Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Northeast
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The Northeastern pocket of the United States boasts a shockingly impressive diversity in food, culture, and landscape. From the iconic fisheries of Maine and farmlands of Pennsylvania to the City That Never Sleeps, the Northeast is full of attractions, amenities and aesthetics that draw people in from all around the world. About 85 percent of the region’s residents live in urban settings, but you can also find beautiful countryside, peaceful beach communities and plenty of suburbs. Here are the 25 best places to live in the Northeast.
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1. Clifton, New Jersey
As a suburb of New York City, Clifton, NJ, of course, attracts residents who commute to the Big Apple. However, the city of nearly 90,000 has its own noteworthy amenities. Those include 39 parks with all kinds of courts, fields and playgrounds — even bocce ball and shuffleboard courts.
Clifton has also secured a spot as one of the best cities in the Northeast for its educational offerings. Several top-notch schools, both public and private, make it an excellent place for families to put down roots. Furthermore, the city hosts various annual events and festivals that parents and kids love. The city is diverse, too, so everyone feels welcome.
The arts and culture scene is alive in Clifton, with the Clifton Arts Center offering art exhibits and outreach programs and the historic Hamilton House Museum providing a glimpse of the past. Then, there’s the legendary Brighton Asylum, a haunted asylum complex that has gained national notoriety — so beware! In addition, Clifton’s economy is healthy, with manufacturing, health care and retail being the most prominent industries. Fans of “The Sopranos” know that Clifton was used as a filming location, but its crime rates are well below the national average. In other words, it is a safe place to live, work and play.
2. Warwick, Rhode Island
With 39 miles of gorgeous coastline, lovely lighthouses and beautiful beaches — yes, beaches! — it’s a no-brainer why Warwick, RI, is one of the best places to live in the Northeast. And that picturesque scenery is just part of the reason.
Located about 12 miles from downtown Providence, Warwick offers numerous amenities for residents. Safe neighborhoods and highly ranked schools top the list, but there’s also a keen sense of history and easy access to bigger cities along the East Coast. In addition, Warwick is within a 75-mile radius of two-thirds of New England’s population, making it an attractive place for companies to set up headquarters. Speaking of history, Warwick is known as the site where one of America’s first acts of rebellion — the burning of the HMS Gaspee, known as the Gaspee Affair — took place against the British government during the lead-up to the Revolution.
Situated along the shores of Narragansett Bay, Warwick comprises 30 unique villages. Its 83,000 residents are community activists engaged in issues that steer the direction of the city, the second-largest in the Ocean State. Amenities include green spaces like Warwick City Park and Conimicut Point Park and arts and culture venues like the Warwick Center for the Arts and The Gamm Theatre. There’s also a dynamic dining scene, with coffee shops, bars and restaurants to satisfy your cravings.
3. Lowell, Massachusetts
Lowell, MA, was established entirely to produce textiles during the Industrial Revolution, and at its peak, there were 20 mills in operation in 1836. However, once the industry shifted, the city was forced to reckon with its economic future. Today, Lowell is one of the best places to live in the Northeast because of its ability to weave its industrial history into modern amenities. A perfect example is Lowell National Historic Park, a trail system where visitors can meander along the canal waterways. Old mills have also been refurbished into modern apartments at the center of all the action in town.
In addition to the abundant history on every corner, Lowell has numerous museums, like the New England Quilt Museum, the Whistler House Museum of Art and the Boott Cotton Mills Museum. Adding to the rich culture of Lowell are two higher education institutions — UMass Lowell and Middlesex Community College, which has part of its campus in Lowell.
4. Cranston, Rhode Island
Cranston, RI, is conveniently located and has easy commute times to Providence, Warwick and Newport. It is known for its strong business climate, tree-lined streets and plenty of places to get outside and play. Another reason it earned a spot as one of the best cities in the Northeast is Cranston’s highly regarded public school district with 15 elementary schools, four middle schools and four high schools, in addition to an early childhood center.
Bring your wallets for open-air shopping at the Garden City Center, which brings commerce and community together with brand-name stores and fun events. Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in Cranston’s many parks and trails, as well as youth sports and playgrounds.
Residents can choose from several neighborhoods, including Edgewood, with its Victorian-era homes and the Edgewood Yacht Club. Speaking of Victoria-era, Cranston is full of history, with many of its architectural past still in view. In fact, the headquarters for the Cranston Historical Society is housed in the Governor Sprague Mansion, which was once the residence of the prominent Sprague family and the birthplace of two Rhode Island governors. Pawtuxet Village, a lovely historic waterside area, is one of the oldest communities in New England and is now home to fun eateries and eclectic shops.
5. Newark, New Jersey
Newark, NJ, is considered one of the country’s oldest cities, which makes sense when you learn that it was settled by Puritans from Connecticut way back in 1666. The community steadily grew, earning township status in 1693, the formal title of city in 1836 and the title of one of the best places to live in the Northeast. Throughout its history, Newark served as a place for religious freedom and a multicultural haven. You can still see evidence of its rich history and storied past in its architecture. Still, the city’s true gems lie in the multitude of churches that have played pivotal roles in shaping the community’s identity. At last count, there were a whopping 401 of them, which is seriously impressive considering that around 318,000 people live in the city!
Locals have a laundry list of reasons they like living in Newark, but one of the most common accolades you might hear is how attractive the cost of living is here compared to nearby metropolitan areas like New York City. You’ll find everything from historic brownstones and modern apartments to contemporary townhomes and spacious suburban lots. Compared to surrounding areas, the cost of living makes Newark an appealing choice for first-time homebuyers and young families in the early days of building their careers.
You won’t spend a lot of time twiddling your thumbs in Newark. There are plenty of activities to keep you adventuring and exploring all year long. Touring the expansive art collections in the Newark Museum of Art, eating your way through Portuguese, Spanish and Brazilian cuisine in the Ironbound District, or delving deep into the historic architecture of the city (we’re looking at you, Newark Public Library) are excellent ways to pass the time. You can’t miss out on iconic events like the Cherry Blossom Festival in Branch Brook Park, complete with live music, crafts, cultural demonstrations and competitive races, or spending lazy summer days paddling along the Passaic River. From singles and families to young professionals and retirees, there’s something for everyone to discover in Newark.
6. Cheektowaga, New York
Cheektowaga, NY, is garnering attention as one of the best places to live in the U.S. and for good reason. With a population of 76,482, this second-largest suburb of Buffalo, NY, offers one of the most accessible locations in the region. Cheektowaga is just a short commute into downtown Buffalo and a 20-minute drive to Niagara Falls. Additionally, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport is in Cheektowaga, so extended travel is also easy. Sports fans are also in luck, as Cheektowaga is just a quick drive to the Buffalo Bills’ Highmark Stadium and the Buffalo Sabres’ KeyBank Center!
What makes Cheektowaga such a livable city lies much more at the heart of this town. The people here are less focused on hip eateries (although there’s lots to eat!) and more on getting to know their neighbors and caring for one another. Cheektowaga is built on hardworking, blue-collar roots and offers a classically friendly suburb with affordable homes that make the sweet life accessible to most. Cheektowaga is the kind of place where everyone has a favorite church fish fry or neighborhood pizza joint (Gandy’s and Macy’s Pizzaria are favorites). Known for its large Polish-American community, they also have homemade, authentic Eastern European offerings like the kielbasa at Polish Villa.
There’s always lots to do as well. This community embraces the snowy winters with activities like ice skating in Cheektowaga Town Park and bowling leagues. When winter thaws, Cheektowaga offers a gorgeous park system with loads of outdoor fields and courts, trails and recreational programming. Summer is filled with the always popular church and community festivals. In addition, families should take advantage of the very active Cheektowaga Youth and Recreational Services, which offer amazing and affordable summer camps.
7. Nashua, New Hampshire
Nashua, NH, located in the southern part of New Hampshire, offers plenty to keep young professionals and families happy and easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, metro areas like Boston and the regional airport in Manchester. Plus, the city is at the confluence of the Merrimack and Nashua rivers, providing outstanding walking and biking trails where residents and visitors alike can enjoy some of the exceptional scenery in and around the city.
Nashua is among the best cities in the Northeast list for plenty of other reasons, including safety, education and health, in addition to an array of jobs in those fields, as well as manufacturing, information services, retail and defense. Housing options in this midsize city range from adorable apartments, townhouses and condos to multiple-bedroom dwellings, with an average home value of about $396,000.
The town is all about the arts, with public art installations, a fine arts gallery, live music and theater productions, a symphony and even more at the Nashua Center for the Arts and the annual International Sculpture Symposium. And, due to the six nearby college campuses, residents can find all kinds of events and festivals to keep things lively and fun. Adding to that wealth of creativity is a dazzling array of dining spots.
8. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, PA, is known far and wide for its history in the U.S. steel industry. This city of 310,519 still has that strong foundation in manufacturing but has built upon that history to now include cybersecurity, robotics, clean tech and AI. Innovation comes naturally to Pittsburgh. It’s the birthplace of the first cable suspension bridge, the Ferris wheel and the ever-important polio vaccine. And the Pittsburgh International Airport is the first in the world to be powered entirely by natural gas and solar energy — pretty impressive!
Pittsburgh is one of the top cities in the Northeast, providing more than 90 distinct neighborhoods to call home, ranging from those near universities (think Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh) to some close to a historic park. Plus, getting around is easy. Nearly 450 bridges connect different areas of the city, which is why it’s been dubbed the “City of Bridges.”
Pittsburgh connects residents in other ways, too. The hometown pride here is palatable, felt at area universities and major league sporting events and through the community events that occur all year. In addition, the Pittsburgh area contains rivers and valleys and lots of green space, so it’s a cinch to get out and about and enjoy the scenic landscapes.
9. Jersey City, New Jersey
Yes, Jersey City, NJ, offers unparalleled views of the waterfront and the Manhattan skyline, but it has a distinct character all its own. As the oldest city in the Garden State and one of the best places to live in the Northeast, Jersey City attracts residents for its history, culture, charming neighborhoods and plentiful places to play.
The city is known for its business-friendly culture, with finance (nicknamed “Wall Street West”), banking, shipping and logistics, packaging and health care being some of the leading industries. This city of 303,000-plus continues to entice new residents with its many amenities. Those include eclectic restaurants, independent coffee shops, fun nightlife options and plenty of attractions. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are only a short ferry ride away. Liberty State Park has 1,200 acres of gardens and walking paths, and it is one of some 60 city parks that bring residents outdoors. Plus, the recently updated Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza is a delight, with restaurants, shops, community events and places to just hang with friends and neighbors. This waterfront city is surrounded by the Hudson and Hackensack Rivers, with plenty to see and explore.
10. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
With a name like Bethlehem, PA, it’s hard not to think of Christmas, so why not celebrate the holiday in a big way? The city embraces the season with an 81-foot-tall steel “Star of Bethlehem,” sparkly trees and a German-style Christkindlmarkt Market. But, it earns a spot as one of the top spots to live in the Northeast for many other reasons, too. Chief among them is affordable housing and a robust economy.
The city’s nearly 80,000 residents are proud of Bethlehem’s innovative culture. After all, the Moravians who settled here were inventors, building the first public water system in the American Colonies in 1754. Today, Bethlehem’s strong community spirit carries over into the strong business community and the top-notch educational system. Bethlehem has excellent public and private schools and 11 colleges in the Lehigh Valley that turn out a highly educated workforce. Manufacturing is in this city’s DNA (think the steel industry), and companies here make everything from Mack Trucks to marshmallow Peeps. Other flourishing sectors include health care, business services, and transportation and logistics.
A location just 90 minutes west of New York City and an hour north of Philadelphia is also a boon for Bethlehem. Still, there’s no need to venture far from home since the city offers all kinds of arts and culture, nightlife, creative dining spots, historical sites and more. SteelStacks, for example, brings people together for all types of events and festivals the whole family can enjoy.
11. Danbury, Connecticut
Nestled among the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, Danbury, CT, offers residents a cozy New England vibe while providing all the amenities associated with a major city. Danbury’s location along the state line of New York makes it easy to head to the Big Apple if you want a quick getaway.
Danbury’s 86,000 residents have all they need right at home, though, including all kinds of dining, shopping and entertainment options, as well as plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. As one of the best cities to live in the Northeast, Danbury is the perfect place for families with unparalleled quality of life, excellent health care facilities and a high safety ranking.
City parks, lakes and trails entice people outdoors. The Ives Trail Greenway, for example, connects to Wooster Mountain State Park, Tarrywile Park and Wiedel Meadows. Furthermore, there are lakes, fields, adventure parks, golf, ice skating and more to keep the kiddos (and adults) entertained. And speaking of entertainment, you can catch a show at the Palace Danbury Theatre or see a performance under the stars at Musicals at Richter. Today, “Hat City” city wears many hats — as a close-knit community, a suburb and so much more.
12. Fall River, Massachusetts
The waterfront community of Fall River, MA, is New England at its finest. The city of nearly 95,000 is culturally diverse, combining Old World charm with a modern urban atmosphere. It ranks as one of the best places to live in the Northeast due to its many amenities, affordability and sense of history (it was one the largest centers in the country for cotton textile production and manufacturing).
The city’s famous trial of Lizzie Borden, who was acquitted of the murder of her father and stepmother still fascinates, and you can stay – if you dare – at the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast Museum to learn more about this interesting case. Fall River is an immigration hub for the Portuguese, having the largest population percentage-wise in the country. That culture can be seen (and tasted!) in the numerous Portuguese restaurants and fun festivals held here.
Besides the exciting history and culture, education ranks high for Fall River, with easy access to schools such as Bristol Community College and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. Situated on the Taunton River, Fall River provides opportunities to explore nearby state parks and wildlife areas and to dig your toes in the sand at area beaches. And if you are a history buff, the city is home to the world’s most extensive collection of World War II naval vessels, including the battleship USS Massachusetts.
13. Manchester, New Hampshire
Nestled along the banks of the Merrimack River, Manchester, NH, is thoroughly modern with a nod to its storied history as a significant industrial and economic hub in New England. Textile mills used to dominate the area, but the city is now home to diverse industries such as technology, health care, communications and manufacturing. As one of the best cities in the Northeast, Manchester also draws residents for its excellent educational system. A dozen or so colleges and universities offer all kinds of career paths for students, which feeds into the city’s strong economy.
Manchester entertains residents with artsy venues like The Palace Theatre and the Currier Museum of Art, showcasing works from many European and American masters. Historical landmarks dot the landscape with an interesting collection of homes, churches and memorials that attract residents and visitors alike. The Millyard Museum, which opened in one of the renovated mill buildings of the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, offers rotating exhibits and educational programs about Manchester’s early textile industry. Manchester is the state’s “Queen City,” with residents coming together for sporting events and concerts or to enjoy a night out on the town, which often includes a trendy dining spot or a craft brewery.
14. Lynn, Massachusetts
Life is good in Lynn, MA! Frederick Law Olmsted, the famous designer behind New York’s Central Park and Boston’s Emerald Necklace, was also the mastermind behind the creation of the Lynn Woods Reservation in Lynn. This community gem is 2,200 acres and crisscrossed with 30 miles of trails for nature walks, cross-country skiing, running, mountain biking and more. There’s also an underground tunnel with pirate lore and a few reservoirs that look like ponds, which help set the scene in the outdoor space, the second-largest municipal park in the entire country!
Amenities like the Lynn Woods Reservation and beaches and landmarks combine to make Lynn one of the best places to hang your hat in the Northeast. And, as a suburb of Boston, Lynn also has a spectacular arts and culture scene and an energetic and inclusive cultural hub. Colorful murals turn the downtown into an open-air art gallery, and there are co-working and gallery spaces in the cultural district. Lynn also celebrates its diversity and cultivates community with gatherings like the Khmer Cambodian New Year.
15. Worcester, Massachusetts
There’s a lot to love about Worcester, MA. As the “Heart of the Commonwealth,” this city of approximately 208,439 people brings a sense of commitment to all it offers. That starts with being a quintessential college town with eight higher education institutions. Those range from College of the Holy Cross and Clark University to UMass Medical School and Worcester State University, with a student population of 35,000!
There are plenty of career opportunities to keep them there, too, including those in advanced manufacturing, robotics, biotech, computer sciences and health care. Worcester is known as an innovative city — both the rocket and birth control pill were invented here. Furthermore, Worcester’s slew of amenities also entices, with attractions such as the Worcester Art Museum, Mechanics Hall (a premiere concert venue), more than 60 parks and four minor-league sports teams. So, it’s no surprise that Worcester is one of the best places to live in the Northeast.
The culinary scene is expanding, with neighborhoods like Shrewsbury Street, The Canal District and Park Avenue offering a delectable array of eateries and coffee shops. Having a heart for art is also part of Worcester’s DNA, with striking public murals, art galleries (check out the ones at area universities), and museums that highlight history and regional art and crafts.
16. New Haven, Connecticut
New Haven, CT, is known across the country as the home of Yale University. But there’s more to this beautiful city than its history of bright and influential young minds. Locals adore New Haven for its thriving music scene, spectacular pizza and world-class healthcare. Because the population hovers right around 139,000, the city is often called “right-sized.” Quality food, live music and art co-exist within a walkable downtown. Still, the smaller population means less of the usual city hassles, like excess traffic and a sky-high cost of living, making it one of the top cities in the Northeast.
You can’t live in New Haven without cultivating an appreciation for Yale University, one of the top schools in the region and the entire nation. This idyllic campus is full of ivy-covered buildings and neo-gothic architecture. You can find ample restaurants, theater performances, sporting events and music shows within walking distance of the university that students, staff and residents alike seem to enjoy.
Residents can also thank the university for the growing eclectic food scene in the area. From the famous New Haven-style pizza to the beloved Cheese Truck grilled cheese sandwich, you can find a little bit of everything (at every price point) within a few blocks of the city center. Once you’ve stuffed yourself to satisfaction, you can easily spend the day perusing various curious places, such as the Yale University Art Gallery (the oldest college art museum in the country), Shubert Theater or Woolsey Hall.
17. Paterson, New Jersey
Nestled in the northeastern part of the state, Paterson, NJ, is a comfortable city suburb that places you as close as possible to New York without requiring you to pay New York prices. Locals often refer to it as “Silk City,” thanks to its significant role in silk production throughout the latter half of the 19th century. Today it’s probably more commonly associated as the birthplace of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a popular middleweight boxer.
Because it’s only about 20 miles to New York City, Paterson is often considered a suburb of both New York and New Jersey. It’s served by NJ Transit, which includes commuter rail, bus routes and interstate bus routes, all of which make for an easy commute to and from the Big Apple. It’s location and public transportation options make it a great option for anyone looking to build a career in the city without breaking the bank.
The draw of city lights is unmistakable among Paterson residents, but that doesn’t mean you will have a hard time finding things to do outside your own doorstep. In addition to popular shopping centers and local eateries, you can spend your days exploring locations like Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, Paterson Museum, Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and Lambert Castle. If you need a bite to eat after hoofing it around the city, enjoy dinner like a variety of the local hot spots.
18. Albany, New York
The growing tech scene and entrepreneurial spirit in Albany, NY, make it one of the best places in the Northeast. The city is conveniently located just three hours from New York City and Boston and has long been known as a hub for art, culture and history (the city is more than 400 years old!). In addition, thanks to its proximity to major markets, Albany has become a hotbed for health tech, biotech and information technology talent. The growing number of startups has created various job opportunities for young professionals in the tech field. At the same time, established companies like IBM and General Electric have offices in the greater Albany area. Albany is also one of the more affordable cities in the Northeast, making it an attractive option for those just starting their careers.
Albany offers a wide range of outdoor recreation options for nature lovers. The city is located near the Adirondack Mountains and the Hudson River Valley, which offer hiking, skiing and kayaking. In addition, numerous cultural events and festivals are held throughout the city, such as the Tulip Festival, where more than 100,000 tulips bloom, and residents come together to celebrate Albany’s Dutch heritage. Albany’s mix of affordability, location and recreation make it a unique and fascinating city to call home.
19. Rochester, New York
Rochester, NY, ranks as the third largest city in New York State, but locals will be quick to assure you that the community is remarkably close-knit. The sense of deep roots and genuine community attract a number of newcomers and inspire those who were born in the city to remain and raise their own families in the same place. Paired with its affordability, thriving job market, and host of appealing amenities such as food and entertainment, it’s no wonder “Rochesterians” are pleased as punch to call this community their own.
In addition to being home to large employers such as University of Rochester, Wegmans Food Markets, Inc., and Rochester General Health System, the city offers a central downtown bursting with amazing restaurants and numerous craft breweries and wine bars. In fact, Rochester was named the “best city for beer in the northeast” and has more than two dozen local breweries with enough craft beers to keep you busy for quite some time.
As far as outdoor recreation is concerned, wintertime offers you ample opportunity to bundle up and hit the slopes for a little skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. The warmer months often find residents lingering around the city to enjoy the multitude of outdoor festivals that often grace the events calendar each and every week. If that’s not enough, you can also fill your time with baseball games at Frontier Field or afternoons out on the water at Lake Ontario.
20. Allentown, Pennsylvania
Living in Allentown, PA, affords you a delightfully low cost of living compared to the national average, a slew of family-friendly events and activities, a reliable transportation system, and a bustling sports scene. Given the city’s establishment in 1762, you can enjoy life in the fastest growing city in the state of Pennsylvania without sacrificing the rich local history that comes with living in such a notable town. History buffs will want to frequent the city’s numerous museums to discover and unpack its role in not only state, but national, history. Be sure to pencil in time to explore the Liberty Bell Museum, where you’ll learn all about the time the renowned Liberty Bell was secretly taken to Allentown to prevent it from being captured by British troops. You can also pop into the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum, which has a phenomenal collection of local papers, items and upwards of 80,000 photographs recounting the story of the community and its residents throughout history.
In addition to its close proximity to Reading, Philadelphia, and New York City, and quality public transportation to get you there, Allentown has a reputation for its love for sport. From Lehigh Valley IronPigs baseball games at Coca-Cola Stadium to indoor football games with the Lehigh Valley Steelhawks, this is definitely one of those places where you’ll overhear conversations about the week’s games wherever you go.
Interested in art and food? Enroll in a painting or pottery class at the Baum School of Art or peruse the 13,000 pieces at Allentown Art Museum before getting a bite to eat at one of the many unique downtown restaurants. Whether you choose to indulge in a little ethnic cuisine, classic American burgers or shareable plates, you’re sure to find a variety of options to satisfy your cravings.
21. Buffalo, New York
Does being the birthplace of the Buffalo wing make Buffalo, NY, one of the best places to live in the Northeast? While some sports fans may say yes, Buffalo natives know it’s the high quality of life, cultural amenities, outdoor recreation and vibrant culinary scene that really set the city apart. Located right on the United States-Canada border, Buffalo has long been an access point for anyone looking to visit our friendly neighbors to the north or experience the awe-inspiring majesty of Niagara Falls. In addition, the city’s geographic location means it’s ripe with opportunities for job-seekers: not only is it near the Canadian border, but it’s also within 500 miles of 40 percent of the U.S. population.
There’s no getting around Buffalo’s rough winter weather, but the city absolutely comes alive in the summer. Buffalo earns high marks when it comes to amenities thanks to the city’s abundance of parks, museums and concerts, plus a food scene that offers something for everyone. Buffalo is also home to several professional sports teams, such as the Buffalo Bills of the NFL and the Buffalo Sabres of the NHL. In addition, Buffalo has experienced an influx of young people in recent years for a variety of reasons, including its affordability, and the city has a relatively low cost of living compared to other northeastern cities, with affordable housing and lower taxes, making it a very attractive place for newcomers.
22. Syracuse, New York
Spend the day exploring Syracuse, NY, and you just might find yourself looking through the real estate listings. No one would blame you. This central New York city is surprisingly affordable considering its reputation as the education and healthcare hub of the area, its proximity to the Finger Lakes Region and its laundry list of extravagant events and activities that keep locals busy all year long.
Because the city is home to Syracuse University and various other research companies, many locals work in the education and healthcare industries. But don’t let that color your assumption of the area’s vibe. Warm, friendly and eager to drink up everything life offers, this city is home to various concerts, comedy shows, local shops, mouthwatering restaurants and outdoor amenities.
Syracuse is a great spot to call home for those keen on enjoying all four seasons. The Finger Lakes is a hot spot all year, featuring 11 beautiful lakes and a surprising number of wine trails, breweries and distilleries. Syracuse is also rich in outdoor adventure, from hiking and biking trails to golf courses and waterfalls. Families with young children enjoy spending their weekends at the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology and the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. In short, there’s more than enough to do for children and adults of all ages.
23. Scranton, Pennsylvania
Besides its fame from the hit television comedy The Office, Scranton, PA, provides residents with a charming sense of community amidst a diversity of restaurants, coffee shops and parks. The cost of living hovers below the national average, making it appealing to young adults just starting out in their careers as well as families wanting to keep their housing costs low.
Scranton may be a smaller town in Pennsylvania, but it has definitely made its mark. The city invented the electric-operated trolley system in the late 1800s, which earned it the nickname “Electric City.” While the system no longer runs, the city is regularly taking steps towards invigorating historic downtown and providing residents and tourists alike with opportunities to learn more about the area. From weekends at Montage Mountain Ski Resort or the Electric City Trolley Museum to leisurely afternoons perusing local gems like St. Anne’s Basilica, you can always find something to whet your palate.
Speaking of palates, the food won’t disappoint. Cooper’s Seafood, an often frequented pirate ship restaurant, is a beloved local treasure, as well as the city’s oldest restaurant, Coney Island Lunch, which is arguably the best spot to get a classic American hot dog. And when you’re ready for a little sports action, you can easily spend an evening at Mohegan Sun Arena for an exciting Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins game to shake off the cold of Pennsylvania winters.
24. Erie, Pennsylvania
Ranking on multiple lists as one of the best places to live, Erie, PA, is known for its access to the Great Lakes, a significant draw for outdoor enthusiasts, and its vibrant nightlife. The combination of nature and entertainment has drawn in a variety of newcomers, including young professionals who are eager to enjoy life in a city rich with arts and culture, as well as a cost of living that clocks in below the national average.
Erie’s young residents appreciate the city’s proximity to larger cities, such as Buffalo, Cleveland and Pittsburgh. But the scenic waterfront, entertainment and activities, and ease of getting outside in all seasons makes this an appealing place to be in and of itself. Spend the warm months lounging on the sandy beaches, enjoying a weekend on the water courtesy of Erie Maritime Museum, or kicking back with friends for a little live music. When the cold weather starts to creep in, you’ll have ample opportunity to meet up with your buddies for numerous festivals or dinners at places like Bay House Oyster Bar or Oliver’s Restaurant. As far as entertainment is concerned, you have a lot of options here. Presque Isle Downs and Casino offers Thoroughbred racing alongside its in-house restaurant, Churchill’s Bourbon & Brew. Erie Playhouse, the 12th oldest community theater in the country, has a calendar packed with performances all year long. Fans of history will adore the Erie Maritime Museum and Hagen History Center. And if all that isn’t enough, you could easily create your own weekend itinerary touring the countless vineyards that call this county home.
25. Bridgeport, Connecticut
Located just 60 miles from Manhattan, Bridgeport, CT, is the largest city in Connecticut and is often considered a convenient home base for young adults building their careers in New York City. Compared to the Big Apple and the rest of Connecticut, Bridgeport combines a lower cost of living with a quality of life that appeals to young professionals and growing families. Neighborhood diversity means you can easily choose a location based on price, amenities and proximity to New York.
Whether you need a place to live while you commute in and out of the city or simply want to enjoy a lifestyle rich in scenic views and fun-filled activities, Bridgeport has much to offer and is one of the top cities in the Northeast. St. Mary’s-by-the-Sea is an idyllic park primed for birdwatching and stunning Long Island Sound and Black Rock Harbor views. Families often frequent Beardsley Zoo, the only AZA-accredited zoo in the state. You can also spend a cool autumn morning exploring Black Rock Harbor Light, a centuries-old lighthouse that began operating in 1808. If you need an indoor activity or two, consider the Barnum Museum, where you can learn all there is to know about P.T. Barnum and his founding of Barnum & Bailey Circus. Need to get a bite (or drink) after all those adventures? You’ll likely see a mix of professionals and students, as the city is also home to the University of Bridgeport and Housatonic Community College.