2024 Best Cities to Raise a Family in America

• City in Illinois

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  Rating 4.19 out of 5  722 reviews

Current Resident: We moved to Naperville with remote jobs that allowed us to live anywhere. Why? The schools and the community! People are genuine friends here and the park district offers so many activities. The teachers in D203 are professional and teach a “can’t do YET” positivity mindset. The downtown makes the city feel small and vibrant. Summer is the best season here with Centennial Beach, swim teams for the kids and outdoor concerts. In winter residents decorated their houses in creative themes with the goal of getting on the Believe Map. There is even a Christmas trolley that drives past the best homes. Naperville is not very economical diverse, but it is international! We are European immigrants and there are people of all nationalities and many language opportunities for kids. We have moved many times and Naperville was the easiest place to feel at home.... Read 722 reviews

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• Population 149,089

• City in Texas

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  Rating 4.33 out of 5  524 reviews

Nearby Resident: I thoroughly enjoy the environment and the atmosphere. There's lots of wildlife to enjoy and walkable streets to keep entertained. However, drivers are sometimes a headache.... Read 524 reviews

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• Population 118,402

• City in Virginia

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  Rating 4.5 out of 5  291 reviews

Current Resident: It's a great place to live- a friendly and diverse neighborhood where people treat each other with mutual respect. I love it because it's a mix of suburban and rural. You get both city life and the country! It's vibrant that is filled with people of all ages. I'd like to see better nightlife. The amount of safe trails, parks, and roads in Arlington are a great way to keep active. Additionally, the public services seem to be well run, in the past few years I have generally not noticed any major infrastructure or public work issues. Overall a great place to live!... Read 291 reviews

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• Population 235,845

• City in Maryland

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  Rating 4.18 out of 5  416 reviews

Current Resident: I’ve lived in Columbia pretty much my entire life, This is my Home! I absolutely love that it’s Peaceful, Safe, Beautiful, lots of trail’s for walking & riding my bike by the water at the Lakefront! I also work at Merriweather Post Pavilion which is the Best Summer Job ever! Columbia is America’s Best Kept Secret!☺️🌿🎶🌊🌊... Read 416 reviews

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• Population 106,600

• City in Massachusetts

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  Rating 4.4 out of 5  134 reviews

Current Resident: First of all, I love living here. My biggest beef? I'm a mountain guy and as much as I love the Green Mountains of Vermont, they're still not truly mountains to me. My kids went to the public high school here and it is totally what you make of it - huge resources there for you to use, but you have to do it. Such a convenient place to live, 20 minutes to the airport if no traffic (and I'm on the far side), walking distance to mutliple grocery stores and a variety of restaurants and mostly everything I need. I'm somewhat shocked at the grades given - A+ for nightlife? Well, as long as it's before 11:30pm. B- for weather? It's great, we have four seasons and winter it's rarely gray and depressing, weather comes through and then it's sunny and happy. B- for Crime? This is a super safe place, not sure why the low rating. C- for cost of living - yes, but Cambridge and metro Boston provides a large number of high paying positions, which makes the B for jobs seems way too low.... Read 134 reviews

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• Population 117,962

• City in California

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  Rating 4.4 out of 5  620 reviews

Current Resident: Irvine comes off as a family-friendly, lively, and bustling city. It is known to be a safer city, however crime rates have been on the rise due to neighboring cities. It has a good amount of diversity, as well as lots of delicious food spots to be explored and enjoyed. There are many shopping plazas, as well as public parks that are nice for families, children, and dates. However, it does lack the walkable city aspect. There are available sidewalks all throughout the city, and lots of crosswalks, but each landmark or area tends to have quite the distance between them which makes these walks long and far. Having a car to get around would be essential as it is quite the large suburban city. Some downsides may include the fact that it is expensive, and that there is essentially no nightlife. Most of the activities to do in Irvine include eating, and the costs are not cheap. Shops and restaurants alike tend to close doors by 9-10pm with little options left after.... Read 620 reviews

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• Population 304,527

• City in Kansas

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  Rating 4.18 out of 5  483 reviews

Current Resident: I grew up in Overland Park. Great community of very nice and friendly citizens. Great schools. Terrific shopping. Good job opportunities. 20-30 minutes' drive to literally ANYTHING you'd be interested in going to. I moved away in my late 20's to the Pacific Northwest--not my cup of tea, and quite frankly, culture shock. After 3 years I couldn't WAIT to get out (not used to unfriendly people) and moved back to the Midwest, settling in suburban St. Louis-Chesterfield. Felt so good to be around friendly Midwest residents again, and I stayed for 13 years before I went through a life-changing event and then was presented with an opportunity to "Go Home" which I took. I moved back to Overland Park after about 17 years. A lot had changed. Overland Park had grown considerably, but the people were still as friendly as ever, the community was still beautifully maintained, still safe, and OP continues to draw more new residents every year. Simply a wonderful environment!... Read 483 reviews

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• Population 196,676

• City in Michigan

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  Rating 4.28 out of 5  607 reviews

Current Resident: Living in Ann Arbor, Michigan, offers a unique blend of academic, cultural, and outdoor experiences. As the home of the University of Michigan, there's a vibrant student population that contributes to a lively atmosphere. The city itself is known for its tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and diverse dining options. Residents enjoy access to numerous parks, trails, and recreational activities, especially along the Huron River. Ann Arbor also hosts various festivals, events, and performances throughout the year, catering to a range of interests. Eating in Ann Arbor is a delightful experience, with a diverse range of culinary options to suit every taste. from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, there's something for everyone. Additionally, Ann Arbor boasts a vibrant food scene with international cuisines, farm-to-table eateries, and vegetarian/vegan options. Overall, it's a dynamic and welcoming community with plenty to offer!... Read 607 reviews

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• Population 122,216

• City in Washington

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  Rating 4.38 out of 5  203 reviews

Current Resident: It's a nice suburban area turned city and I love that about bellevue. Some negatives that stands out is the way roads are laid out promotes a lot of traffic in certain areas of bellevue. Concerning because nothing is walkable. For example, 140th which is a constantly traveled road only has one single lane but an abundant and pretty landscaping on the curbs. As of this review, many road construction projects pop up so be ready for those. With the negatives aside, the wherever you live there are many shopping squares with shops from nail salons to department stores and grocery stores. The landscaping and nature throughout bellevue allows you be in nature while not having to live somewhere far away from popular cities like Redmond, Seattle, Kirkland, etc.... Read 203 reviews

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• Population 150,606

• City in Texas

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  Rating 4.12 out of 5  963 reviews

Current Resident: I have lived in Plano my entire life-- over 2 decades. I have always enjoyed being in Plano, mainly because of the family-friendly environments that you are surrounded with. There are constant activities and summer camps for the kids. The schools are top-rated and diverse! The neighborhoods are extremely safe. Almost nothing ever happens in Plano. The only downside would be the construction. Most people do not enjoy construction because it creates traffic. However, the construction is a good sign because they constantly try to keep Plano beautiful and updated. Your taxes will be put to good use here! On another note, Plano is filled with many different types of characters and you will enjoy every face you encounter. I am proud to call Plano my home.... Read 963 reviews

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• Population 284,948

• City in California

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  Rating 4.15 out of 5  283 reviews

Current Resident: I would love to see more life, more shops, restaurants, activities, coffee shops, parks, and more accessibility to a healthy lifestyle, like lower price point food options, free or low cost exercise classes, etc.... Read 283 reviews

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• Population 154,573

• City in Texas

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  Rating 4.13 out of 5  350 reviews

Nearby Resident: Richardson has a quiet suburban feel while being surrounded by the city. It's within driving distance of major shopping including grocery, pharmacy, and clothing retail. There are really diverse restaurants and eateries on nearly every corner such as Ethiopian ,Indian, Italian, and Mediterranean, but there is also your usual places like Whataburger and Chic-Fil-A. The area is very safe, children ride their bikes outside, there's a beautiful tree lined walking trail that spans several city blocks, and it's vary rare that you encounter panhandlers. The thing I like most about Richardson, is the quiet. I've lived there five years now and I have yet to encounter anyone playing loud music, throwing wild parties, or causing any amount of raucous. There is an active police presence on the roads and you instantly feel a sense of security. I would highly recommend Richardson to anyone looking for a moderately priced, safe place to live and raise a family.... Read 350 reviews

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• Population 118,063

• City in California

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  Rating 4.41 out of 5  385 reviews

Current Resident: Carlsbad is home to some of the largest Fortune 500 companies. Some of the best and accessible beaches in San Diego . It has become one of the best bike friendly cities in the country. The diversity of local restaurants is amazing! One of the largest Police departments due to its strong industrial base keeps citizens safe. A small regional airport for private planes. You would be hard pressed with the beaches and year around weather to find a better place to call home!... Read 385 reviews

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• Population 114,745

• City in California

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  Rating 3.88 out of 5  212 reviews

Current Resident: small city, conveniently located within the Silicon Valley to other major cities. Santa Clara does not have a strong downtown nor does it have great public transportation.... Read 212 reviews

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• Population 128,058

• City in California

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  Rating 4.07 out of 5  219 reviews

Current Resident: One of the highlights of Berkeley is its thriving arts and cultural scene. From world-class museums and galleries to live music venues and theaters, there's always something happening in Berkeley for art enthusiasts. Berkeley's culinary scene is also not to be missed, with a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks offering a wide array of cuisines to suit every palate. From farm-to-table eateries to international cuisine from around the globe, Berkeley's dining scene reflects the city's diverse community and commitment to sustainability and quality ingredients. The natural beauty of Berkeley is another aspect that residents and visitors appreciate. From the scenic views of the Berkeley Hills to the lush greenery of Tilden Regional Park, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors in Berkeley. The city's extensive network of parks, trails, and recreational facilities provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.... Read 219 reviews

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• Population 121,385

• City in Georgia

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  Rating 4.1 out of 5  222 reviews

Current Resident: I think myself and my community members generally appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and diverse community of Sandy Springs, Georgia. They enjoy the abundance of recreational activities, including hiking trails in the nearby mountains, as well as the city's proximity to Atlanta for additional entertainment options. Residents often praise the area's safety and well-maintained neighborhoods, making it an ideal place to raise a family. However, I think there is an opportunity for improved public transportation options and increased cultural amenities, such as more dining and entertainment venues. Additionally, there are calls for better traffic management to alleviate congestion during peak hours. Overall, while Sandy Springs offers many attractive features, there is a consensus among some residents that certain improvements could enhance the quality of life in the area.... Read 222 reviews

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• Population 107,221

• City in Texas

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  Rating 4.31 out of 5  443 reviews

Current Resident: A lot of great work being done over the east side of round rock! I love how near all the stores are. You have HEB, Salt Lick BBQ, the stadium, Kamari resort, play for all abilities park, and downtown round rock :) it’s sweet!... Read 443 reviews

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• Population 120,465

• City in California

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  Rating 4.32 out of 5  330 reviews

Current Resident: Torrance, CA, has been a delightful place to live, offering a blend of urban convenience and suburban serenity that's hard to find elsewhere. The weather here is exceptional, with sunny skies and mild temperatures almost year-round, making outdoor activities a regular part of life. The beaches near Torrance are less crowded compared to more famous Los Angeles counterparts, providing a peaceful retreat without the need to travel far. It's not just about the natural beauty, though; Torrance boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes, from authentic Japanese sushi bars to trendy cafes and international cuisine. The local community is welcoming, with numerous parks and recreational facilities that host family-friendly events throughout the year, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit.... Read 330 reviews

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• Population 145,454

• City in Texas

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  Rating 3.95 out of 5  762 reviews

Current Resident: I have lived here for almost 4 years now. I originally moved here to attend Blinn, and I went there for a few years until I recently just got accepted into Texas A&M University this past Spring 2024. I have loved this town and there are so many opportunities to do something. There are farmers markets, shopping, and too many food places to count! I love living here especially as a college student because so many people my age also live in this area, so I find it easy to connect and make friends. Housing here is also incredible and affordable, and that's a major bonus for me considering I am held responsible for my tuition and housing. I'm grateful to take charge for this though because it teaches me responsibility at a young age.... Read 762 reviews

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• Population 120,451

• City in Wisconsin

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  Rating 4.01 out of 5  786 reviews

Visitor: Madison is a beautiful city, with a lot of fun activities to engage in. It is pretty safe as there are a lot of emergency stations at regular intervals, and usually there are police patrols frequently. There are a lot of restaurants with different cuisines for those who want to try different foods. The capitol building is also beautiful and the farmer's market every Saturday is a fun trip for those who want to experience Madison. The lakeshore path is the best spot for a relaxing walk or run or even for cycling. As a student, it was also easy for me to find jobs at Madison, which allowed me to study and work part-time. The transport facilities are really useful. Maybe the only thing I would like to see change would be buses that are more frequent during weekends which would make traveling over weekends also easier.... Read 786 reviews

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• Population 268,516

• City in Virginia

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  Rating 4 out of 5  1,925 reviews

Current Resident: I have grown up going to beach towns in the south but have never been to one like Virginia Beach! The beach itself had a paved boardwalk with wonderful restaurants and family-friendly events and activities. There is abundant shopping near the beach and even rural farmland, known for strawberries, corn, and much more.... Read 1,925 reviews

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• Population 457,900

• City in Colorado

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  Rating 4 out of 5  363 reviews

Current Resident: I have lived in Virginia, California, Oregon, New Orleans, Louisiana, Chicago, Idaho...and Boulder is my favorite place I've ever lived. I came here because Bon Apetit magazine awarded it "Foodie Town of the Year" in 2012, and I'd always been impressed by Colorado when I'd traveled through here. Now I get to live here! There are myriad healthy grocery options, loads of parks and recreation opportunities, and there are ZERO "bad neighborhoods in Boulder. I'd like to see housing prices drop to a reasonable level (the median home price was $300,000 when I came here in 2012 and it's now $1.1M) and I think everyone who lives here would agree that drug crimes and homelessness are issues, but the city is working on both; I have faith that those issues will get solved. After that, diversity lacks (being in the majority, I haven't suffered as a result of this as much as I've seen others suffer). I'd also like to see Boulder take even more action for sustainability, such as restricting cars.... Read 363 reviews

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• Population 106,598

• City in North Carolina

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  Rating 4.07 out of 5  1,367 reviews

Visitor: Visiting Raleigh, NC, was a delightful experience that offered a unique blend of Southern charm, vibrant culture, and modern amenities. The city's array of museums, parks, and historical sites provided a rich and varied itinerary. I loved exploring the North Carolina Museum of Art and strolling through Pullen Park, which were both captivating and family-friendly. The local food scene was also a highlight, with a mix of traditional Southern cuisine and innovative restaurants that reflected the city's growing diversity. However, there are some aspects that could be improved. Traffic congestion in certain areas made getting around challenging, especially during peak hours... Read 1,367 reviews

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• Population 465,517

• City in Washington

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  Rating 4.17 out of 5  1,112 reviews

Current Resident: My overall experience in Seattle has been delightful, largely thanks to its breathtaking natural scenery and abundant opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The city's proximity to mountains, forests, and waterways makes it a haven for nature lovers like myself. However, one significant issue that detracts from the experience is the prevalence of homelessness, particularly in the downtown area. While the city's beauty is undeniable, navigating through areas with high numbers of homeless individuals can sometimes feel unsettling and raise safety concerns. Addressing homelessness and its associated safety challenges would greatly improve the overall experience of living and exploring Seattle.... Read 1,112 reviews

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• Population 734,603

• City in Virginia

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  Rating 4.38 out of 5  437 reviews

Current Resident: Living in Alexandria, VA is a delightful experience! Its historic charm, vibrant culture, and proximity to D.C. create a unique lifestyle. Walking through Old Town's cobblestone streets reveals charming boutiques and cafes. The community thrives with festivals and waterfront concerts. While there's room for improvement in areas like transportation, the city's parks and diverse culinary scene make it a fantastic place to call home.... Read 437 reviews

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• Population 157,594