UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
#12. Burlington
Burlington is not only the birthplace of the ice cream giant Ben & Jerry’s, but the birthplace of many burgeoning businesses. The college town made this list for its affordability; it ranked in the top 10 for both affordable housing and per capita food spending. It also ranked in the top 20 for high wage job growth, and in the top 20 for both commute times and transportation affordability, not to mention easy access to broadband. Burlington is also great for the palate, ranking on our Top 10 Best Foodie Cities two years in a row, as well as our Top 10 College Towns and Top 10 Best Downtowns.