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Top 25 Best Places To Live Out West

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Top 25 Best Places To Live Out West

These 25 cities out West all have something special.

By Livability on April 6, 2023

Bend, OR, is one of the best places to live out west.
Bend / iStock/benedek

Known for its rich heritage in pioneers and rough-and-tumble adventurers, the West is teeming with breathtaking landscapes, unparalleled beauty, and iconic bucket list destinations. It’s also home to some of the most innovative minds in the country and a remarkable number of cities that regularly top the charts on best places to live. This combination understandably makes the West an irresistible draw to people interested in everything from rustic outdoor adventures to modern convenience and amenities.

Each year, Livability puts together the Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S. The list is based on over 100 data points and examines 2,300 cities to narrow down the best places to live in America. Here, we’re highlighting the 25 best places to live out West based on our research. 

1. Broomfield, CO

Housing options are diverse in Broomfield, CO, ranging from big homes on sprawling lots to friendly neighborhoods.
City and County of Broomfield
Housing options are diverse in Broomfield, CO, ranging from big homes on sprawling lots to friendly neighborhoods.

With views of the snow-capped Rockies, excellent schools, plus all kinds of job opportunities for aerospace engineers, pasta lovers and ski enthusiasts alike, Broomfield, CO, is one of the best places to live in the West. 

The economy is thriving, with major employers like Ball Aerospace, Vail Resorts, Noodles & Company and Mrs. Fields Cookies setting up their headquarters or regional offices in Broomfield and, in turn, providing many jobs in the region. Broomfield also has its very own 6,500-person events center, the 1STBANK Center, which hosts everything from the Harlem Globetrotters basketball games to high school graduations, MMA fights and concerts.

Broomfield also ranks high in the health care and education categories. UCHealth Broomfield Hospital, a 40-bed hospital, opened in 2016, joining several other regional medical centers. In addition to high-ranked K-12 schools, this family-friendly city is an easy commute to several higher-ed institutions, a plus for residents who want to upskill. The city is also recognized for its favorable conditions for women in the workplace

Housing options are diverse in Broomfield, ranging from big homes on sprawling lots to friendly neighborhoods and modern apartments in Arista Uptown, which is in the heart of a restaurant and entertainment district. 

Broomfield’s location is also a perk for residents who want to get out and explore on the weekends. The city of 76,856 is conveniently located between outdoors-loving Boulder, which is 15 minutes away, and Denver, which is reachable in half an hour and comes with big-city amenities like major league sports teams, art museums and an always-expanding restaurant scene. 

But there’s plenty to do close to home, too. Broomfield’s FlatIron Crossing Mall is being redeveloped into a mixed-use entertainment, housing, shopping and employment district. In the meantime, it is home to many retailers, an AMC Theatre for moviegoers and several restaurants. 

Also, the city’s parks and recreation department is top-notch, with 281 miles of trails, more than 700 acres of developed parks and 45 playgrounds, providing residents with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Colorado’s famous sunshine. Some park highlights include a bike park, a remote-controlled airfield to let your drones roam, and the Bay Aquatic Park with slides, a water play structure and a skate park. 

Families will also find much to do along the U.S. 36 corridor, from the Butterfly Pavilion, where butterflies flit about in a tropical atrium in neighboring Westminster, to Water World, a large waterpark with more than 50 rides (including one with animatronic dinosaurs) in nearby Federal Heights. 

2. Sandy, UT

Mountain view in Sandy, UT
iStock/DenisTangneyJr
Sandy is a city in the Salt Lake City metropolitan area, located in Salt Lake County, Utah, United States.

Exciting things are happening in Sandy, Utah, with projects like The Cairns creating an energetic hub where residents can live, shop, work, and play. The development strikes a unique urban feel within a suburb. How many ‘burbs can boast they’re home to a major league soccer stadium and a theater that stages Broadway shows?  

The strong economy is one of the many reasons Sandy is among the best places to live in the West. A whopping 6,000 jobs have been created in The Cairns alone, with major employers like InContact Software choosing the district for their headquarters.

Sandy gets geographic bonus points for being on the front porch of Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons, which are a significant draw for skiers, hikers and leaf peepers (seriously, the fall foliage is so good here, it looks as though it was the muse for Bob Ross’ paint palette).

Given this Utah suburb’s superb location, Sandy residents tend to be outdoors lovers, evidenced by the REI store in town, helping weekend warriors gear up for an adventure. Snowbird and Alta resorts are nearby, making weekend ski trips a breeze. Climbers can hone their skills at Momentum Indoor Climbing, which has 20,000 feet of climbing terrain, plus fitness and yoga space. 

3. Beaverton, OR

Downtown with dog in Beaverton OR
Courtesy of TualatinValley.org/Ken Kochey
Downtown with dog in Beaverton OR

Residents can have the best of both worlds in Beaverton, OR. It’s no surprise that Beaverton’s access to the outdoors and commitment to sustainability and protecting the environment are among the reasons the city earned a spot as one of the best places to live in the West.

With a balance of prominent corporations, small businesses, and housing options from apartments to family homes, Beaverton is a great place to live, work and play. It is so much more than just a suburb of Portland; the city has created its own identity and community. Transit into the city is easy and accessible when necessary, but locals love having less traffic and a relatively lower cost of living than in Portland

Beaverton straddles the transition from rural to urban as families have access to conveniences like great doctors and hospitals, farm-fresh produce, and miles of hiking trails just outside their door. Residents love to live outside, taking advantage of more than 90 parks, 1,500 acres of natural area and more than 60 miles of paved trails. The city’s economy has attracted people from all over, giving Beaverton an eclectic feel on display at events throughout the year, like Ten Tiny DancesBeaverton Celebration Parade and street fairs throughout the city. 

4. Thornton, CO

Thornton, CO, has a fantastic parks and recreation department, which makes the area an excellent place for young families.
Jeff Adkins
Thornton, CO, has a fantastic parks and recreation department, which makes the area an excellent place for young families.

Thornton, CO, is a Denver suburb near Mile High City, Denver International Airport and the Rocky Mountains. It reaps all the benefits of the big city but has an entirely unique feel. Good schools, access to high-quality health care and a strong economy all contribute to the way of life here.

But this growing metro that’s become one of the best places to live in the West has lots of surprises in store. Take, for instance, Thornton’s international food scene that includes spots like Ay Guey, a Mexican street snack shop dishing out elote topped with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos; Sushi Umi, which has hibachi dinners, a sushi bar and mochi ice cream; plus all kinds of taquerias and other Mexican restaurants. This north metro city also got one of Colorado’s first In-N-Out Burger restaurants, and the lines for animal-style burgers are still bonkers. 

Thornton also has a fantastic parks and recreation department, which makes the area an excellent place for young families. Carpenter Park is a regional favorite with a carousel, boathouse, spray ground, skate park and amphitheater. The Margaret Carpenter Recreation Center just got a $14 million renovation and has a wave pool with a lazy river, a therapeutic hydro-jet spa, and an enclosed slide that starts and ends inside but twists through an outdoor space.

Good jobs are abundant in Thornton, too. The nearly 145,000 people who call Thornton home are privy to a diverse economy. The city is a part of Adams County, a region with a good range of industries from aerospace to advanced manufacturing and life sciences.

5. Vancouver, WA

Vancouver, WA waterfront district
MawardibaharMawardibahar
A view of Vancouver, WA’s waterfront, which ranks as one of the Livability Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S.

Find Pacific Northwest magic at its best in Vancouver, WA. This community of 200,000 sits nestled along the shores of the Columbia River Gorge and is conveniently located across from Portland, with the Cascade Mountains providing a gorgeous backdrop. 

As one of the best places to live in the West, Vancouver is an inclusive place to call home, with a proud LGBTQ community and a longstanding Pride celebration. Vancouver is also the birthplace of Willie Nelson’s music career and is not too far from the Pacific Ocean, which comes with all the makings for great weekend escapes — we’re talking moody beach towns, whale-watching spots and coastal trails. Residents can also fill their weekend calendars with fun things to do, including festivals that celebrate everything from art made of recycled materials to Polynesian culture. Or kick your feet up and appreciate the region’s burgeoning craft beer and wine scene. 

Not surprisingly, “The’ Couve” has excellent local roasters and coffee shops (there’s even a festival devoted to cold brew!), cozy bakeries and a fantastic beer scene, with traditions like Music Bingo at Ghost Runners Brewery. Plus, the waterfront is bustling. Locals and tourists can stroll at the Vancouver Waterfront Park and grab some beer-battered fish and chips from a walk-up window at What a Catch Fishbar.

Part of the “Silicon Forest,” the greater Clark County area is appealing to startup and software companies looking for alternatives to the Bay Area and Seattle. Clean technology, solar power and autonomous cars are all industries showing much promise in Vancouver and its environs. 

6. Hillsboro, OR

A view of downtown Hillsboro, OR, where residents can find plenty of things to do, from shopping to grabbing a cup of coffee from a local roaster and exploring diverse dining options.
Addie Mannan
A view of downtown Hillsboro, OR, where residents can find plenty of things to do, from shopping to grabbing a cup of coffee from a local roaster and exploring diverse dining options.

Once a small farming town, Hillsboro, OR, is today a growing city of more than 100,000 residents and is considered part of the “Silicon Forest” because of all the high-tech companies sprouting up in the region. 

With a minor league baseball team to root for (go, Hillsboro Hops!), a fantastic beer scene and the Rice Museum of Rocks and Minerals (and also meteorites!), Hillsboro is considered one of the best places to live in the West.

The economy is resilient, with tech giants, software companies, startups, media firms, and more picking Hillsboro as a home base. Intel and Nike are some of the area’s biggest employers, and several bioscience and medical device companies also provide many jobs and work in partnership with regional facilities like Oregon Health & Science University, Kaiser Permanente and Tuality Health Care. 

Hillsboro leaders and residents also prioritize sustainability: The city partnered with the Environmental Protection Agency to become a Green Power Community. Hillsboro is also served by the MAX Blue Line, a light rail line that connects Portland to surrounding cities. 

Hillsboro is the fifth-largest city in the state of Oregon and prides itself on the diverse and welcoming community it has created. There are plenty of cute shops, delicious dining options and beautiful natural areas to keep residents entertained year-round. 

7. Salt Lake City, UT

Salt Lake City UT
Salt Lake City / iStockPhoto/SerrNovik

Nicknamed the “Silicon Slopes” thanks to a tech boom, Salt Lake City, UT, is drawing young professionals who want a work-life-ski balance. The surrounding slopes are reachable within an hour, and the powder is so good here it’s been trademarked as “The Greatest Snow on Earth.” As one of the best places to live in the U.S., Salt Lake City has a magnificent backyard playground braided with hiking and biking trails. Adventurous weekend trips are in order, too, as Utah has five national parks, so you can explore otherworldly hoodoos at Bryce Canyon National Park, hike The Narrows at Zion and more.

Salt Lake City is also ready to challenge any preconceived notions you may have about it. You’ll find a progressive queer scene here with a Pride Week that brings 100,000 to the downtown area. And yup, there’s a pretty dang good beer scene, too, with some award-winning Utah breweries ready to serve you.

When residents aren’t busy playing outside, they can hit up The Local Market & Bar, a collective of eateries serving green chile dishes, Mediterranean fare, barbecue, Neapolitan pizzas, over-the-top milkshakes and more. They also host fun events, like build-your-own dog treat “barkuterie” board afternoons and a live music series.

Utah’s capital city has a robust transportation system, an international airport and a thriving arts scene. The Broadway-style Eccles Theater is a state-of-the-art venue that seats 2,500 and has quickly become the performance destination for Salt Lake City and the Intermountain West.

8. Meridian, ID

A family bikes in Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park in Meridian, ID. A suburb of Boise, Meridian has all the advantages of city life plus beautiful surroundings and plenty of outdoor activities.
©Journal/Marjorie McBride
A family bikes in Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park in Meridian, ID. A suburb of Boise, Meridian has all the advantages of city life plus beautiful surroundings and plenty of outdoor activities.

Originally founded as a dairy farming community, Meridian, ID, is more commerce than cows these days. The city has a healthy economy with plenty of successful businesses and has been ranked the fastest-growing city in Idaho and one of the fastest-growing in the country. But Meridian is more than just metropolitan. Located 12 miles west of the state capital of Boise, amid the famed Treasure Valley, Meridian has all the advantages of city life, plus beautiful surroundings full of outdoor splendor — which help make it one of the best places to live in the West.

The Treasure Valley has a diverse terrain that includes desert, mountains, forest, rivers and lakes, providing outdoor opportunities galore in and around Meridian. There’s everything from hiking to biking, swimming to skiing — both on the water and the slopes (there are three ski resorts in the area). There’s also great fishing, boating and camping.

Beyond the treasures of the Treasure Valley, Meridian also has good schools, reasonable prices, attractive parks, and an excellent safety record (and they are continuously trying to lower crime rates even further through programs such as Neighborhood Watch). The city is also chock-full of entertainment options, such as shopping, great restaurants, museums, live music venues and art galleries. In addition, Meridian fosters a real sense of community, sponsoring various events throughout the year to bring people together and give them even more to love about their city. For instance, the city puts on movie nights, open-air concerts and a farmers market in the summer. Fall brings a Halloween parade and a community art party, and Meridian goes all out for the winter holidays.

9. Orem, UT

Bridal Veil Falls near Orem, UT, is a popular outdoor destination, especially during the autumn when nearby Provo Canyon is set ablaze with fall colors.
iStock/Sean Pavone
Bridal Veil Falls near Orem, UT, is a popular outdoor destination, especially during the autumn when nearby Provo Canyon is set ablaze with fall colors.

Once considered “The Garden City” of Utah because of its productive orchards and farmlands, Orem, one of the best places to live in the West, has evolved into a thriving suburb and is a popular place to raise a family. Its new nickname is “Family City USA,” a reputation solidified by its good schools, safe neighborhoods and all kinds of kid-friendly amenities, including the All Together Playground, an all-abilities fun zone built by 4,100 volunteers.

Just 45 minutes from Salt Lake City, Orem is bordered by Utah Lake to the West and the stunning Wasatch Mountains to the east. With 103,000 residents and counting, Orem is a growing city that manages to preserve its small-town feel. 

Companies, including many high-tech enterprises that are setting up shop there, have a pipeline of talent in Orem, as the city is home to Utah Valley University and five minutes from Brigham Young University. 

For young families, there’s much to do, including the annual Timpanogos Storytelling Festival and programs at the Orem Public Library like a Lego lab, art shows, and a Makerspace lab that’s stocked with a sewing machine, craft cutters, studio microphones, GoPro cameras and more.

10. Fort Collins, CO

Fort Collins CO
Fort Collins / iStock/RiverNorthPhotography

Mickey Mouse and crew would feel right at home in Fort Collins, CO — because Historic Old Town Fort Collins actually inspired Disneyland’s Main Street USA. This Northern Colorado city is one of the best places to live in the West and is known for being a cute college town, a craft beer capital, and a paradise for outdoors lovers who live for weekends spent exploring trails, white water rafting and camping under dark, star-studded skies.

Fort Collins gets extra credit for being a smarty-pants kind of city. In addition to superb K-12 schools, Colorado State University is located here. The university receives accolades for many of its programs, including its College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, which graduates students who go on to take care of pets around the world. CSU is also honored for being a top school for military veterans, producing a high volume of civic-minded Peace Corps and being a leader in sustainability. For example, some of the green initiatives on campus include reusable to-go containers in the dining halls, meaning fewer takeout containers are in a landfill.

For those looking to launch or grow their careers, Fort Collins’ resilient economy is supported by several industries — with some of the area’s largest employers building your dependable phone cases (OtterBox) and helping keep your pearly whites clean (Waterpik). Other significant employers include Noosa Yogurts, Hewlett Packard Enterprises and tech-driven startups. The city is also a leader in up-and-coming sectors like bioscience and clean energy. 

Oh, and a favorite way to get around town is on two wheels: This bike-friendly city has a Spin e-bike and e-scooter share program.

Fort Collins is also the largest craft beer producer in Colorado, with more than 70% of it made here, a fun piece of trivia considering the city was dry until 1969. (Psst, dial up those not-so-long-ago speakeasy vibes at Social Fort Collins, a subterranean cocktail bar). Residents who are thirsty after all their adventure-packed days can find plenty of spots to grab a cold pint and enjoy some live music, from the big names like O’Dell Brewing Co and New Belgium to the smaller breweries making tasty beers. Snowbank Brewing is known to get creative with small-batch brews like the “Bagy-ale” everything bagel-inspired beer and cherry-chocolate stouts.

11. Castle Rock, CO

Castle Rock, CO: 2022 Philip S. Miller Mural in Castle Rock, Colorado ©Journal Communications/Colin Shreffler
Colin Shreffler

Castle Rock, CO, manages to strike that elusive balance of truly having a small-town feel with big-city amenities, which, combined, make it one of the best places to live in the West. 

Castle Rock is known for being a midway point between Denver and Colorado Springs and also for drawing shoppers looking to score killer deals at its outlet malls. But the more than 75,000 residents who call Castle Rock home know there’s much more to make this community special. Castle Rock fosters a tight-knit community, and residents have several opportunities to gather together throughout the year at events like the annual Starlighting ceremony with cameos by Santa Claus and a summer concert series at The Amphitheater at Philip S. Miller Park, where Grammy-award-winning musicians rock out.

Ranking high in the health care category, the Centura Castle Rock Adventist Hospital provides care for the community. It has been recognized as having a leading birth center and 3D mammography in Colorado’s first sensory suite, which makes for a more calming experience for those doing cancer screenings. And forget bland cafeteria food; the hospital’s lobby-level restaurant, Manna, serves gourmet dishes like cola-braised short rib, cauliflower tacos and pizzas with inventive toppings. (The food is so good, residents come to dine here — no medical appointments needed).

Great schools are also a significant draw in Castle Rock, home to the innovative ACC Sturm Collaboration Campus, allowing residents to conveniently earn an associate degree from Arapahoe Community College and a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University. Programs include marketing, management, cybersecurity, software development and more.

Castle Rock residents are also spoiled with outdoor amenities, including 5,800 acres of open space and nearly 75 miles of trails. The 300-acre Philip S. Miller Park is a crown jewel of the community, with the Miller Activity Complex (or MAC, as residents know it) packed with ways to have fun and stay fit. There are batting cages, trampolines, lap lanes for swimming, a leisure pool with a slide, a BEAM interactive projector game system for kids, plus a functional fitness area for adults that’s stocked with kettlebells, dumbbells, plyometric boxes, tires and ropes. Oh, and did we mention that the park also has zipline tours and an adventure park, as well as a plaza with splash pads and outdoor fireplaces? There are infinite ways to have fun. 

12. Elk Grove, CA

Historic downtown Elk Grove, CA, is brimming with small-town charm. Nestled about 20 minutes south of Sacramento, Elk Grove is becoming one of the golden state’s favorite suburbs.
Alamy/Matt Gush
Historic downtown Elk Grove, CA, is brimming with small-town charm. Nestled about 20 minutes south of Sacramento, Elk Grove is becoming one of the golden state’s favorite suburbs.

Nestled about 20 minutes south of Sacramento, Elk Grove, CA, is rapidly becoming one of the Golden State’s favorite suburbs — and one of the best places to live in the West. Elk Grove is brimming with small-town charm while simultaneously becoming a powerhouse for industry, home to both Apple and Kaiser Permanente regional headquarters. 

But beyond economics, what earns Elk Grove a spot in our places to live list is its commitment to the health and well-being of its citizens. The city of Elk Grove is steadfast in becoming a leader in environmental stewardship, with an emphasis on sustainable building practices. For example, in 2015, Elk Grove built the Special Waste Collection Center, the first in the country to be powered by solar energy. 

Also proving how much Elk Grove is quickly becoming the place to be is the groundbreaking of a new full-service hospital. Expected to open in 2026, Dignity Health’s Elk Grove Hospital will be a 100-bed center and over 200,000 square feet. In addition, it was recently announced that UC Davis would also be expanding outpatient health care services in Elk Grove, giving patients many options outside Sacramento. 

13. Spokane, WA

Spokane, WA downtown
iStock/benedek

With unparalleled access to outdoor adventures year-round, an eco-consciousness that keeps the city and its surrounding area pristine, and high scores in the education category, Spokane, WA, is one of the best places to live in the West. One of the most affordable places to live on the West Coast, with median house prices just above $363,000, Spokane offers strong salaries to match in a variety of competitive job industries.

For those who love being outside but not so much tromping through the woods, there are nearly two dozen wineries to visit and explore, many within walking distance of one another. Due to its proximity to Canada (less than 100 miles away) and shouting distance to Idaho, Spokane is a city for people who love to get outside and explore. From mountain biking and kayaking to skiing and snowboarding, locals love to take advantage of the gorgeous natural landscapes surrounding them. You’ll want to keep a bathing suit in your trunk because there are 76 lakes within an hour’s drive of Spokane.  

Additionally, the city has excellent education ratings, and Spokane stands out as a great place to raise kids. An area known for its volunteerism and resident involvement, Spokane is a thriving place to become part of a community and thrive in your personal and professional life. 

14. Boise, ID

A view of downtown Boise, ID, which ranks #24 in the Livability Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S.

A mid-sized city with nearby hot springs and ski resorts, plus a river running right through town, the secret’s out about Boise, ID, which has been experiencing a boom in recent years. 

Tucked in the southwestern pocket of Idaho, Boise has evolved from a flyover city to a bustling metro with a population of nearly 250,000 and a diverse mix of tech, agribusiness and manufacturing companies along with an educated workforce to support them, making this city an excellent place for business

Boise ranks high for its commitment to the environment, too: It’s nicknamed the “City of Trees,” and local leaders are aiming to be carbon neutral by 2050. After all, the outdoors are cherished here. During shoulder seasons, ambitious residents could ski, play a round of golf and go fishing all on the same day. As a bonus, residents have home teams to cheer for, from the Boise State Broncos, who play on the iconic blue turf at Albertsons Stadium, to the Idaho Steelheads minor league hockey team. 

But perhaps the tourism board describes life in Boise the best: You’ll find an unexpected Western city that’s part refined, part rugged. 

15. Colorado Springs, CO

Colorado Springs, CO aerial shot
iStock/Jacob Boomsma
An aerial view of Colorado Springs, CO, which ranks #9 in the Livability Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S.

The summit of Pikes Peak, just west of Colorado Springs, CO, inspired Katharine Lee Bates to pen “America the Beautiful.” So let’s just say Colorado Springs is not just one of the best places to live in the West but also one of the most scenic and inspiring. Don’t just take our word for it. Locals and residents alike can take The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway to the peak’s summit, a super scenic adventure in the fall when the leaves change colors. Go ahead and add the “Oh beautiful, for spacious skies…” jingle to your TikTok. 

All are welcome in this southern Colorado city, from those going for gold who train at the Olympic Training Center to members of the U.S. Army and Air Force (there are five military installations here) to families taking advantage of all the fun things to do in the region. Colorado Springs is also an academic city, with top-rated schools and several colleges like the University of Colorado’s Colorado Spring campus and Colorado College, a private liberal arts school.

Some of the biggest employers in the greater Pikes Peak region include Lockheed Martin, Team USA, Progressive Insurance and Microchip. Aerospace and defense, health care and medtech, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing are all key industries in the region. With a strong network of support for entrepreneurs, Colorado Springs is also a great place for military veterans who want to stage their “second acts” and launch their own companies. The Springs also come with a lower cost of living than other parts of Colorado. 

Locals also have quite the backyard playground in Colorado Springs. Garden of the Gods has awe-inspiring crimson formations that jut out in blue skies and come in interesting shapes, like spires, “Kissing Camels,” and a “Sleeping Giant.” Residents also have easy access to 375 miles of trails and even mingle with Olympic athletes in training at the Manitou Incline, a retired cog railway track with a 2,000-foot elevation gain. 

Downtown Colorado Springs is a thriving district with restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and Acacia Park, which has equipment for children of all ability levels and lots of fun, cutting-edge playground equipment that looks like it belongs on the set of American Ninja Warrior.

16. Henderson, NV

Henderson NV downtown
iStock/DenisTangneyJr

The lights flash, and the slot machines whir and jingle on the Las Vegas Strip, but go a bit further south, and you’ll really hit the jackpot in Henderson, NV. As Nevada’s second-largest city, Henderson is one of the best places to live in the West and boasts a strong economy, safe neighborhoods, and award-winning parks and recreation programs.

With championship golf, lakefront homes, and a European-style village, Lake Las Vegas is among the many well-designed master communities in Henderson, which are all close to parks and trails. The city boasts seven gorgeous golf courses, easy access to Lake Mead Recreation Area, and an abundance of hiking trails. If the outdoors isn’t your thing, Henderson has several shopping centers, delicious dining options, and epic resorts and spas like the District at Green Valley Ranch, where residents can kick back and relax. In addition, Henderson residents have their own local hangout: The Water Street District, which has a classic Vegas vibe and casinos, craft brew pubs, local restaurants, a snow cone shack, and the City Lights Art Gallery.

Henderson’s economy is only getting more robust, with Google picking the city for its 64-acre data center and Haas Automation expanding its manufacturing operations here. One of the most interesting recent developments is the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters and Intermountain Health Performance Center, which has an indoor field house with an indoor practice field and a theater and field center expected to be a popular venue for public events.

17. Clovis, CA

A historic Clovis neon sign hangs over a street in Clovis, California.
iStock/MattGush  
A historic Clovis neon sign hangs over a street in Clovis, California.

Located east of Fresno in the San Joaquin Valley, Clovis, CA, will charm you with its old-town feel and reel you in with its commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. Established as a freight stop on the San Joaquin Valley Railroad, Clovis’ main drag (or Old Town, as it’s known) looks as though you’re taking a step back in time, with cobblestone streets and old-fashioned storefronts. But, of course, while Clovis relishes their Old West history, they fully embrace being forward thinkers. 

Though many communities in California take environmentalism seriously, a top reason why Clovis is one of the best places to live in the West is its thorough plans to ensure that the city is sustainable with its Urban Greening Master Plan. This plan identifies plans for bicycle transportation, urban forest management, improved air and water, and generally ensuring Clovis is a healthier city in the future. In addition to environmental health, Clovis is a great place to take care of your physical health. You’ll have access to its impressive number of doctors (250 physicians per 100,000 residents, which lands it in the top 50% of California cities), a level 1 trauma center hospital, and nearby Fresno’s health care facilities.  

18. Tacoma, WA

iStock/halbergman

Tacoma, WA, is one of the best places to live in the West, thanks to the city’s abundance of green spaces, an impressive roster of museums and a prime location less than 35 miles from Seattle. Tacoma, Washington’s second-largest metropolis, is situated on Puget Sound’s banks, surrounded by the Pacific Northwest’s natural splendor. That gives its 222,374 residents (and counting) easy access to outdoor pursuits such as boating, fishing, swimming, hiking and biking.

Tacoma has more than 80 parks and recreational properties encompassing 2,960 acres, more than 8 miles of beaches and shoreline, and 46 kid-pleasing playgrounds. One favorite is Point Defiance Park, a sprawling 760-acre wonderland tucked away at the city’s northern tip with an old-growth forest, a zoo and aquarium, rose and rhododendron gardens, and beaches where you can spot seals and other wild creatures. Locals also love the Ruston Way waterfront, a 2-mile paved pedestrian walkway that connects downtown Tacoma to Point Defiance.

Ranking high in the environment category, Tacoma residents are passionate about sustainability and minimizing their impact on local, national and global ecosystems. As a result, the city’s 2023 Climate Action Plan, which went into effect in January 2022, includes commitments to reduce the city’s municipal carbon footprint and increase the availability of green transportation, jobs and affordable housing.

While Seattle’s arts scene often steals the spotlight, Tacoma residents don’t have to travel outside city limits to see exhibits from well-known creatives. At the Museum of Glass, visitors and locals can watch artists in action in the world’s largest hot shop amphitheater and admire the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, the famous pedestrian walkway featuring installations by famed glass artist and Tacoma native Dale Chihuly. Other stroll-worthy cultural institutions include America’s Car Museum and the Tacoma Art Museum.

Tacoma’s excellent schools also draw higher-education seekers to the city. For example, downtown’s University of Washington Tacoma is the largest public university in town and earns favor from students for its affordable tuition compared to other colleges in the West. Meanwhile, Pacific Lutheran University and the University of Puget Sound are highly-ranked private institutions known for their liberal arts programs.

19. Eugene, OR

Aerial view of Eugene Oregon and Willamette River
iStock.com/DianeBentleyRaymond
Aerial view of Eugene Oregon with the Willamette River snaking its way through downtown Eugene. Iconic buildings including University Satdium and Knight Center in view.

Eugene, OR, is nestled on the southern side of the Willamette Valley, less than two hours from Portland. From access to a bounty of natural landscapes and oodles of things to do, Eugene has much to offer residents, making it one of the best places to live in the West.

Ranking high in the transportation category, the city has earned a bicycle-friendly reputation for its bountiful cycling infrastructure, which includes 187 miles of on-street bicycle lanes and 71 miles of signed bikeways and neighborhood greenways. Don’t have your own ride? Don’t fret — Eugene also has a bike-share system with 40 self-serve stations for pick up and drop off. 

Other ways to get around Eugene include an easy-to-navigate and reliable Lane Transit District (LTD) bus system. The buses are also equipped with bike racks for those who want to travel on two wheels for part of their journey. Biking, walking and using the bus system are ways the city encourages its more than 177,250 residents to reduce their carbon footprint, which is why Eugene earns high praise for its longstanding climate action efforts. In addition, instead of relying on pollution–producing power plants, Eugene gets about 80% of its power from carbon-free hydroelectric energy (the other 20% comes from renewable sources).

Plentiful outdoor pursuits make Eugene a great home base for those who enjoy fresh-air activities. Options include hiking to the summit of Spencer Butte to take in panoramic sights of the forest-blanketed Willamette Valley, spotting winged beauties at the Cascades Raptor Center, and stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking at Alton Baker Park. In the winter, skiers and snowboarders flock to Willamette Pass, about an hour’s drive from Eugene, where more than 430 inches of annual snowfall blankets 555 acres of lift-served trails. 

Eugene is home to the University of Oregon (go Ducks!), which offers well-known programs in education, psychology, environmental law, creative writing and other fields. In addition, several other higher-education institutions draw energetic crowds of students and young professionals to the city.

20. Reno, NV

Reno skyline
Reno-Sparks Convention & Visitors Authority

With excellent public art, a craft beer scene, a bustling riverwalk and touring concerts taking the stage at casinos, Reno, NV, has just about everything you need in a city. And the city really lives up to its nickname as the “Biggest Little City in the World!” And for escapes into nature, residents are less than an hour away from Tahoe’s turquoise lakes and snowy slopes. You can have it all in Reno, so it’s no surprise that the city is one of the best places to live in the West. 

Remote workers, entrepreneurs, young families and retirees are all recognizing the appeal of this Nevada region. With concentrated efforts to become less reliant on the gaming industry, the Reno area has robust robotics education and extracurriculars for its K-12 students. Additionally, Reno is home to Tesla’s Gigafactory, which provides high-paying jobs to residents.

The city is made up of several distinct neighborhoods, including the Arch District, Riverwalk and Midtown areas. The cost of living in Reno is manageable for people in all stages of life, and the city has become a hot spot for talented remote workers. Reno is an artsy town, too, with institutions like the Nevada Museum of Art plus a public art scene made up of retired Burning Man pieces and large-scale murals. Residents can take advantage of all the free festivals and events Reno offers, like watching freestyle and competitive whitewater kayaking at the Reno River Festival or checking out tons of shows, exhibits and other performances at the annual Artown festival held each July. 

21. Provo, UT

Downtown view in Provo UT
iStock/DenisTangneyJr
Provo is the third-largest city in Utah, United States. It is 43 miles south of Salt Lake City along the Wasatch Front. Provo is the largest city and county seat of Utah County.

If you dream of moving to the mountains, you might want to head to Provo, UT, before everyone else. It’s no mystery as to why Provo has landed a title as one of the best places to live in the West — just look at a picture of the city, which is nestled in the Wasatch Mountains and near Utah Lake. 

Beyond its picturesque setting (and ample skiing opportunities), Provo is becoming quite the tech powerhouse and is part of the greater Silicon Slopes area.

Provo is also incredibly safe for a city of its size. In fact, it’s one of the safest metropolitan areas in the country. It also lives up to its nickname as the “Happy Valley,” and residents have a high overall state of well-being. They can participate in a laundry list of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, climbing, rafting, fishing and skiing. Additionally, the third-largest city in Utah is incredibly family-oriented and is an excellent spot for young families to put down roots. 

22. Missoula, MT

Outdoor activities in Missoula, MT, are limitless, from hiking to skiing to fly fishing, shown here. Missoula is one of the best places to live in the U.S.
iStock/johnrandallalves
Outdoor activities in Missoula, MT, are limitless, from hiking to skiing to fly fishing, shown here. Missoula is one of the best places to live in the U.S.

Located in the Northern Rockies, Missoula, MT, is a giant playground for outdoor lovers. As one of the best places to live in the West, Missoula is surrounded by wilderness areas and located at the confluence of three rivers, so the adventures are limitless, from hiking to skiing to floating the river and, of course, fly fishing. Did you know you can surf in this landlocked state, too? The manmade Brennan’s Wave rolls along the Clark Fork River. Afterward, residents have an all-natural hot tub to soak sore muscles in: Lolo Hot Springs is reachable in under an hour. 

In addition to all of that world-class recreation, Missoula has an impressive arts and culture scene, with institutions like the Missoula Art Museum and the Missoula Symphony, as well as film festivals, author chats at independent bookstores and an Art Deco-style movie theater.  

Friendly neighbors, wide-open spaces and all kinds of career opportunities welcome those who move here. Missoula is home to the University of Montana, the state’s flagship university, and the dynamic economy is made up of creative professions, high-tech jobs and a growing biosciences sector, which the Montana Bioscience Cluster Initiative supports.

Missoula has retained a small-town atmosphere with a population of roughly 75,000. The economy is stable and growing, the quality of life is off the charts, and it’s a great place to raise a family — need we say more?

23. St. George, UT

St. George is a city in and the county seat of Washington County, Utah.

If you want to raise your family amidst sweeping western landscapes and breathtaking national parks, look no further than St. George, UT. With an increasing percentage of children accounting for the growing population count, it should come as no surprise that this part of southern Utah boasts a low crime rate and some of the top-ranking schools in the state. Living here also allows residents to easily take day or weekend trips to places like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon. 

Thanks to its mesmerizing desert landscapes, canyons, and wildlife, outdoor enthusiasts are smitten with St. George. Panoramic views and ruby-red rocks are just the start of this area’s lengthy list of accolades. Hiking, biking, and fishing are just a few reasons people come to St. George, and they use it as a home base for trips to nearby state and national parks. 

If you prefer a more city-centric lifestyle, you can find plenty to enjoy here too. The historic downtown is pleasantly walkable and home to innumerable eateries and quaint local shops, making it a wonderful place to explore on foot with family and friends. Take a peek at the city calendar if you’re looking for something special to do. On any given night, you will likely find a slew of events and activities that draw in residents and tourists alike. Families will also appreciate the countless hotspots for children to enjoy, such as the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site and St. George Children’s Museum. 

24. Billings, MT

A city view at sunset time in Billings, Montana.
iStock/peeterv
A city view at sunset time in Billings, Montana.

Billings, MT, might be the biggest city in the state, but there’s more to this booming location than its headcount. Known throughout the region for its magnificent landscapes and sunsets that will take your breath away, Billings has seen a remarkable uptick in new residents over the last few years. It’s not surprising given the low cost of living and high quality of life — especially for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors as much as possible. 

You could write a book with all the recreational opportunities in and around Billings. But we would suggest some of the highlights include places like Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, a mere 90 miles south of the city with miles of hiking trails and scenery that will make you want to camp there indefinitely. You could also fashion an entire vacation around what the city calls “the historic landmarks in that tell the story of southeastern Montana,” schedule an overnight stay at a local dude ranch or spend a day exploring The Rimrocks (70-million-year-old sandstone cliffs for those who are unacquainted). 

When you’re ready to set aside your boots and hoof it around the city center, you’ll find all manner of modern conveniences and amenities intermingling with symbols of this authentic Western frontier. State-of-the-art hospitals and careers in healthcare, trade and distribution abound, as well as a flourishing local food and craft brew scene. If you ask a local for recommendations on where to grab a bite, be prepared to hear all about The Burger Dive, a quirky little spot that earned the title of “World Burger Champion” in 2016. You haven’t lived until you’ve had their huckleberry burger. 

25. Greeley, CO

Public Art in Greeley, CO
Greeley
Created by Armando Silva, this mural is on 9th Avenue and 7th Street in Greeley, Colo.

The votes are in, and Greeley, CO, is hanging out at the top of the list of places to live in the great state of Colorado. Residents love the peace of mind that comes from having easy access to world-class healthcare, high-ranking schools, and an assortment of entertainment and outdoor amenities. It doesn’t hurt that the booming economy in the area is attracting all manner of new opportunities for the community. 

Affordability is one of the primary draws to Greeley. With a lower cost of living than the national average, residents have more freedom to indulge in vacations to places like Denver, Cheyenne, Rocky Mountain National Park, or several renowned ski resorts, all of which are within a short day’s drive from the heart of the city. 

Young adults make up a good percentage of the population, which makes sense given the presence of the University of Northern Colorado. In addition to keeping the city young, vibrant, and active, this perk affords the city new and innovative restaurants, bars and coffee shops as well as live events, activities and entertainment throughout the year. You’ll love exploring breweries like Broken Plow before hopping over to a live musical performance at Moxi Theater. Have an itch for something a little classier? Indulge in season tickets to the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra or spend the evening wining and dining at The Greeley Chophouse. 

Best Placesto Live in the West Map

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