a surprise, this Wisconsin location combines affordability (fourth for socioeconomics) with a strong sense of community (14th for location and community).
Strong points:
- Scenic natural surroundings
- Deep sense of community
- Family-friendly attractions
- Cost of living that’s 8% below the national average
10. HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is tenth on our list of the most livable metro areas in the U.S. Its top advantage is its community feeling (fourth in location and community), but this Pennsylvania location also stands out thanks to its friendly vibe, beautiful natural landscapes and a growing economy.
Strong points:
- Thriving local culture
- Healthy food options
- Outdoor fun and scenic sights
MIDWEST DOMINATES TOP 20 MOST LIVABLE METRO AREAS
The Midwest shines bright with nine of the nation’s top 20 most livable metro areas. Beyond those in our top 10, Madison, Wisconsin (#12), Omaha, Nebraska (#15), and Indianapolis, Indiana (#16), also made the list. Wisconsin’s impressive showing, with three locations in the top 20, reflects its strong economy and excellent education system.
Next is the Northeast, which boasts seven cities in the top 20, including leader Portland, Maine (#1), Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (#8) and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (#10), but also Manchester, New Hampshire (#11), Albany, New York (#13), Boston, Massachusetts (#17), and Providence, Rhode Island (#19).
The West Coast counts Colorado Springs, Colorado (#14) and San Francisco, California (#18), among the nation’s most livable metro areas, but also Seattle, Washington (#20). Finally, representing the South, Washington, D.C., secures the seventh spot nationwide.
For more insights and a detailed methodology, read the full report on RentCafe.com.
