Reno, NV downtown district

2021 Top 100 Best Places to Live In America Sponsored by:

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

liv score
696
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 41
Demographics 55
Economy 54
Education 62
Health 59
Housing 47
Infrastructure 48

#41. Reno, NV

The nickname for Reno, NV is “The Biggest Little City in the World” and has a neon arch declaring it (and where you should pose for a photo!). It’s a well-earned reputation: Reno has a strong economic engine and is spoiled with amenities, from the resorts and casinos and the National Bowling Stadium in the Arch District to the restaurants and bars in the Riverwalk and Midtown areas. A brewery row is also a great feature in this bike-friendly city. On top of all this, the Truckee River flows through downtown and residents can get to Lake Tahoe in 30 minutes or so.  

Top Colleges/Universities: University of Nevada, Reno & Truckee Meadows Community College

Top Industries & Employers: Trade and service dominate, but a tech renaissance is happening here, too, as companies find Reno affordable (especially when compared to the Bay Area). Microsoft Licensing and International Gaming Technology have offices here. Also, Reno is home to the Desert Research Institute

Weekend Plans: Enjoy a day trip to Lake Tahoe, which offers year-round fun with its eight world-class ski resorts and 72 miles of shoreline. 

Favorite Place to Feast: Arario Midtown, where the menu is divided into classic Korean dishes and fusion ones. Start with the “kimchee fries.” 

Beloved Beverage: In town, any of the flagship beers from The Brewer’s Cabinet. Or, nearby, Alibi Ale Works brews beer with water from Lake Tahoe.

Outdoorsy Activity: Kayak or tube along Truckee River Whitewater Park, a 1/2 mile stretch with 11 drop pools.

Rooftop Bar: Sky Terrace Sushi Bar serves all-you-care-to-eat sushi on its scenic terrace that’s encased in windows.

Why Your Pet Will Love It, Too: 75% of residents own a pet in Reno, so you’ll be surrounded by animal-loving neighbors. Real World Canine has a doggy day camp where your dog can go for a swim while you’re away at work.

Remote Work Perk: Lots of entrepreneurial events happen here, like TedX and Startup Weekend, and there’s no personal income tax.

One More Thing … Reno is an approved location for drone testing.

– Brittany Anas

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