Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Midwest
The Midwest is affectionately – and accurately – known as “America’s Heartland.” This region draws people in with its unique blend of down-to-earth attitudes, affordability and surprisingly diverse opportunities.
Don’t let any nostalgic description fool you: the Midwest offers everything you could want. You’ll find it all here, from water sports and vibrant coastal towns along the Great Lakes to the architecturally awe-inspiring streets of major cities like Chicago. The region successfully mingles deep-rooted small-town charm with robust industrial and agricultural economies, providing both career opportunities and a balanced quality of life.
Every year, Livability publishes our research-based Top 100 Best Places to Live in America. Our data-driven ranking examines more than 2,000 cities nationwide, using dozens of data points to pinpoint the absolute best communities for residents. Here, we’re highlighting the Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Midwest based on that research. Each of these cities has something special to offer – read on to find out which community might be the perfect fit for your next move.
1. Carmel, Indiana
People love living in Carmel, IN, thanks to the city’s thriving economy, award-winning schools and excellent health care options, which translate into plentiful job opportunities.
The 105,606 people who call Carmel home can appreciate that the city offers easy access to Indy, but they also enjoy a slower pace of life in this Midwestern city. A high safety rating also makes Carmel a comfortable place to raise a family.
The arts scene is bolstered by a variety of creative spaces, such as the Arts & Design District, which features art galleries, specialty shops and restaurants. Theater productions, concerts and other fun events are on tap at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, which includes the Great American Songbook Foundation, an affiliate of the Grammy Museum. Festivals are part of life in Carmel, keeping residents engaged year-round through activities like a winter farmers’ market. There’s plenty to do at Midtown Plaza, a cool, revitalized district with community tables and benches, an interactive play area, games and a location close to businesses big and small.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the city’s many trails – some 700 acres of parks and greenways, including the famous Monon Greenway – that make it easy to stay active. Foodies will want to sample the tasty offerings at Carmel’s many restaurants, coffee shops and breweries. Those on the hunt for their next find can head to Clay Terrace, an outdoor shopping oasis where they’ll find brand-name stores and locally-owned shops – in other words, plenty of places to drop a buck (or two!).
2. Naperville, Illinois
Those looking to enjoy the big-city amenities of Chicago will love living in Naperville. A western suburb in the Chicagoland area, Naperville residents take pride in the tight-knit community they’ve created. The city, with a population of nearly 150,000, was recently named one of the safest cities in America. Unsurprisingly, however, schools receive high marks, as does the city’s public library, which is ranked among the country’s best. People can settle down here, raise a family, work and enjoy all the community has to offer at a significantly lower cost of living than in the nearby Windy City.
There’s also a commitment to health, as residents have access to excellent hospitals and health care options, and the city-wide emphasis on being active. The Naperville Riverwalk, a 2-mile route along the DuPage River, features trails, covered bridges, fountains and numerous spots to take in the beautiful surroundings. The Riverwalk area was developed by volunteers, which aligns with Naperville’s community-minded reputation. The Riverwalk serves as a meeting space for festivals, get-togethers and concerts, and it is designed to keep everyone connected. Another plus is the ease of getting around, with commuter rail and bus service, as well as nearby O’Hare International, Midway International, DuPage and Aurora Municipal airports.
Mix that sense of community with diverse restaurants, a vibrant arts scene, family-friendly activities and lively nightlife and you can see why people want to call Naperville home.
3. Fishers, Indiana
Fishers, IN, is a place on the move. This Indianapolis suburb, the sixth-largest city in Indiana and one of the best places to live in the Midwest, offers high-quality health care, some of the state’s best schools, an incredibly low crime rate and a variety of amenities for both young professionals and families.
Some of these amenities include an abundance of restaurants, live entertainment and a thriving business community with an entrepreneurial focus. For starters, Launch Fishers is a 52,000-square-foot coworking space with more than 600 members. Another option is Hub & Spoke, a 94,000-square-foot mixed-use development in partnership with the city that attracts innovators, creators and entrepreneurs.
For a one-stop area for dining, shopping, entertainment and outdoor activities, residents head to downtown’s Nickel Plate District, which has grown significantly over the past few years, coinciding with the expanding population, now topping 103,000.
The city’s commitment to being a healthy place to live and work is evident at the Peyton Manning Children’s Outpatient Center at St. Vincent Fishers, which offers specialty pediatric care. And initiatives like the Fishers Community Impact Program, a part of Indiana University Health, are increasing the hospital campus’s square footage by nearly 50% to keep up with continuing growth.
4. Overland Park, Kansas
While it’s long been considered a gateway to Kansas City, there’s much worth sticking around for in Overland Park, KS. This city is here to convince you that the suburbs are cool. Local artists have created vibrant murals for all to enjoy, and their talent flows freely. Residents find that living in Overland Park offers abundant opportunities, thanks to its nationally ranked schools, an exciting arts scene, a thriving job market, lauded health care options, diverse neighborhoods, youth sports venues and much more.
Overland Park means business, too, with strong sectors such as manufacturing, e-commerce, finance and technology as a part of the mix. The varied opportunities have been a draw for millennials, who want to take advantage of its proximity to the Kansas City metro area. Additionally, Overland Park is the second-largest city in Kansas, ensuring residents never get bored, and it has its own distinct personality.
Overland Park is a melting pot of food with all kinds of places to sample the tasty fare, including some delicious barbecue joints – this is Kansas, after all. A dinner and a night out might include a show or concert at one of the city’s many venues, an evening at a brewery or distillery or a dinner out.
You can get your fill of outdoor adventures at one of the 83 city parks, some with playgrounds, tennis courts, splash pads and soccer fields. Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens offers outdoor splendor, featuring 300 acres of ponds, trails, open prairies and a variety of annual events. If you want to root, root, root for the home team, there are plenty to choose from in nearby Kansas City – just 20 minutes away. Sports fans can head over to see the Kansas City Chiefs rock the stage at Arrowhead Stadium.
5. Troy, Michigan
It’s not hard to see why so many people are moving to Troy, MI. After all, this vibrant suburb of Detroit has a lot going for it. For starters, it’s home to major companies, including J.D. Power & Associates, ThyssenKrupp and Kelly Services, to name a few, which help bolster the local economy. Not to mention, it’s at the center of “Automation Alley,” with global automotive technology and manufacturing as core sectors.
Combine that with a highly educated workforce (due to some academically advanced schools – both K-12 and branches of several universities) and excellent city services, and you can see why Troy is such a desirable place to live. Troy was also voted the safest city in Michigan and one of the 25 safest cities in the nation, which is one of the reasons families find it so attractive. The quality of life here is excellent, too, with an abundance of outdoor recreational activities, including 1,000 acres of parks, lakes and streams, golf courses, a skate park, disc golf and more.
The city, with a population of more than 87,000, boasts distinctive restaurants, arts amenities and a dose of history. And if you like to shop, look no further than the Somerset Collection, a 1.4-million-square-foot shopping and dining mecca that will satisfy your every need. Community engagement is at the forefront here, so getting involved and finding your niche is easy, regardless of your interests.
6. Evanston, Illinois
Evanston, IL, is the perfect suburb for people who think they don’t want to live in the suburbs. With its classic architecture, arts venues, fantastic food scene and loads of outdoor recreation, Evanston offers the best of city life within a relaxed suburban community. With Northwestern University – one of the top colleges in the U.S. – at its core, Evanston draws an intellectual crowd. And yet, with numerous fun amenities, this city of just over 76,000 residents offers something for everyone. It’s no wonder, then, that Evanston is becoming known as one of the top places to live in the Midwest.
Sitting just 13 miles north of the Windy City, Evanston is a large suburb where the cost of living is more affordable than in Chicago, but it’s still easy to commute to one of the country’s most bustling cities. Residents can also access several metro and bus connections, making commuting convenient. Evanston’s location also puts it in a unique position along Lake Michigan’s coast, so when the warm weather hits, this city has five gorgeous beaches to enjoy. While the university’s traditional brick-and-stone architecture and surrounding areas are stunning, so are the 76 parks that offer accessible outdoor recreation.
Although taking the metro into Chicago for dinner is convenient, foodies don’t need to leave Evanston to find a great meal. Food options range from casual joints to chic restaurants. Arts and culture are easily accessible in this college town. Besides the offerings on the Northwestern campus, there are fantastic music venues throughout Evanston. The city also has nine distinct business districts, and downtown hosts fun community events and numerous cool shops for anything you might want or need. Evanston is working to be more inclusive and offers countless opportunities for community involvement, allowing people to feel more connected to their city.
7. Bloomington, Minnesota
Thinking of moving to Bloomington, MN? Let us count the reasons why you’ll love living in this Minnesota gem. Home to the 5.6 million-square-foot Mall of America (can you say shop ’til you drop?!), Great Wolf Lodge Water Park and Nickelodeon Universe, located in Bloomington, just 10 miles south of Minneapolis, offers plenty of fun. Add to that excellent health care options, high-quality schools and public parks that provide numerous ways to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors.
Bloomington is also a close-knit community where the nearly 90,000 residents practice what they preach in a place that values diversity and inclusion – a few years ago, the city hired a full-time coordinator for racial equality. It is a welcoming place for companies looking to get down to business. The region boasts robust retail, health care and tourism sectors, as well as a plethora of Fortune 500 firms with a presence. Plus, an international airport nearby (the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport!) makes it easy for business travelers who make weekly commutes and those who are using up their PTO days.
This state, known for its 10,000 lakes, offers Bloomington residents nearby water-based recreational activities, as well as golf courses, bike paths, ski slopes, and other great spots to enjoy the outdoors. Other amenities include a burgeoning arts scene, chef-driven restaurants and the serene Japanese Garden on the Normandale Community College campus.
8. Bloomington, Illinois
There are numerous reasons why living in Bloomington, IL, is great. For starters, this is a college town – home to Illinois Wesleyan University. And everything that college towns offer residents is true here, too.
Like many other college towns, Bloomington offers a diverse range of cultural attractions, numerous restaurants and a wealth of other amenities. Add to that an affordable cost of living and an emphasis on sustainability, which is becoming increasingly attractive to newcomers.
Heading outdoors to enjoy a round of golf, having a play date at one of the dozens of city parks or spending a day at Lake Bloomington are even more reasons why Bloomington is such a desirable place to live. In addition, Constitution Trail offers more than 40 miles of walking and biking paths between Bloomington and nearby Normal – next-door neighbors and considered one big community – that follow the old Illinois Central Gulf Railroad. Bloomington is also steeped in history as it is the land of Lincoln. Bloomington was where the 16th president nurtured his political ambitions. The city is proud of Lincoln’s time there, and you can visit the places where the former president worked, stayed and visited on the Looking for Lincoln tour.
9. Rochester, Minnesota
Thinking of moving to Rochester, MN? Residents of Rochester have numerous opportunities to lead well-rounded, healthy lives. Home to the No. 1 hospital in the United States – The Mayo Clinic – Rochester’s 124,074 residents can access world-class health care right at home. The hospital also attracts well-educated individuals who relocate to the city with their families, thereby contributing to a highly rated public school system. The city’s value of education is also reflected in its higher education institutions, including the University of Rochester and the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine.
Healthy lifestyles extend beyond health care and education. When they’re ready to plant roots, Rochester residents have the pick of the litter when it comes to affordable housing options – from luxury homes to more modest two-story dwellings, condos and attractive apartments.
Although winters can be cold and snowy, Rochester residents embrace the elements and see them as an opportunity for various outdoor activities. Ice fishing, snowshoeing, hockey, ice skating, cross-country skiing and sledding are easily accessible and popular winter activities in the area. During the warmer months, the city offers more than 100 parks for biking, hiking, picnicking, swimming and water sports.
The community also loves all things artistic, with galleries, museums, theaters and the 200,000-square-foot Mayo Civic Center, which hosts a roster of sporting, musical and social events. The food scene offers a wide variety of interesting options for foodies, ranging from special tasting menus to tried-and-true favorites on tap.
10. Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Ever wondered why everyone is moving to Cedar Rapids, IA? The city is the second-largest in Iowa and has earned its esteemed reputation due to its affordability, inclusivity, innovation – and much more. The Cedar River, which anchors this city of nearly 136,000, offers residents opportunities to stretch their legs at nature centers and parks or on the water.
Cedar Rapids is a welcoming and diverse community that embraces its rich history. In fact, the city has earned a perfect 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index multiple times. That diversity shines through with the incredible dining, music and arts available across the city, including downtown’s Cedar Rapids Museum of Art.
The city’s manufacturing and agricultural base remain strong, but Cedar Rapids has evolved into a technology hub for defense electronics, aerospace and telecommunications. And even with those high-end jobs, the median home cost remains affordable.
Finally, the community’s proximity to farmland means fresh food is abundant and readily available to the creative chefs serving locally grown fare on their menus. And if residents crave a change of scenery, the nearby Eastern Iowa Airport makes it a piece of cake to get away before coming home to the ease that is Cedar Rapids.
11. Ann Arbor, Michigan
Everyone roots for the home team (Go Blue!) at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI. Living in Ann Arbor is a dream as it is a city with a youthful vibe, a wealth of amenities and a robust talent pool. It’s one of the best places to live in the Midwest, thanks in part to the prestigious university, which pairs well with a highly ranked public school system.
A2 – as the city is affectionately nicknamed – receives top-notch scores across the board, and it’s no wonder the city has seen a growing number of full-time residents in recent years. For the nearly 123,000 people who call Ann Arbor home, the city is an excellent place to establish roots for recent graduates, young families looking to raise a family or those wishing to experience living in an up-and-coming metro.
Health care is also first-rate in Ann Arbor, adding to the city’s innovative economy. Launching a career? Look no further than Ann Arbor, which offers jobs in artificial intelligence, data security, biotechnology and automotive innovation. All that academia trickles down to a creative culture that includes museums (the University of Michigan’s Museum of Art has more than 20,000 pieces in its collection!), independent bookstores, theater and live music performances and festivals galore, like summertime’s Ann Arbor Art Fair.
Foodies will salivate over the numerous restaurants serving up flavors from around the world, and outdoor enthusiasts will thrill at all the parks, playgrounds and trails right outside their door. The walkable downtown is a great place to shop, dine, visit a gallery, watch a film or take a mural walk. Ann Arbor is a community where residents are engaged and come together to improve the city.
12. Iowa City, Iowa
What stands out about living in Iowa City, IA? Just about everything. Located in the eastern part of the state, Iowa City boasts friendly people, an incredible arts scene, highly ranked medical care (Mercy Iowa City and the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics care for residents), safe neighborhoods and quality schools. The University of Iowa adds that fun college vibe to the city, bringing locals together to cheer on the Hawkeyes.
As far as work goes, Iowa City is home to both Fortune 500 companies and numerous startups, and is a leader in education technology. This college town in Eastern Iowa also excels in education, boasting the University of Iowa, a renowned public research university, and offering quality education for K-12 students through the Iowa City Community School District.
Ask anyone in Iowa City, well, anything, and they’ll gladly answer your question. The phenomenon of “Iowa Nice” is alive and well in Iowa City. The community of 78,000 is tight-knit, and the Hawkeye spirit is alive and well. Families enjoy exploring over 50 parks, open spaces and natural areas, as well as craft breweries, locally owned shops and a wide assortment of delectable restaurants. Old Capital Museum (always free) is a great place to enhance learning alongside other museums across the city. Finally, the creative culture here is thriving, with murals, painted downtown benches and arts programming that will appeal to everyone in the family. And if you aspire to be a writer, Iowa City is a UNESCO “City of Literature” due to its association with the renowned Iowa Writers’ Workshop, where emerging writers have honed their craft for over 80 years.
13. Lincoln, Nebraska
You could say Lincoln, NE, is smack dab in the middle of everything – and you would be right on the money! This capital city appeals to young and old alike. Lincoln has a robust economy, a low cost of living and accessible transportation options to start. The city also boasts fabulous restaurants, a growing craft beer scene and a vibrant creative culture. It’s no wonder that so many people are moving to Lincoln.
Furthermore, Lincoln is a welcoming place to settle down. Known as a refugee resettlement city, Lincoln’s 295,976 citizens are helping new neighbors acclimate and thrive. And thrive, they do! With amenities like more than 120 parks, an average commute time of just under 20 minutes and a quintessential college-town vibe, Lincoln residents are proud of where they live. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is the state’s flagship public research university, adding an academic flair to the city (Go Huskers!). Even the K-12 public school system receives high marks, setting students up for success. It’s easy to find a career you love here, with a wide variety of sectors that include business, manufacturing, health care, insurance, agriculture and transportation.
Looking for entertainment? In recent years, Lincoln has gained recognition for its thriving craft beer and foodie scenes. Check out The Railyard, an area chock-full of eateries and bars. It is located across from Pinnacle Bank Arena, which seats 15,500 people and hosts a variety of sporting events and concerts. And the Historic Haymarket District, a revitalized area of town where the past meets the present, is the place to go for dining, shopping and visual art.
14. Fargo, North Dakota
Situated on the banks of the Red River in the Red River Valley, Fargo, ND, is known for its low cost of living, vibrant arts and culture scene and diversified economy. Career opportunities range from a growing biosciences sector to companies exploring Unmanned Aircraft Systems and opportunities for entrepreneurs. Additionally, the downtown area is thriving with live music venues, brew pubs, excellent dining options, fun shops and more. So, it’s no wonder that people love living in Fargo.
The city’s more than 133,000 residents who put down roots in this prairie town have access to all kinds of places to play, including pine forests and lakes, so lace up your boots, pack the tent, rack the canoe and head out for the wild blue yonder. If you’d rather be enlightened closer to home, enjoy a musical at the Stage West Theatre or visit the Plains Art Museum, which houses an outstanding collection of Native American artwork. Or just stroll Fargo’s streets to gaze at the many murals that adorn the town.
Fargo also gets an A+ for its emphasis on education. Citizens will find excellent K-12 public and private schools, as well as North Dakota State University, making it a great place to raise a family.
15. Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sioux Falls, SD, takes top billing as South Dakota’s most populous city, with 206,536 residents. It’s a desirable place to live, with a robust economy, affordable housing, competitive schools, terrific health care options and neighbors who often turn into friends.
As if you need any more convincing as to why moving to Sioux Falls is a great idea, the city also offers a low cost of living and respectable transportation options. It’s also an excellent place for families, with over 80 parks – including the beautiful Falls Park, which has more than 120 acres and scenic falls that tumble over rocks – a farmers market and more. Other amenities include more than 30 miles of bike paths along the Big Sioux River, a roster of annual events, historic sites and cute antique shops and boutiques. For art lovers, the Washington Pavilion offers a variety of attractions, including Broadway shows, a planetarium, movies, an art gallery and a science center.
Situated on the Big Sioux River and known as the “Queen City of the West,” Sioux Falls boasts a thriving business community, with biotech, advanced manufacturing and health care among its most prominent industries. Scientists, in particular, are drawn to the area because of the U.S. Geological Survey’s Earth Resources Observation and Science Data Center. And of course, locals enjoy the variety of restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, nightlife and Sioux Falls’ walkable downtown district.
16. Appleton, Wisconsin
Known as the cultural hub of the Fox Cities, Appleton, WI, ranks among the best cities to live in for several reasons, starting with affordable housing, safe neighborhoods, and a low cost of living. And if that’s not enough to sway you, residents have access to high-quality health care with three major hospital systems, a thriving arts and culture scene (think music festivals, performing arts and live music) and burgeoning dining and entertainment offerings.
Living in Appleton is sweet, and the city, with a population of nearly 77,000, attracts both families and young professionals. Appleton overlooks the Fox River, situated just north of Lake Winnebago and near Green Bay. While the winters are snowy, that doesn’t stop anyone from enjoying all the seasons. And as it warms up, there are trails through the woods, parks, pools and fields that appeal to everyone. A summer day rarely passes without a concert, festival or market somewhere in Appleton, as the residents make the most of the warmer months.
When it’s time to get down to business, Appleton residents are poised for success. The Fox Cities have a long tradition of papermaking and printing, and other key industries include food processing and heavy-transport manufacturing for the military, aerospace and emergency services.
Appleton combines access to top-tier entertainment, restaurants and breweries with the quaint charm of a small town. The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center entertains residents with a roster of Broadway productions, concerts and workshops. The Trout Museum of Art features a diverse collection of art across its three floors of galleries. And not to be missed is the History Museum at the Castle, where you can discover fun facts about Appleton’s famed resident, Harry Houdini.
17. Omaha, Nebraska
Oh boy, life isn’t much better than living in Omaha, NE! Situated on the Missouri River, Omaha is ideal for families seeking excellent schools and quality health care, as well as for young professionals who value a low cost of living, a strong economy and ample job opportunities. Approximately 45,000 companies, including many Fortune 500 and Fortune 100 companies, are based here.
As one of the best places to live, Omaha is at the forefront of its health care sector, boasting the well-respected University of Nebraska Medical Center and companies specializing in medical technology. In addition, there are both startups and established firms in the financial services, agribusiness and defense sectors. New to town? The Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce’s Ask a Local program connects new residents or those looking to relocate with locals to provide them with insider information and help them get plugged in.
Three parks connect in the popular RiverFront area, combining exciting places to gather and play with walking trails, a skating area, an amphitheater, community programming and a whole lot more. Another cool attraction is the Kiewit Luminarium, which wows guests with its state-of-the-art focus on science, art and human perception. And, not to be forgotten, one of the best zoos in the world (!) has been part of life in Omaha since 1995.
Just over 486,000 people call Omaha home, and residents can enjoy the city’s connectivity – its central location provides easy access to move about the rest of the country. The city also boasts an innovative culinary scene, vibrant live music venues, hip craft breweries, a full calendar of events and an authenticity that stays true to Omaha’s Midwestern roots.
18. Madison, Wisconsin
Residents discover a wealth of Midwest magic in Madison, WI, from Frank Lloyd Wright architecture to over 200 miles of hiking and biking trails, to a burgeoning craft beer scene and an established circuit of squeaky cheese curds.
Moving to Madison means enjoying the amenities of a college town and the energy of a capital city. Madison is located on an isthmus between lakes Mendota and Monona, and the 279,000 residents here have access to 15,000 acres of lakes, which means there are endless ways to enjoy the outdoors – you can paddle, swim and sail to your heart’s content. Madison is also a walkable and bike-friendly city, and, as home to the University of Wisconsin, it has a pervasive youthful buzz. Fun fact: A student prank involving plastic lawn birds is how the pink flamingo became the city’s official bird.
Other draws to the city? The Dane County Farmers’ Market brings locals and tourists together on “the Square” to shop for everything from aged cheddar and sourdough loaves to flower bouquets and farm-fresh eggs. Another thing that makes Madison unique is the abundance of free fun available here, with admission-free attractions perfect for broke college students or young families looking to entertain their children. Take a walk on the wild side at the Henry Vilas Zoo, or stretch your legs and admire the beauty at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. And don’t miss the delicious cheese curds!
When it comes to business, Madison has a diverse and resilient economy. In fact, business is booming in Madison, with leading national companies such as Trek Bicycle, American Girl and John Deere having offices here. As a result, entrepreneurs have a vast support network to help them launch successful startups.
19. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Residents can enjoy the good life when living in Minneapolis, MN, where they have easy access to lakes and museums, plus professional sports teams to root for and a nearby mall so big it has its own area code. (The Mall of America is 5.6 million square feet, giving new meaning to the phrase “shop ’til you drop!”). With its numerous amenities, including a thriving arts and culture scene and cosmopolitan restaurants, Minneapolis is a great place to live.
Minnesota invests heavily in its arts, and Minneapolis is a testament to that commitment, with art museums, galleries and colorful outdoor murals throughout the city. That creative connection is evident throughout the city, as reflected in the high number of theater seats per capita, which underscores the city’s vibrant performing arts community. Minneapolis is also home to one of the country’s first-ever sculpture gardens (and it’s free!).
With more than 430,000 residents, Minneapolis is a major metro. However, groups like “In Sisterhood, We Brunch,” which uplifts Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) women, help create a sense of community among residents. Minneapolis is renowned for its welcoming attitude towards immigrants and refugees, and the city’s diverse cultural landscape is reflected in its vibrant culinary scene. Get a good taste of foods from around the world at Midtown Global Market, where you’ll find street foods from India and Nepal, flavors from Morocco, arepas, sushi and the Indigenous Food Lab, which focuses on education and food.
Minnesota also prioritizes health care, and Twin Cities hospitals are highly rated. More than 750 health and life science companies are in the region.
Ready to move to the Twin Cities? Consider a Jucy Lucy burger, summer lake days and biking along the Midtown Greenway as rites of passage for new residents.
20. Columbia, Missouri
The progressive city of Columbia, MO, has a rich history and vibrant future. With tons of entertainment options, a diverse economy and a low cost of living, it’s no wonder that the 128,804 who call COMO home love living in Columbia.
Home to the University of Missouri, Columbia also earns high marks as one of the nation’s top college towns. From the Botanic Garden and Museum of Art and Archaeology to the Francis Quadrangle and Mizzou Sports Park, the university is home to landmark architecture, cultural offerings and elite SEC sports. The university is also an economic engine, helping drive the city’s health care, research and high-tech industries.
Downtown, The District is an urban neighborhood spanning 50 square blocks and home to more than 600 businesses, including some of the city’s most popular restaurants and nightlife. And the 9-mile MKT Nature and Fitness Trail is one of the top-ranked urban trails in the country. Columbia, which celebrated its bicentennial in 2021, is also home to seven historic districts, several of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
21. Davenport, Iowa
Located in the heart of the Midwest along the banks of the Mississippi River, Davenport, IA, is part of the dynamic bi-state Quad Cities region. Those living in Davenport enjoy short commutes, a lower cost of living and award-winning health care systems. Davenport and the surrounding cities have great museums, hundreds of miles of trails for walking and biking, and a fun food scene that includes craft breweries and food trucks. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the opportunities to kayak and paddleboard along the Mississippi River water trails in the summer, and to sled, ice skate, and snowshoe when winter rolls around.
Inclusivity is also at the forefront here, from a city-wide office of Talent & Inclusion to an Enabling Garden that’s accessible and features plants and flowers that stimulate all the senses. The city also has several adaptive and inclusive programs to provide recreation opportunities for residents of all abilities. Residents of all ages enjoy living in this tight-knit city, which emphasizes community.
People moving to Davenport have options for finding their perfect neighborhood. For young families, the city’s top-notch school system and welcoming people make it easy to establish deep, rich connections within the community. Davenport’s 102,360 residents also love festivals and gatherings like Icetravaganza, which features illuminated ice sculptures in winter, and Alternating Currents, a bi-state, multi-city festival that showcases over 200 performances across 30 venues, offering a variety of music, comedy, film and visual arts.
When it comes to work, Davenport is home to John Deere’s headquarters and boasts a resilient economy built on agricultural innovation. The area is also attracting remote workers and entrepreneurs. Other top industries here include advanced metals and materials, supported by local foundries, as well as defense and logistics.
22. Wichita, Kansas
Wichita, KS, is a fantastic place for recent college graduates, young professionals and growing families to put down roots and advance their careers – all while enjoying fun-filled weekends with friends and neighbors in this tight-knit community. Not only is the rental market affordable, but median home prices around the $200,000 mark mean that first-time buyers moving to Wichita can enter a housing market where costs are significantly below the national average. This well-planned city of 405,335 people offers endless ways to have fun, ranging from the city’s 120 parks to its treasure trove of museums, great shopping districts, disc golf courses, fishing holes, pools, waterparks and splash pads.
Getting around Wichita is a breeze, and the city’s efficient transportation system is one of the many reasons it ranks among the best places to live. Residents have easy access to major highways, and within the city, they can ride the Q-Line bus to popular districts for free. For outdoor enthusiasts, Wichita offers 100 miles of hiking and biking trails to explore, and the Bike Share ICT program features more than 200 bicycles at 40 stations throughout Wichita. For frequent travelers, Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport offers nonstop flights to 11 cities, with additional seasonal routes during peak vacation periods.
Wichita’s central location and access to major interstate routes and rail lines have made it a hub for companies such as Caterpillar, Cargill and Deloitte. Industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, health care, aerospace and energy are all thriving, contributing to the city’s dynamic economy.
The city’s diverse food scene comprises 1,200 restaurants, offering a wide array of international cuisines, as well as classic favorites like burgers and barbecue. Additionally, it features a thriving craft beer scene and artisan coffee shops that make for great gathering spots.
23. Champaign, Illinois
Locals have a lot to love about living in Champaign, IL, including the fact that every household is within walking distance of a park or open space, commute times are short and a well-designed transit system makes getting around town easy.
Top-notch schools also make Champaign an excellent place for young professionals and families, as the area is home to the state’s flagship university, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, as well as Parkland College. Residents reap all the built-in benefits of living in a college town, with sports teams to cheer for and affordable access to theater events, museums, gardens and, at Parkland College, an out-of-this-world planetarium.
Champaign is a friendly, innovative Midwestern city with a strong economy and a lot of vibrant energy from its students. More than 89,000 people call Champaign home thanks to its continued affordability and family-friendly atmosphere. The city boasts a high employment rate for graduates and a thriving startup and entrepreneurial culture, fueled by its tight-knit community.
Diversity is also prized in Champaign, which is considered a Midwest melting pot. In fact, Champaign has the second-largest international population in the country. That diversity is evident throughout the city and has cultivated a community home to numerous international grocers, ethnic eateries, multicultural media outlets, and more. The Champaign County African American Heritage Trail shares powerful stories of residents who have shaped the community, and the University of Illinois welcomes and celebrates more than 11,000 international students each year, one of the country’s largest international student and scholar populations.
24. Peoria, Illinois
The Midwestern town of Peoria, IL, situated along the Illinois River, attracts those seeking a thriving economy, affordable housing (the median home price is $151,000), and a low cost of living. But living in Peoria doesn’t mean sacrificing quality of life. Peoria is a manufacturing hub that supports strong sectors such as health care, manufacturing and education. Bradley University enrolls approximately 5,400 students in over 100 undergraduate programs and more than 30 graduate programs across five colleges.
Large companies, such as Caterpillar, Inc., OSF HealthCare and Peoria Public Schools, have established a presence here. However, so have startups in a diverse array of industries, with both networking opportunities and coworking spaces fueling their growth. In fact, some delicious distilleries are coming online that follow in the footsteps of Peoria’s storied past as a large producer of whiskey at an earlier time.
The city, with a population of nearly 113,000, is also known for its wealth of amenities. Those include the Peoria Zoo, the Peoria Riverfront Museum, which includes the Peoria Holocaust Memorial and the Peoria Civic Center, which hosts sporting events and concerts. In addition, Peoria is home to one of the oldest orchestras in the country. The strong sense of community – with an undeniable dose of friendliness – extends to the numerous community events and activities that take place here.
25. Green Bay, Wisconsin
You know Green Bay, WI, for Packers football and squeaky cheese curds. However, this beautiful city of 106,583 residents is also renowned for fostering strong community bonds and offering residents an exceptionally high quality of life. This family-friendly Midwest city has many surprises in store, including great beer, a bustling riverfront boardwalk along the Fox River and a must-visit botanic garden. Friendly neighborhoods and annual festivals unite people from all over the city to celebrate everything from nationally recognized holidays to local traditions, like the Packers players riding children’s bikes to training camp.
As far as jobs are concerned, the Green Bay economy thrives with employment opportunities in industries such as manufacturing, health care and education. Schneider, Bellin Health and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay are among the many key players in the local market. Housing prices in Green Bay are significantly below the national average (nearly 20%), and the city boasts one of the largest school districts in the state. The trifecta of employment, education and entertainment all contribute to Green Bay’s excellent quality of life, understandably.