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Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Midwest

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Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Midwest

These 25 Midwestern cities each have something special to offer residents.

By Livability on November 7, 2023

Wisconsin State Capitol and Madison skyline panorama. The Wisconsin State Capitol, houses both chambers of the Wisconsin legislature, Supreme Court and the Office of the Governor.
iStock/Ultima_Gaina

Each year, Livability publishes our research-based Top 100 Best Places to Live in America. The list is based on more than 50 data points and examines more than 2,000 cities to rank the best places to live in the U.S. Here, we’re highlighting the top 25 best places to live in the Midwest based on our research. Each of these cities has something special to offer — read on to find out what.

The Midwest is affectionately — and accurately — known as “America’s Heartland.” It’s known for its assortment of small towns with deep roots and down-to-earth attitudes and an assortment of industrial and agricultural professions intermingling together. But don’t let this nostalgic description fool you. You can find everything you want here in the heart of the country. From water sports on the Great Lakes to the architecturally awe-inspiring streets of Chicago, everyone can find something to love in the Midwest.

1. Carmel, IN

Carmel, IN downtown aerial shot
iStock/Vonkara1
Find antiques, art, furniture and more in the Arts & Design District in downtown Carmel, IN.

Great schools and access to jobs and health care make Carmel, IN, one of the best places to live in the Midwest. Located just north of Indianapolis, Carmel offers a slightly slower lifestyle for daily life with all the amenities of a mid-size city nearby.

A thriving arts scene means residents don’t have to go far for cultural enrichment. The Center for the Performing Arts is a three-venue, world-class performing arts center home to the Palladium Concert Hall and two additional theaters, the Tarkington and Studio Theater, where residents can catch plays, concerts and other performance events. It is also home to the Great American Songbook Foundation, an affiliate of the Grammy Museum. With one of the highest safety scores,

Carmel is a comfortable and relaxed place to raise a family. Well-regulated traffic and bike and walking paths make it a safe place to be out and about, and despite its relatively small size, Carmel has more than 700 acres of parks and greenways to explore and enjoy. Carmel is also home to the legendary Monon Bike Trail. This railroad-turned-trail spans central Indiana for nearly 30 miles and is an off-the-beaten-path way to explore the region

This Midwest city shines in the warmer months but does not go into hibernation, with festivals, a winter farmers market and a conscious effort made city-wide to keep residents active and engaged year-round.

2. Overland Park, KS

Overland Park, KS downtown
iStock/TriggerPhoto

While it’s long been considered a gateway to Kansas City, there’s much worth sticking around for in Overland Park, KS, which has best-in-class youth sports venues, delicious barbecue, a growing brewery scene, a love for the arts and some beautiful gardens. 

A combination of safe neighborhoods, nationally-ranked schools and strong health care and wellness options make Overland Park one of the best places to live in the Midwest. The economy is also robust in Overland Park, with many job options across several sectors. For example, T-Mobile, which recently acquired Sprint, is one of the biggest employers in Overland Park. 

Residents have all kinds of fun things to do in their downtime, from enjoying dinner and a show at The New Theatre & Restaurant to shopping for fruits, veggies, fresh-baked bread and jams at the Overland Park Farmers’ Market and playing simulated golf games at TopGolf. Feeling crafty? Shop for plants and paint a pot for it to live in at Creative Culture, a DIY craft studio and over-the-top milkshake bar where you can turn your Pinterest board into something tangible.

Overland Park also has tons of parks: In fact, you could go to a new park every weekend and still not cover them all. But one of the favorites is Roe Park, which has a large playground with a splash pad and lighted tennis courts. Consider buying an annual membership to the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, where you’ll want to be a regular. You can slip away into a 300-acre oasis of gardens, ponds, trails, wide open prairie, sculptures and play areas. The arboretum hosts all kinds of cool events like bird walks, wildflower walks, plant sales, seedling giveaways, wine tastings and a “Botanical Brewfest.”

One more thing: With the Kansas City Chiefs being the reigning Super Bowl champs, there’s a palpable team spirit in these parts. New residents will definitely want to pick up some red-and-gold gear at Scheels or Made in KC.

3. Fishers, IN

Beautiful full panoramic aerial view of the heart shaped Saugany Lake in Indiana surrounded by residential homes and autumn colored trees or foliage with fluffy white clouds in the sky above
iStock/Big Joe

You’ll be hard-pressed not to be charmed by Fishers, IN, a thriving suburb of Indy, and one of the best places to live in the Midwest. With a rapidly growing population (increasing roughly 2 percent every single year!), Fishers is a city to watch over the next few years and decades. 

“I think Fishers is so special because it has such a variety of amenities — a family looking for things to do, a solo adventure, if you are looking for a girls’ night, a guys’ getaway. There is a really diverse amount of attractions and dining,” says Gabriella Blauert, communications manager for Visit Hamilton County.  

In Fishers, you can experience big-city entertainment amenities — like the Nickel Plate District, which has a ton of restaurants, breweries, and live entertainment — but live in an area with an astoundingly low crime rate. According to the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, there were only 77 instances of violent crime in all of 2021, and the crime rate is 5.2 times smaller than the national average. 

In addition to low crime, Fishers has a commitment to developing a healthy community with programs like WeCare, which provides free fall prevention home audits for seniors. Even celebrities are invested in Fishers community health: The Peyton Manning Children’s Outpatient Center at St. Vincent Fishers offers specialty pediatric care. 

If you’re looking to grow your career and make your next steps, the entrepreneurial community in Fishers can’t be topped, thanks to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in place. Launch Fishers, for instance, is a 52,000-square-foot coworking space for entrepreneurs and creators with more than 600 members, making it the largest in the Midwest. Or Hub & Spoke is a 94,000-square-foot, master-planned, mixed-use development and partnership with the city that includes a design center with retail showrooms, plus a maker space and coworking space. 

4. Naperville, IL

One of the many murals in downtown Naperville, IL, a charming suburb of Chicago that offers a more affordable cost of living, top-notch schools and an excellent safety record.
Todd Bennett
One of the many murals in downtown Naperville, IL, a charming suburb of Chicago that offers a more affordable cost of living, top-notch schools and an excellent safety record.

Naperville, IL, is often considered one of the best places to live in the Midwest., and it’s not hard to see why. This charming western suburb of Chicago has all the hallmarks of a great community: Top-notch schools (seriously, they are amongst the best in Illinois), an excellent safety record (it was recently named the safest city in America), and quite literally one of the best libraries in the entire country. They also can boast a highly-rated hospital, so you won’t typically need to head into the big city to receive an excellent standard of care. 

But what makes Naperville stand out from the rest of the small towns and suburbs around the country is its commitment to community and voluntarism. One of the most beloved areas of Naperville — the Riverwalk, which is about a two-mile stretch of gorgeous trails and event spaces alongside the DuPage River — was actually developed by volunteers. Various community get-togethers and festivals, like farmers markets and concerts, keep residents connected. In addition, the city of just under 150,000 is the perfect mix of big-city attractions and small-town magic, and the cost of living is lower than the neighboring Windy City.  

Getting around is easy. Naperville residents have access to both a bus service and commuter rails. In addition, O’Hare International, Midway International, DuPage and Aurora Municipal airports are all reasonably close by if your travels take you further from home. 

5. Troy, MI

Troy, MI at night
Courtesy of Shane Gorski under a CC 2.0 license.
A view of downtown Troy, MI.

Troy, MI, is a vibrant suburb of Detroit, located approximately 24 miles to the northwest. The dozens of major companies that are based there (such as J.D. Power & Associates and ThyssenKrupp) help boost the city’s economy and keep the unemployment and tax rates down. Troy is also known for its excellent city services, good quality of life, affordability, and a plethora of outdoor resources — all of which justify Troy’s ranking among the best places to live in the Midwest!

Troy was named after its namesake city in New York and, indirectly, after the original, ancient city of Troy. It’s a great place to start a family, thanks to the highly rated schools, including a stand-out fine arts program, along with a college and branches of several universities. Not to mention that Troy was voted the safest city in Michigan and the 19th safest city in the whole country. 

The city is a dreamland for the outdoorsy types, with lakes, streams, trees, two golf courses, a nature center, a skate park, disc golf courses, tennis and basketball courts, soccer and baseball fields, play and picnic areas and a thousand acres of parks. But those who feel more at home indoors won’t feel left out, either. The retail heaven that is Troy includes a 1.4-million-square-foot shopping and dining empire known as the Somerset Collection.

6. Olathe, KS

Sundown at Heritage Park, Olathe, KS. Olathe is one of the best places to live in the Midwest.
iStock/Ayodeji Afolabi

Steeped in rich western history, Olathe, KS, has always been a city with a pioneering spirit. Once a major stop on the Santa Fe Trail in the 19th century, Olathe made its mark as a place to create (cowboy boots were quite literally invented here). Today, it’s one of the best places to live in the Midwest., where entrepreneurs flock thanks to programs like GrowOlathe — an initiative that helps young businesses get technical assistance to help them flourish. As one of the hottest spots in the Midwest, the city promotes “economic gardening,” giving local businesses the technical assistance needed to grow.

Beyond just business, Olathe has bragging rights to a highly educated workforce (about 50.2% of Olathe citizens have a college degree), a stellar public school system and a hospital that continually gets accolades. In fact, Olathe Medical Center was named one of the top 100 hospitals in 2021.

But it isn’t all work and no play in Olathe. The city is named for the Shawnee word for ‘beautiful,’ its gorgeous rolling hills and stunning scenic scapes help Olathe live up to its moniker. In addition, Olathe has a low crime rate and many amenities and attractions to keep residents entertained. 

Olathe is also the fourth-largest city in Kansas, and since 2000, its population has nearly doubled. Still, the residents here have fostered a tight-knit community and created an open and welcoming place to live. 

7. Bloomington, MN

Children play in the fountains at one of the many parks and playgrounds you'll find in Bloomington, MN.
City of Bloomington, MN
Children play in the fountains at one of the many parks and playgrounds you’ll find in Bloomington, MN.

You’ll find everything you need in Bloomington, MN. There’s, of course, the Mall of America, which has 5.6 million feet so you can shop til’ you drop (plus learn how crayons are made, go through a maze of mirrors and ride rollercoasters). But, as one of the best places to live in the Midwest., Bloomington also has A+ schools, fantastic health care, unrivaled parks and some unexpected gems like a peaceful Japanese garden and a ski hill with a snowmaker that makes fresh powder so you can hit the slopes in the winter. 

And, because Minnesota is known as the land of 10,000 lakes, there are plenty of places to spread your legs outside. Visit Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun for waterfront favorites like fishing or swimming. Looking to stay on dry land? Bloomington has many bike paths, public parks and several golf courses. 

Bloomington is also a close-knit community where residents practice what they preach. Bloomington is a place that values diversity and inclusion. A few years ago, the city hired a full-time racial equality coordinator. 

There are plenty of jobs in Bloomington, too, as the region is a hub for headquarters. The Greater Minneapolis region is home to Fortune 500 companies like Target, Best Buy, Land O’ Lakes, General Mills and many more. Plus, an international airport nearby makes it easy for business travelers to make weekly commutes and those using up their PTO days.

8. Rochester Hills, MI

Rochester Hills MI
Rochester Hills / iStock/RiverNorthPhotography

Located 30 miles north of Detroit, Rochester Hills is considered a big city suburb — with a much calmer, safer and more outdoor-centric vibe. With a population of around 76,000, Rochester Hills is the 14th largest city in Michigan. The low crime rate and the strength of the Avondale and Rochester Community School Districts make it a family-friendly town, and the majority of residents own their own homes. Medical care is also top-notch, with many hospitals located near Rochester Hills. Add to that the endless variety of activities, and it’s no wonder that Rochester Hills is one of the best places to live in the Midwest.

There is plenty to do there, no matter what your idea of fun might be. Watch a concert, show or sporting event at the Meadowbrook Amphitheatre. Play golf on one of several courses or soak in nature at one of the many parks. Take in some history at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm or at the old-timey water-powered Yates Cider Mill. Or find something you can’t live without at the Village of Rochester Hills, which is a 375,000-square-foot outdoor shopping district with a downtown-like feel.

9. Evanston, IL

Northwestern University, Evanston, IL

Evanston, IL, is the perfect suburb for people who think they don’t like suburbs. With classic architecture, arts venues, a fantastic food scene and loads of Outdoor Activities, it offers the best of city life within a relaxed suburban community. With Northwestern University — one of the top colleges in the U.S. — at its core, Evanston draws an intellectual crowd. And yet, with so many fun amenities, this city of almost 77,000 offers something for everyone. So it’s no wonder Evanston is becoming known as one of the top places to live in the Midwest.

Sitting just 13 miles north of the Windy City, Evanston is a large suburb where it’s more affordable than the cost of living in Chicago, and it is easy to commute to one of the U.S.’s most bustling cities. Residents can also access several metro and bus connections, making commuting very convenient. Evanston’s location also offers a unique position along the coast of Lake Michigan, which means when the warm weather hits, this city has five gorgeous beaches to enjoy. While the university’s traditional brick and stone architecture and surrounding areas are stunning, so are the 76 parks that offer accessible Outdoor Activities.

Although taking the metro into Chicago for dinner is convenient, foodies don’t need to leave Evanston to find a great meal. In fact, in 2019, Thrillist named Evanston one of “The Country’s Best Suburbs for People Who Love Food.” Food options range from casual joints like The Evanston Chicken Shack to the chic The Barn Steakhouse. Interestingly, Evanston was a dry town until 1972. Now, it’s filled with hip bars, including the popular Temperance Beer Co., whose name is a cheeky nod to the town’s previous anti-alcohol status. 

Arts and culture are easily accessible in this college town. Besides offerings on the Northwestern campus, there are fantastic music venues all over Evanston, like Space, an intimate music hall featuring various genres. 

10. Lee’s Summit, MO

A historic train depot is among the features of a charming downtown that blends revitalized historic buildings, public art, cafes and restaurants in Lee’s Summit, MO.
iStock/TriggerPhoto
A historic train depot is among the features of a charming downtown that blends revitalized historic buildings, public art, cafes and restaurants in Lee’s Summit, MO.

A charming downtown that blends revitalized historic buildings, murals and sculptures and unique stores, cafes and restaurants are just one of the many reasons Lee’s Summit, MO, is one of the best places to live in the Midwest. The city has a friendly, small-town Midwestern feel with traditional suburban neighborhoods for families and an active downtown with apartments and condos near a bustling Main Street. Together, these give Lee’s Summit an urban energy and suburban sensibility that is hard to beat. 

Lee’s Summit is attractive for young families and professionals looking to start a family thanks to its high marks in education. The Lee’s Summit R-7 School District is one of Missouri’s largest and most highly regarded school districts. In addition, the schools and local hospitals are some of the largest employers in the area, and locals have easy access to top-notch care. 

With Kansas City nearby, residents have reasonable commute times and access to bigger city amenities. But, there is plenty to do in town. Lee’s Summit has abundant recreational opportunities, including access to several lakes, parks and wildlife areas. In recent years, the community’s downtown has been revitalized and helped foster a strong sense of community and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Going from Fourth Friday Art Walks to fishing, riding ATVs, or boating on Saturday morning makes Lee’s Summit a great place to live, no matter your interests.  

11. Parma, OH

An aerial view of sleepy neighborhoods in Parma, OH. Cleveland's largest suburb established itself as one of the best places to live in the U.S. with its distinctly down-to-earth midwestern authenticity and affordable lifestyle.
Alamy/valentyn semenov
An aerial view of sleepy neighborhoods in Parma, OH. Cleveland’s largest suburb established itself as one of the best places to live in the U.S. with its distinctly down-to-earth midwestern authenticity and affordable lifestyle.

Parma, OH, is the second largest city in Cuyahoga County, with nearly 80,000 residents and Cleveland’s largest suburb. The city offers easy access to big city amenities within an affordable, family-friendly town vibe. As a result, Parma has established itself as one of the best places to live in the Midwest, with its distinctly down-to-earth midwestern authenticity and affordable lifestyle.

Located within a short distance of Cleveland’s top universities, such as Cleveland State University and nearby Kent State University, and home to the most extensive school system in Cuyahoga County (including many highly rated schools), Parma offers fantastic educational opportunities to its residents. In addition, low crime rates and a lovely park system make it an ideal place to live.

Although Parma has long been known as a great place to raise a family, many young professionals find its convenient city commute and affordability enticing. Home to major corporations, such as General Motors, Parma is a hub of industry. Only a short drive from the city, Parma is also an easy commute to downtown Cleveland offices, restaurants, theaters and museums. And yet, with a medium home price of only $138,733, it offers exciting opportunities for first-time homebuyers and young families.

What’s particularly special about Parma is its laid-back, hometown feel. With kitschy lawn flamingos, neighborhood corner bars and family-owned restaurants, its vibe is a little old-school in the best way. With unique neighborhoods like Ukrainian Village and Polish Village hosting community festivals, Lenten fish frys and delicious homemade pierogies, it’s difficult not to feel at home here. 

12. Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis MN
Minneapolis / iStock/Davel5957

Residents can enjoy the good life in Minneapolis, MN, where they have easy access to lakes and museums, plus professional sports teams to root for, and a nearby mall so big it has its own area code. (The Mall of America is 5.6 million square feet, giving new meaning to the phrase shop til’ you drop!) 

All those amenities and many more, like a thriving arts and culture scene and cosmopolitan restaurants, make Minneapolis one of the best places to live in the Midwest. 

Minnesota invests heavily in its arts, and Minneapolis is a testament to the commitment, with art museums, galleries and colorful outdoor murals present throughout the city. Plus, did you know that the Minneapolis region has the second most theater seats per capita, outdone only by New York City? It’s a reflection of the city’s lively performing arts community. Minneapolis is also home to the country’s first-ever sculpture garden (and it’s free!) 

With more than 425,000 residents, Minneapolis is a major metro. But groups like “In Sisterhood, We Brunch” that uplifts Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) women help to create a sense of community among residents.

Minneapolis is known for welcoming immigrants and refugees, and the city’s melting pot of cultures is reflected in its culinary scene. Get a good taste of foods from around the world at Midtown Global Market, where you’ll find street foods from India and Nepal, flavors from Morocco, arepas, sushi, and the Indigenous Food Lab, which focuses on education and food lab. 

Health care is also prioritized in Minnesota. Twin Cities hospitals are highly rated, more than 750 health and life science companies have a presence in the region, and United Health Care is a significant employer and is headquartered in the Minneapolis region. 

Ready to move to the Twin Cities? Consider a juicy Lucy burger, summer lake days, and biking along the Midtown Greenway all to be rites of passage for new residents.

13. Omaha, NE

Omaha NE
Omaha / Photo Courtesy of Visit Omaha

With best-in-class parks, a strong economy, good schools and quality health care, Omaha, NE, is easily one of the best places to live in the Midwest. 

With a low cost of living and high quality of life, Omaha is a magnet for young professionals and families looking to put down roots. Exciting new developments are energizing the city, like the $325 million RiverFront transformation that’s bringing cool new parks to the area. The Gene Leahy Mall in the heart of downtown has a playground, interactive water features, a dog park, and spaces for outdoor movie nights and pop-up yoga classes. The RiverFront’s two other parks, Heartland of America Park and Lewis and Clark Landing, are coming in the summer of 2023 and will have an Urban Beach, skate ribbon, bocce courts, playgrounds, amphitheater and more. Residents are also excited about the forthcoming Kiewit Luminarium, an interactive museum about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Omaha’s economy is rock steady, too, with 45,000 companies, including many Fortune 500s, based in Greater Omaha. The world-renowned University of Nebraska Medical Center is a top health care employer, and the region is also home to medical technology, agribusiness and financial services enterprises, plus 65 defense-related companies and Offutt Air Force Base.

14. Cedar Rapids, IA

Cedar Rapids IA
Cedar Rapids / iStock/DenisTangneyJr

Cedar Rapids, IA, blows all preconceived notions about middle America out of the water. The city weaves its rich ethnic history with a booming technological future and boasts some of the most stable and affordable housing prices, making it one of the best places to live in the Midwest. 

While the area still thrives on the manufacturing and agriculture it was built on, Cedar Rapids has become a technology hub for telecommunications, defense electronics and aerospace-affiliated fields. That thriving economy draws in young professionals who love that the median home cost is just above $170,000. 

But new residents stay here because it’s a diverse, welcoming city that embraces its history while being forward-thinking and inclusive. Cedar Rapids has received a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index scorecard multiple times, and the city embraces new groups that choose to call it home. All those different cultures bring amazing arts, music and food to the city for everyone to enjoy. Proximity to farmland means eating farm-fresh isn’t a gimmick, but a way of life and the restaurant scene in Cedar Rapids continues to grow with talented chefs making the best of the ingredients at hand. The nearby airport makes it easy to jet off to warmer climates or bigger cities before returning to the inexpensive, easy-going charm of Cedar Rapids. 

15. Madison, WI

Students walk along a colorful tree-lined sidewalk outside Bascom Hall in fall at the University of Wisconsin-Madison on Nov. 4, 2016. (Photo by Bryce Richter / UW-Madison)

Residents find all sorts of Midwest magic in Madison, WI, from Frank Lloyd Wright architecture to 200 miles of hiking and biking trails, plus a burgeoning craft beer scene and an established squeaky cheese curd circuit. As one of the best places to live in the Midwest., Madison is situated on an isthmus, and locals have access to 15,000 acres of lakes, which means there are endless ways to enjoy the outdoors — you can paddle, swim and sail to your heart’s content. Madison is also a walkable and bike-friendly city, and, as home to the University of Wisconsin, there’s a pervasive youthful buzz. Fun Fact: A student prank involving plastic lawn birds is how the pink flamingo became the city’s official bird. 

A pride and joy of Madison is the Dane County Farmers Market, which brings locals and tourists together on “the Square” to shop for everything from aged cheddar and sourdough loaves to flower bouquets and farm-fresh eggs. Another thing that makes Madison so unique is just how much free fun there is to be had here, with admission-free attractions including the Henry Vilas Zoo and its 800 inhabitants and the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, a 16-acre oasis with beautiful gardens and an ornate Thai Pavilion (the only one in the states!). 

As a college town and a capital city, Madison has a diverse and resilient economy, too. As a result, entrepreneurs have a wide and deep network of support to help them launch successful startups. In addition, the region is home to leading national brands, including American Family Insurance, Trek Bicycle, American Girl and John Deere.

16. Lincoln, NE

Lincoln skyline and Nebraska State Capitol. The Nebraska State Capitol is the seat of government for the U.S. state of Nebraska and is located in downtown Lincoln.
iStock/Ultima_Gaina

All are welcome in Lincoln, NE, from college students to retirees. Fargo is a refugee resettlement city, and this is a place with a heartfelt commitment to helping its immigrant and refugee communities thrive.

As one of the best places to live in the Midwest, the capital of Nebraska offers a low cost of living and a high quality of life with access to more than 120 parks, average commute times under 20 minutes and a whole lot of hometown pride (Go, Huskers!). At the center of it all is The Railyard, an entertainment district with restaurants and bars. The Railyard is across from Pinnacle Bank Arena, a 15,500 arena that hosts concerts and sporting events. 

In recent years, Lincoln has become known for both its growing craft beer and foodie scenes. The Haymarket District is a revitalized area of town where the past meets the present and houses various restaurants, boutiques and galleries. Stretch your legs at Holmes Lake, a 110-acre reservoir, where visitors can fish, bike and walk along the trails or visit the free Hyde Memorial Observatory. 

When it’s time to get down to business, Nebraska’s K-12 and higher education system sets students up for success, and Nebraska has some of the lowest unemployment rates in the country. 

17. Fargo, ND

Fargo ND
Fargo / iStock

Friendly residents, a diversified, recession-proof economy, plus a hip arts and culture scene all combine to make Fargo, ND, one of the best places to live in the Midwest. 

Those who put down roots on the prairie find their dollar stretches further in Fargo. Plus, there are various career opportunities in Fargo, from a growing biosciences sector that’s attracting big-name companies to a thriving Unmanned Aircraft Systems industry that’s being shaped here, and enterprises like Grand Farm are harnessing technology to solve agricultural problems. Fargo is the perfect place to live if you’re looking to grow your business, are looking for new opportunities or are an entrepreneur at heart looking for a supportive, business-savvy community

Fargo and its environs are also a hub for arts and culture, with the Stage West Theatre hosting musicals and plays, the Plains Art Museum that has a collection of Native American artworks and more, and colorful murals around town that make for a fabulous outdoor gallery. (Find the Mario Wall behind the Toasted Frog). 

On top of all that, Fargo is close to pine forests and lakes, so there are endless opportunities to mountain bike, canoe, camp and hike.

18. Rochester, MN

A woman looks at a colorful art installation along the bike trails near downtown Rochester, MN. Known as the home of the Mayo Clinic, Rochester is also one of the best places to live in the U.S. in 2023.

Rochester, MN, is quickly becoming one of the best places to live in the Midwest due to the endless opportunities for residents to create a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle. Home to the number 1 hospital in the United States — The Mayo Clinic — Rochester’s 123,144 residents can access world-class health care right at home. The hospital also attracts well-educated people who move to the city with their families, which translates into a highly-rated public school system. The city’s value of education is also reflected in the city’s higher education institutions, including the University of Rochester and the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine.

Healthy lifestyles extend beyond health care and education. Although the winters may be cold and snowy, Rochester residents embrace the elements and see it as an opportunity for different forms of outdoor activity. Ice fishing, snowshoeing, hockey, ice skating, cross-country skiing and sledding are easily accessible and popular winter activities in the area. During the warmer months, the city offers more than 100 parks for biking, hiking, picnicking, swimming and water sports.

The food scene offers a wide variety of interesting options for foodies, ranging from the special tasting menu at ThaiPop to the fun on tap at TheThirsty Belgian. In addition, the ever-popular Rochester Farmers Market offers year-round access to fresh food grown within 50 miles of the city. Considering how much Rochester offers, the median home price of $284,736 is incredibly reasonable. 

19. Ann Arbor, MI

Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, residents and businesses can enjoy the perks of living and operating in a college town — a youthful spirit, gameday fun, a strong talent pipeline, and campus amenities open to all, like the University of Michigan Museum of Art, which has a 20,000-piece collection. 

Ann Arbor (or A2 as locals call it!) is one of the best places to live in the Midwest., partly because of its top-rated university and excellent public schools. The area also has high-ranking hospitals and health care options and an innovation-driven economy. Those looking to launch or grow their careers can find jobs in auto innovation, artificial intelligence and biotech (a heart-lung machine used in the first heart transplant was made here).

Ann Arbor is also a creative hub, and residents have access to live music, independent bookstores, museums, theater performances and the annual Ann Arbor Art Fair that takes place every summer. Great restaurants with flavors from around the world and an iconic deli (Zingerman’s!) add to Ann Arbor’s appeal.

20. Appleton, WI

Appleton, WI, is a centrally located city in the larger Paper Valley region, close to Green Bay and just north of Lake Winnebago and overlooking the Fox River. Appleton is the cultural heart of the Fox Cities, a lovely section of Wisconsin where woodsy trails link communities and supper clubs, live music and a shared love for the arts bring neighbors together. Appleton is one of the best places to live in the Midwest because of its safe neighborhoods, affordable homes and high-quality health care provided by three major regional hospital systems. One of the safest cities in Wisconsin, with a low cost of living and growing entertainment and food scenes, Appleton is increasingly appealing to young families and young professionals.

The Fox Cities have a long tradition of paper making and printing, and other key industries include food processing and heavy transport manufacturing for the military, aerospace industry and emergency services.

Though the winters do get cold and snowy, people in Appleton have learned to embrace it and have found hundreds of ways to get outside and enjoy the season. The cold also makes residents that much more appreciative of warmer months. There’s rarely a summer day that passes without a concert, festival or market somewhere in Appleton, as the residents make the most of the spring and summer months. Appleton also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with music festivals, a performing arts center that brings touring Broadway shows and the Trout Museum of Art. The area is known for its live music, ranging from a summer concert series to punk bands playing at pizzerias and guitarists strumming at coffee shops. There’s also a history museum in a castle where you can learn about one of Appleton’s most famed residents, Harry Houdini and his legendary tricks.

21. St. Louis, MO

Outside of the nation’s capital, St. Louis, MO, claims to boast more free major attractions than anywhere in the United States. Locals and visitors have admission-free entry to places like the Saint Louis Art Museumscience center, zoo, Missouri History Museum and many more spots, and the accessibility of these amenities are among the reasons why St. Louis is one of the best places to live in the Midwest.

In the realm of careers, St. Louis has established itself as a leader in health sciences and services, though the area has a strong tradition of leadership in transportation and logistics. It’s also an emerging hot spot for financial services and investment advisors. In recent years, St. Louis has carved out a reputation as a tech hotspot, drawing tech companies, remote workers and entrepreneurs eager to join (and grow) the innovative, creative tech scene here. 

In every corner of the city, you’ll find creative, driven people actively working to make St. Louis the best city it can be — and their hard work is paying off. Some more things that make St. Louis special are the 630-foot tall landmark Gateway Arch, Cardinals baseball, an outdoor summer Shakespeare festival and a bonafide beer scene, with the city being home to Anheuser-Busch and smaller craft breweries.

22. Bloomington, IL

Historic building in downtown Bloomington, IL
iStock.com/ghornephoto
A historic building in downtown Bloomington, IL. Downtown Bloomington is the home of State Farm Insurance. Abraham Lincoln had a office and practiced law in downtown Bloomington, IL

It wouldn’t be too far-fetched to say that you’ll fall in love with charming Bloomington, IL, and immediately want to check out the Zillow listings (which are, of course, incredibly affordable when compared to the rest of the country). What makes Bloomington stand out as one of the best places to live in the Midwest is its proximity to multiple universities — and all of the benefits that come along with being a college town. Bloomington is home to Illinois Wesleyan University but is also conveniently located near Illinois State University, Heartland Community College and Eureka College in the greater Bloomington-Normal metro area. 

“[Bloomington-Normal] boasts history, architecture, and art; the youthful vibe of a university town; a flourishing local food scene; and an emphasis on sustainability,” says Crystal Howard, president of and CEO of the Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. 

And with all of this at your fingertips, housing is still largely affordable. The median home value in Bloomington is around $186,000, and the average mortgage in the area is $1,458 (this is about $400 cheaper than the rest of the country). 

Like many other college towns, Bloomington has diverse cultural offerings, plenty of restaurants and a wealth of other amenities. In addition, residents can enjoy more than 60 parks, a large producer-only farmers market and easy access to Lake Bloomington. 

23. Lawrence, KS

The University of Kansas is a hub of creativity and activity that radiates into the Lawrence, KS, community. High marks in education help make Lawrence one of the best places to live in the U.S.
iStock/BergmannD
The University of Kansas is a hub of creativity and activity that radiates into the Lawrence, KS, community. High marks in education help make Lawrence one of the best places to live in the U.S.

Home to the flagship campus of the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations UniversityLawrence, KS, is an educational mecca whose commitment to learning stretches to cover residents of all ages. Unsurprisingly, Lawrence ranks high in education on our index, but what makes this city one of the best places to live in the Midwest is the consistency of its high scores across all livability categories. Educational excellence begins with a commitment to K-12 students with several National Blue Ribbon Schools and a host of innovative programming. In addition, a robust economy with jobs in various high-paying industries means great careers for residents, and a housing market that covers family homes alongside apartments and condos with a median housing cost of just over $277,000 means there’s no difficulty in finding an affordable place to live. 

The university is a hub of creativity and activity that radiates into the community. Massachusetts Street  Mass Street to locals — is the center of the action, with shops, restaurants and galleries. That being said, Lawrence residents have ample chances to get out into nature, with more than 50 parks and a concerted effort to make the town bike-friendly is underway. In addition, Lawrence residents know how to let off steam, and there’s always live music happening somewhere in the city. 

If you’re looking for something sporty, the town is obsessed with men’s basketball — and Jayhawks seem to multiply during basketball season. But that’s not all there is to cheer for. The University of Kansas sponsors 16 different NCAA sports, and tickets to baseball, women’s basketball, softball, volleyball, and more range from $5 to $20.

24. Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH, known as the “Queen City” for its beauty and culture, is a crown jewel of the Midwest. This mid-sized city of 307,818 sits along the Ohio River right across from Northern Kentucky. Its rolling hills cast a beautiful landscape and naturally create distinct neighborhoods with unique personalities. With its blend of midwestern friendliness, cultural amenities, inviting greenspace, and affordability, Cincinnati is quickly becoming known as one of the best places to live in the Midwest.

In recent years, Cincinnati has seen the revitalization of historic city neighborhoods such as the Over the Rhine district. These areas are now filled with hip restaurants and bars, conveniently joined by “The Connector” — an electric-powered streetcar that offers free transportation along its 3.6-mile loop. The city is also filled with stunning greenspaces like Eden Park. These kinds of amenities, as well as a strong job market, are among the many reasons that Cincinnati is an excellent place for young professionals to plant roots. The financial website SmartAsset gave Cincinnati the top spot on their list of “The Best Cities for New College Grads” in 2022.

While top local universities help drive the economy with research and innovation, sports fans will also appreciate that Cincinnati is home to one of the most exciting events in college sports — the “Crosstown Shootout” between local rivals University of Cincinnati and Xavier University. The city comes alive when these basketball teams match up! Beyond sports, the city has thriving museums, art spaces and theaters. 

What’s particularly impressive about Cincinnati is that despite these incredible amenities, the city’s housing market remains highly affordable. With a median house price of $205,389 and a low cost of living, it’s become an attractive option for young people looking to purchase their first home.

25. Davenport, IA

Cyclists and walkers use the Riverfront Trail in downtown Davenport, IA. Hundreds of miles of trails, great museums and a fun food scene make Davenport one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Nathan Lambrecht
Cyclists and walkers use the Riverfront Trail in downtown Davenport, IA. Hundreds of miles of trails, great museums and a fun food scene make Davenport one of the best places to live in the U.S.

Located in the heart of the Midwest and along the banks of the Mississippi River, Davenport, IA, is part of the dynamic bi-state Quad Cities region. Those who call Davenport home enjoy short commutes, a lower cost of living and award-winning health care systems. 

As one of the best places to live in the Midwest., Davenport and the surrounding cities have great museums, hundreds of miles of trails for walking and biking, and a fun food scene that includes craft breweries and food trucks. Inclusivity is also front of mind here, with an Enabling Garden that’s accessible and features plants and flowers that simulate all of the senses.

Davenport also loves festivals and gatherings like Icetravaganza, which puts on a display of illuminated ice sculptures in the winter, and the Riverpalooza concert series, which sets the soundtrack in the summer.

When it comes to work, Davenport is home to John Deere’s headquarters and has a resilient economy with agricultural innovation as a cornerstone. The area is also attracting remote workers and entrepreneurs, and other top industries here include advanced metals and materials supported by local foundries as well as defense and logistics. 

Best Places to Live in the Midwest Map

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