UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
#7. Lincoln
The city’s outdoor activities, strong economy, entertainment options and affordability make Lincoln, Neb., one of the Best Places to Retire. Home to the University of Nebraska, Lincoln is full of youthful energy that attracts young professionals, entrepreneurs and retirees. About 16 percent of the city’s population is age 60 or older, and while there are retirement communities and assisted living centers to choose from, homes in Lincoln cost less than they do in most mid-sized cities.
Why Lincoln is One of the Best Places to Live in America
Being a college town (and one of the best), it’s easy to find things to do in Lincoln, whether it’s a sporting event, theatrical performance or a singer/songwriter playing in a bar. Downtown Lincoln continues to evolve into a trendy, artsy destination where people come to shop, eat and mingle. The Historic Haymarket District sees a lot of foot traffic and fills with people on weekends who meander among restaurants, shops and art galleries. Pinnacle Bank Arena hosts major concerts while the Lied Center for Performing Arts provides a stage for musicals, comedy shows and other performances. Attracting nearly 10,000 visitors each September, the Lincoln Arts Festival is the city’s largest art event. Residents are treated to art walks, free concerts and festivals throughout the year. Several nearby wineries and dairy farms make great day or half-day getaways. Did we also mention the beer scene?
Find out where Lincoln fell on our 2016 list of 100 Best Places to Live in America
While Lincoln may not offer the beach scene that lures many retirees to Florida or the coasts, it does feature plenty of waterfront, including lakes, ponds and streams filled with trout, bass and other trophy fish. Throughout the city and surrounding area are opportunities to encounter natural treasures, like Wilderness Park, Pioneers Park Nature Center and several trails and hiking paths. Lincoln is loaded with recreational facilities where residents can play tennis, golf, swim, ice skate and cross-country ski.
It’s no wonder Lincoln ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country, according to a Gallup poll.
We voted Lincoln, NE one of the Top 10 Downtowns in America