UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
| liv score 631 How We Calculate Our Data |
|
|---|---|
| Civics | 86 |
| Demographics | 47 |
| Economy | 72 |
| Education | 41 |
| Health | 55 |
| Housing | 59 |
| Infrastructure | 69 |
#30. Richland, WA
Richland’s bulletproof economy is just one of the things that earned it a spot on the 2019 Top 100 Best Places to Live list. From some of the most affordable housing prices in Washington to a long list of amenities that includes wineries, golf courses and 23 miles of desert trails, this Eastern Washington city is perfect for those who like to work hard and play even harder.
If lots of sun (well, lots of sunshine compared to the rest of the Pacific Northwest), job security and ample entertainment options are your jam, Richland might be your perfect place to land.
Local Obsession: The Water Follies. Every summer, locals and visitors flock to Columbia River Park to watch hydroplanes race the local waterways.
Climate Described in 6 Words Or Less: It’s all about lotion and sunscreen.
Top Industries and Employers: Richland’s top industries are research and development and healthcare. The top employers are Battelle/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Kadlec Regional Medical Center.
Local Dream Job: Any job at a local vineyard. Who wouldn’t want a position that comes with wine tastings and gorgeous views?
Favorite Weekend Activity: Wine-tasting at one or two (or five or 10) of the over 200 wineries within a 50-mile radius of the city’s center.
After-Work Meetup Spot: Lu Lu Craft Bar & Kitchen where you enjoy meals made from scratch on the Columbia Point waterfront.
Best Brewery/Local Beer: Growler Guys
Beloved Bookstore: Adventures Underground ― a cool, locally-owned mom and pop shop.
Free Way to Have Fun: The nearby confluence of the Snake, Yakima and Columbia rivers has made the area a popular spot for watersports and play. Break out the paddle boards and wakeboards, or enjoy a sunny afternoon floating down the river.
Truly Hidden Gem: The Emerald of Siam. This family-owned Thai restaurant doubles as a live music event venue. It draws popular, national touring bands like Fruition and Skatalites from around the region.
– Annette Benedetti
Read More:
Richland is One of the Most Affordable Cities in Washington