Where to Live Now
Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Northeast
Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Northeast
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These 25 Northeastern cities each have something special to offer.
The Northeastern pocket of the United States boasts a shockingly impressive diversity in food, culture, and landscape. From the iconic fisheries of Maine and farmlands of Pennsylvania to the City That Never Sleeps, the Northeast is full of attractions, amenities and aesthetics that draw people in from all around the world. About 85 percent of the region’s residents live in urban settings, but you can also find beautiful farmlands, peaceful beach communities and plenty of suburbs.
1. Clifton, New Jersey
Located just 18 miles outside New York City, Clifton, NJ, is much more than just a bedroom commuter community. Beyond living in proximity to all of the amenities that the city has to offer (only two trains or one bus ride away, to be exact), Clifton has its own vast set of amenities that are uniquely its own. The outstanding arts scene, which includes the Clifton Arts Center and the Hamilton House Museum, and a whopping 39 parks are just a few of the things that make Clifton one of the best places to live in the Northeast.
And despite being used as a filming location for The Sopranos during its run, Clifton has crime rates well below the national average, making it an attractive spot for those who want to be nestled in a safe neighborhood while still enjoying the amenities of a major metropolitan area for weekend trips or commuting for a hybrid job. This city of just under 90,000 people has a relatively low cost of living and a robust public school system. Several highly regarded schools are in the area, and residents can choose between several public and private offerings, making it an excellent spot for young families.
In addition, Clifton maintains a close-knit community and hosts various annual events and festivals. Plus, the population here is diverse. Clifton is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country, and residents from all walks of life feel right at home.
2. Warwick, Rhode Island
Located in the heart of the Ocean State and along Narragansett Bay, Warwick, RI, is one of the best places to live in the Northeast. Locals have access to nearly 40 miles of glorious coastline with everything coastal dreams are made of, from clam chowder stops to picturesque lighthouses and sandy beaches to stroll.
Just outside of Providence, Warwick is the second-largest city in Rhode Island. The town is a historically significant spot, too. Warwick is the site of the Gaspee Affair, one of America’s first acts of rebellion against the British government during the lead-up to the Revolution.
Good schools, safe neighborhoods and easy access to big cities along the eastern seaboard all contribute to the quality of life in Warwick. Additionally, Warwick is within a 75-mile radius of two-thirds of New England’s population, making the city very accessible. In addition, the city comprises 30 unique villages, and residents have a penchant for civic engagement.
3. Cranston, Rhode Island
Cranston, RI, is one of the best places to live in the Northeast due to its suburban feel, outdoor recreation opportunities and strong business community. This city within Rhode Island’s Providence County also has a prime public school district with 15 elementary schools, four middle schools, four high schools and an early childhood center. Parks and trails are plentiful, and Providence is just a 15-minute drive away.
Cranston’s neighborhoods reflect various aspects of the city, and there are plenty of different places to choose from. Edgewood has many Victorian-era homes, tree-lined streets and the Edgewood Yacht Club. Pawtuxet Village, a seaside enclave, is one of the oldest communities in New England. History buffs will appreciate how much of Cranston’s architectural past still stands. Among other historic places, Governor Sprague Mansion was once the residence of the politically and financially prominent Sprague family and the birthplace of Cranston Print Works and two Rhode Island governors; it is now the headquarters for the Cranston Historical Society.
4. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
With world-class museums, pro sports teams to cheer for and a strong economy leading the way in robotics, AI, cybersecurity and more, it’s no wonder why nearly 300,000 people know that Pittsburgh, PA, is a great place to call home.
As one of the best places to live in the Northeast, those who move here have their pick of 90 neighborhoods with their own unique personalities. Pittsburgh gets a standing ovation for its remarkable arts and culture scene and claims to be the top city in the country when it comes to direct spending on the arts. The robust arts and culture scene is made up of more than 30 museums, including the August Wilson African American Culture Center, which honors Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson, and the Andy Warhol Museum, which celebrates Pittsburgh’s native son and king of pop art. In addition, the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh include three additional museums dedicated to art, science and natural history.
No doubt, Pittsburgh is a city of innovators. The first cable suspension bridge, polio vaccine, Ferris wheel and emoticon — a smiley face 🙂 — can all be traced back to Pittsburgh. That spirit of entrepreneurship remains intact today, with more than 70 clean-tech companies doing business here.
5. Jersey City, New Jersey
Jersey City, NJ — the oldest city in the Garden State — combines old and new to create a perfect blend of history, culture and outdoor activity. Separated by the Hudson River, Jersey City neighbors Manhattan, and this town of more than 268,000 offers incredible views of the New York City skyline without the frenetic energy, earning it the nickname “Chilltown.” This homier, more laid-back neighbor provides easy access to New York while boasting incredible amenities of its own. Jersey City is one of the best places to live in the Northeast because of the eclectic food scene, a robust financial district (nicknamed Wall Street West), and incredible parks and waterfronts.
Downtown has a wide variety of restaurants and nightlife options. The revitalized Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza offers a variety of unique dining options in a walkable, quaint atmosphere. Local artisans bring the creative community together at the popular Night Market. With loads of independent coffee shops, coffee enthusiasts will undoubtedly feel at home here, and remote workers can find somewhere to set up shop for a change in scenery.
Jersey City residents are never far from incredible history and outdoor adventures. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are only a short ferry ride away, two of the U.S.’s most iconic landmarks. Liberty State Park, a 1,200-acre oasis of wildlife, gardens, and biking and walking paths is only one of many parks that envelop this town. Even more? Jersey City is surrounded by both the Hudson and Hackensack Rivers, so residents can also explore the city’s exciting waterfront culture.
6. Norwalk, Connecticut
A coastal city in southern Fairfield County, Norwalk, CT, is an excellent place for work and daily living. The city of more than 91,000 offers something for all its residents, and it’s easy to see why Norwalk is one of the best places to live in the Northeast.
Along the Long Island Sound, Norwalk provides quick and easy access to New York City. Commuters can travel to and from four Metro-North Railroad stations or drive via the Merritt Parkway, Route 7 or I-95. However, there is no need to leave home with so much culture at their fingertips.
Norwalk residents maintain their tight-knit community thanks to a variety of annual community events and festivals, including the Norwalk Oyster Festival and the SoNo Arts Festival. SoNo, the acronym for South Norwalk, is a buzzing district with restaurants, retail and nightlife. Plus, beaches, parks and history abound in Norwalk, meaning there are plenty of ways to stay close to home and explore all this cozy Connecticut city offers.
7. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Bethlehem, PA, may be known as the “Christmas City” to tourists, but the more than 75,000 residents who call this Eastern Pennsylvania city home know that it’s one of the best places to live in the Northeast all year long.
Part of Bethlehem’s magic is its long history of innovation, with the Moravians developing the colonies’ first public water system in the mid-1700s all the way up to today’s impressive redevelopment of the SteelStacks. Once a manufacturer that made iron rail for railroads, the SteelStacks have been transformed into a community anchor for locals to come together and celebrate festivals, laugh at comedy shows, marvel at art exhibits and grab a bite to eat with friends.
Education is also a top priority in Bethlehem, with excellent public and private schools plus 11 colleges in the Lehigh Valley that award 10,000 degrees annually across a breadth of disciplines. In addition, the region has made a name for itself in manufacturing, with everything from dog food to crayons and Mack Trucks and marshmallow Peeps made here. Other industries with a stronghold include business services, health care, transportation and logistics.
Bethlehem residents feel the love all year as this tight-knit community promotes togetherness and has a welcoming vibe for newcomers. But that spirit really comes alive during the holiday season. The German-style Christkindlmarkt Market, 81-foot-tall steel “Star of Bethlehem,” and lit evergreens all add to Bethlehem’s reputation as the jolliest city in the country.
8. Lowell, Massachusetts
Lowell, MA, was established entirely to produce textiles during the Industrial Revolution, and at its peak, there were 20 mills in operation in 1836. But once the industry shifted to the south in the late 19th century, the city was forced to reckon with its economic future. Today, the city of Lowell is one of the best places to live in the Northeast because it is able to weave its industrial history into modern amenities. A perfect example is Lowell National Historic Park, a trail system where visitors can meander along the canal waterways. Old mills have also been refurbished into modern apartments at the center of all the action in town.
In addition to the abundant history on every corner, Lowell has numerous museums, like the New England Quilt Museum, the Whistler House Museum of Art and the Boott Cotton Mills Museum. Adding to the rich culture of Lowell are two higher education institutions — UMass Lowell and Middlesex Community College, which has part of its campus in Lowell.
9. Cheektowaga, New York
Cheektowaga, NY, is garnering attention as one of the best places to live in the Northeast, and for good reason. With a population of 76,482, this second-largest suburb of Buffalo offers one of the most accessible locations in the region. Cheektowaga is just a short commute into downtown Buffalo and a 20-minute drive to Niagara Falls. Additionally, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport is in Cheektowaga, so extended travel is easy.
What makes Cheektowaga such a livable city lies much more at the heart of this town. The people here are less focused on hip eateries (although there’s lots to eat!) and more on getting to know their neighbors and caring for one another. Cheektowaga is built on hardworking, blue-collar roots and offers a classically friendly suburb with affordable homes that make the sweet life accessible to most.
There’s always lots to do here as well. This community embraces the snowy winters with activities like ice skating in Cheektowaga Town Park and bowling leagues. When winter thaws, Cheektowaga offers a gorgeous park system with outdoor fields, courts, trails, and recreational programming. Summer is filled with the always popular church and community festivals. In addition, families should take advantage of the very active Cheektowaga Youth and Recreational Services, which offer amazing and affordable summer camps.
10. Nashua, New Hampshire
Nashua, NH, is a small, eclectic and charming town that is far enough from Boston to feel removed from the hustle of the city — and its cost of living — but doesn’t feel remote. Ranking high in safety and education in our index, Nashua has a ready supply of retail, manufacturing, education, health care and defense jobs, making it a great place to live in the Northeast. In addition, the town embraces the arts, with public installations, a volunteer arts services organization, a co-op craftsmen’s gallery right on Main Street, and a Center for the Arts that hosts everything from touring theater to live music and comedy. Additionally, with six college campuses nearby, there’s always a performance, festival or event to attend.
Located at the confluence of the Merrimack and Nashua rivers, there are gorgeous walking and bike paths to explore the beautiful scenery in and around the city. When residents find they need some time away, they’re just 50 miles to the Atlantic Ocean and 20 miles from a regional airport in Manchester that connects them to the rest of the country. The proximity of both cities and gorgeous outdoor space to explore make it difficult to ignore the draw of Nashua.
And if all that wasn’t enough, Nashua offers a variety of excellent housing options, from cute apartments and condos to townhouses and multiple-bedroom homes. Plus, the average home value in Nashua is $356,203.
11. Worcester, Massachusetts
Home to 35,000 students (nestled in a population of about 200,000 total), Worcester, MA, is what you might call the quintessential college town — and it’s embracing the role quite nicely. Located within city limits are eight (yes, eight) higher-ed institutions, including College of the Holy Cross, Clark University, UMass Medical School and Worcester Polytechnic Institution.
There are several significant research and biotech firms in the region, which is not altogether surprising. Worcester is known for being a city that innovates — the birth control pill and the rocket were both invented here.
To entertain and retain future graduates and young professionals alike, Worcester offers amenities that rival cities twice its size, like the Worcester Art Museum, Mechanics Hall and four minor-league sports teams. Not to mention its growing food scenes in neighborhoods like Shrewsbury Street, Park Ave and The Canal District. All of these incredible amenities make it easy to see why Worcester is one of the best places to live in the Northeast.
12. Danbury, Connecticut
Located in Western Connecticut, Danbury combines almost everything associated with a major city with a cozy New England feel, including a variety of dining, entertainment and shopping options. This cozy city offers something fun for the nearly 87,000 people who call Danbury home, so it’s easy to see why it is one of the best places to live in the Northeast.
Coupled with all of the entertainment options to choose from are the city’s parks, lakes and trails that make it easy to get out into nature. Seriously. Danbury residents mean business when it comes to exploring the great outdoors. The Ives Trail Greenway runs partly through the city and connects to Danbury’s Wooster Mountain State Park, Tarrywile Park and Wiedel Meadows. Golfers can head to Richter Park Golf Course, a 118-hole, Par 71 course with an Edward Ryder design. If you’ve got a four-legged friend, check out Bear Mountain Reservation, a 140-acre park that is pet-friendly and has hiking trails of various lengths and routes, including one leading to Candlewood Lake. Along with other public parks in Danbury, Lake Kenosia Park makes for a nice picnic spot. It has benches, a spray park, a playground and soccer fields (permit required).
Danbury is also linked to the Metro-North Railroad, with its own branch having to-and-from stops, including Bethel, Wilton and South Norwalk, and by car via Route 7 and I-84. And even though it’s easy to get out of town, there’s plenty to do right at home. As a result, Danbury residents don’t have to head to neighboring New York for a fun day or night out. Instead, catch a show at either Musicals at Richter or the Palace Danbury Theatre. A love of sports is also fairly common in Danbury, and Danbury Sports Dome is the perfect place to hone your skills.
Danbury is ultra-family-friendly and offers plenty of ways to keep the kiddos entertained. The Danbury Ice Arena offers public skating and hockey programs, some of which are youth-related. It’s also home to the Danbury Hat Tricks ice hockey team. In addition, Thrillz Adventure Park offers families some friendly competition through various obstacles, including a rolling log, a slippery slide and a 3D rock climbing wall.
The quality of life here is unparalleled, and whether they are working hard or having fun, Danbury residents wear many hats. No, seriously. Danbury’s nickname is “Hat City,” which originated from the city’s hat-making industry that grew so much by the 1850s that Danbury was referred to as “The Hat Capital of the World.”
13. Fall River, Massachusetts
An idyllic small city in the Providence metro area, Fall River, MA, is quintessential New England: a textile mill history, beautiful foliage in the fall and, of course, a mysterious murder trial that people still talk about over 100 years later. Fall River was home to the infamous Lizzie Borden, who was acquitted of the murder of her father and stepmother (and whose rhyme we’ve likely all chanted at a sleepover). Visitors from all over the country are still fascinated by this case, and the city has leaned into its haunted past with the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast Museum (stay there if you dare).
Beyond 19th-century murder cases, Fall River is known for being a Portuguese immigration hub. Fall River has the largest Portuguese population percentage-wise in the entire country, and about half of the city has roots in Portugal. (Unsurprisingly, you’ll have your pick of Portuguese restaurants.)
To top off all of this exciting history and culture, another thing that makes Fall River one of the best places to live in the U.S. is its proximity to higher-ed institutions like Bristol Community College and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.
Fall River is one of the most affordable places to live in Massachusetts and has a relatively low cost of living compared to other cities in the state. The median home value is just $363,887. Residents of this cozy city also have access to ample outdoor spaces. Surrounded by natural beauty, several state parks and wildlife areas are nearby, including access to several beaches and parks along the water, like Fall River Heritage State Park.
14. Manchester, New Hampshire
Once on the map for its textile mill, Manchester, NH, has reinvented itself, and the millyard on Merrimack River is again bustling as a hub for the growing biofabrication industry. The modern industrial space also has restaurants, a brewery, a fitness studio, offices and more. At the Millyard Museum, Manchester residents and tourists alike can learn the whole history of the Amoskeag Millyard, which once churned out 5 million yards of cloth at the end of each work week!
As one of the best places to live in the U.S., Manchester ranks high for education. The city has a dozen colleges and universities that educate 15,500 students annually. The economic outlook in Manchester is strong, too; the federal government awarded the city a $44 million “Build Back Better” grant to move the biofabrication industry forward and create thousands of high-paying jobs for residents.
Manchester also has an artistic side, with gems like the Currier Museum of Art stocked with works from Picasso, Monet and O’Keeffe, and The Palace Theatre hosting musicals.
15. New Haven, Connecticut
New Haven, CT, is known across the country as the home of Yale University. But there’s more to this beautiful city than its history of bright and influential young minds. Locals adore New Haven for its thriving music scene, spectacular pizza, and world-class healthcare. Because the population hovers right around 130,000, the city is often called “right-sized.” Quality food, live music, and art co-exist within a walkable downtown, but the smaller population means less of the usual city hassles, like excess traffic and a sky-high cost of living.
You can’t live in New Haven without cultivating an appreciation for Yale University. Noted as one of the top schools in the region and the entire nation, this idyllic campus is full of ivy-covered buildings and neo-gothic architecture. You can find ample restaurants, theater performances, sporting events, and music shows within walking distance of the university that students, staff, and residents alike seem to enjoy.
Residents can also thank the university for the growing eclectic food scene in the area. From the famous New Haven-style pizza to the beloved Cheese Truck grilled cheese sandwich, you can find a little bit of everything (at every price point) within a few blocks of the city center. Once you’ve stuffed yourself to satisfaction, you can easily spend the day perusing various curious places, such as the Yale University Art Gallery (the oldest college art museum in the country), Shubert Theater or Woolsey Hall.
16. Paterson, New Jersey
Nestled in the northeastern part of the state, Paterson, NJ, is a comfortable city suburb that places you as close as possible to New York without requiring you to pay New York prices. Locals often refer to it as the “Silk City” thanks to its significant role in silk production throughout the latter half of the 19th century. Today, it’s probably more commonly associated as the birthplace of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a popular middleweight boxer.
Because it’s only about 20 miles from New York City, Paterson is often considered a suburb of both New York and New Jersey. It’s served by NJ Transit, which includes commuter rail, bus routes and interstate bus routes, all of which make for an easy commute to and from the Big Apple. Its location and public transportation options make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to build a career in the city without breaking the bank.
The draw of city lights is unmistakable among Paterson residents, but that doesn’t mean you will have difficulty finding things to do outside your doorstep. In addition to popular shopping centers and local eateries, you can spend your days exploring locations like Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, Paterson Museum, Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and Lambert Castle. If you need a bite to eat after hoofing it around the city, enjoy dinner like a local at places like Toros Restaurant for Turkish and Mediterranean dishes or Amore Ristorante for what is arguably some of the finest southern Italian food in the state.
17. Albany, New York
The growing tech scene and entrepreneurial spirit in Albany, NY, make it one of the best places to live in the Northeast. The city is conveniently located just three hours from both New York City and Boston and has long been known as a hub for art, culture and history (the city is more than 400 years old!). In addition, thanks to its proximity to major markets, Albany has become a hotbed for health tech, biotech and information technology talent. The growing number of startups has created various job opportunities for young professionals in the tech field. At the same time, established companies like IBM and General Electric have offices in the greater Albany area. Albany is also one of the more affordable cities in the Northeast, making it an attractive option for those just starting their careers.
Albany offers a wide range of outdoor recreation options for nature lovers. The city is located near the Adirondack Mountains and the Hudson River Valley, which offer hiking, skiing and kayaking. In addition, numerous cultural events and festivals are held throughout the city, such as the Tulip Festival, where more than 100,000 tulips bloom, and residents come together to celebrate Albany’s Dutch heritage. Albany’s mix of affordability, location and recreation make it a unique and fascinating city to call home.
18. Rochester, New York
Rochester, NY, ranks as the third largest city in New York State, but locals will quickly assure you that the community is remarkably close-knit. The sense of deep roots and genuine community attract newcomers and inspire those born in the city to remain and raise their own families in the same place. Paired with its affordability, thriving job market, and host of appealing amenities such as food and entertainment, it’s no wonder “Rochesterians” are pleased as punch to call this community their own.
In addition to being home to large employers such as the University of Rochester, Wegmans Food Markets, Inc., and Rochester General Health System, the city offers a central downtown bursting with excellent restaurants and numerous craft breweries and wine bars. Rochester was named the “best city for beer in the northeast” and has more than two dozen local breweries with enough craft beers to keep you busy for quite some time.
As far as outdoor recreation is concerned, wintertime offers ample opportunity to bundle up and hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding and sledding. During the warmer months, residents often find themselves lingering around the city to enjoy the multitude of outdoor festivals that grace the events calendar every week. If that’s not enough, you can also fill your time with baseball games at Frontier Field or afternoons out on the water at Lake Ontario.
19. Allentown, Pennsylvania
Living in Allentown, PA, affords you a delightfully low cost of living compared to the national average, a slew of family-friendly events and activities, a reliable transportation system, and a bustling sports scene. Given the city’s establishment in 1762, you can enjoy life in the fastest-growing city in Pennsylvania without sacrificing the rich local history that comes with living in such a notable town.
History buffs will want to frequent the city’s numerous museums to discover and unpack its role in state and national history. Be sure to pencil in time to explore the Liberty Bell Museum, where you’ll learn all about the time the renowned Liberty Bell was secretly taken to Allentown to prevent it from being captured by British troops. You can also pop into the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum, which has a phenomenal collection of local papers and items and upwards of 80,000 photographs recounting the story of the community and its residents throughout history.
In addition to its proximity to Reading, Philadelphia and New York City and quality public transportation to get you there, Allentown has a reputation for its love of sports. From Lehigh Valley IronPigs baseball games at Coca-Cola Stadium to indoor football games with the Lehigh Valley Steelhawks, this is definitely one of those places where you’ll overhear conversations about the week’s games wherever you go.
Interested in art and food? Enroll in a painting or pottery class at the Baum School of Art or peruse the 13,000 pieces at Allentown Art Museum before getting a bite to eat at one of the many unique downtown restaurants. Whether you choose to indulge in a little ethnic cuisine, classic American burgers or shareable plates, you’re sure to find a variety of options to satisfy your cravings.
20. Buffalo, New York
Does being the birthplace of the Buffalo wing make Buffalo, NY, one of the best places to live in the Northeast? While some sports fans may say yes, Buffalo natives know the high quality of life, cultural amenities, outdoor recreation and vibrant culinary scene really set the city apart. Located right on the United States-Canada border, Buffalo has long been an access point for anyone looking to visit our friendly neighbors to the north or experience the awe-inspiring majesty of Niagara Falls. In addition, the city’s geographic location means it’s ripe with opportunities for job-seekers: not only is it near the Canadian border, but it’s also within 500 miles of 40 percent of the U.S. population.
There’s no getting around Buffalo’s rough winter weather, but the city absolutely comes alive in the summer. Buffalo earns high marks when it comes to amenities thanks to the city’s abundance of parks, museums and concerts, plus a food scene that offers something for everyone. Buffalo is also home to several professional sports teams, such as the Buffalo Bills of the NFL and the Buffalo Sabres of the NHL. In addition, Buffalo has experienced an influx of young people in recent years for various reasons, including its affordability, and the city has a relatively low cost of living compared to other northeastern cities, with affordable housing and lower taxes, making it a very attractive place for newcomers.
21. Syracuse, New York
Spend the day exploring Syracuse, NY, and you just might find yourself looking through the real estate listings. No one would blame you. This central New York city is surprisingly affordable considering its reputation as the education and healthcare hub of the area, its proximity to the Finger Lakes Region, and its laundry list of extravagant events and activities that keep locals busy all year long.
Because the city is home to Syracuse University and a variety of other research companies, many locals work in the education and healthcare industries. But don’t let that color your assumption of the area’s vibe. Warm, friendly, and eager to drink up everything life offers, this city is home to various concerts, comedy shows, local shops, mouthwatering restaurants and outdoor amenities.
Syracuse is a great spot to call home for those keen on enjoying all four seasons. The Finger Lakes is a hot spot all year long, featuring 11 beautiful lakes and a surprising number of wine trails, breweries, and distilleries. Syracuse is also rich in outdoor adventure, ranging from hiking and biking trails to golf courses and waterfalls. Families with young children also enjoy spending their weekends at places like the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology and the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. In short, there’s more than enough to do for children and adults of all ages.
22. Scranton, Pennsylvania
Besides its fame from the hit television comedy The Office, Scranton, PA, provides residents with a charming sense of community amidst diverse restaurants, coffee shops and parks. The cost of living hovers below the national average, making it appealing to young adults just starting their careers and families wanting to keep their housing costs low.
Scranton may be a smaller town in Pennsylvania, but it has definitely made its mark. The city invented the electric-operated trolley system in the late 1800s, which earned it the nickname “Electric City.” While the system no longer runs, the city is regularly taking steps towards invigorating the historic downtown and providing residents and tourists alike with opportunities to learn more about the area. From weekends at Montage Mountain Ski Resort or the Electric City Trolley Museum to leisurely afternoons perusing local gems like St. Anne’s Basilica, you can always find something to whet your palate.
Speaking of palates, the food won’t disappoint. Cooper’s Seafood, an often frequented pirate ship restaurant, is a beloved local treasure and the city’s oldest restaurant, Coney Island Lunch, arguably the best spot to get a classic American hot dog. And when you’re ready for a little sports action, you can easily spend an evening at Mohegan Sun Arena for an exciting Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins game to shake off the cold of Pennsylvania winters.
23. Erie, Pennsylvania
Ranking on multiple lists as one of the best places to live, Erie, PA, is known for its access to the Great Lakes, a significant draw for outdoor enthusiasts, and its vibrant nightlife. The combination of nature and entertainment has drawn in a variety of newcomers, including young professionals eager to enjoy life in a city rich with arts and culture, as well as a cost of living that clocks in below the national average.
Erie’s young residents appreciate the city’s proximity to larger cities, such as Buffalo, Cleveland and Pittsburgh. But the scenic waterfront, entertainment and activities, and ease of getting outside in all seasons make this an appealing place to be in and of itself. Spend the warm months lounging on the sandy beaches, enjoying a weekend on the water courtesy of Erie Maritime Museum, or kicking back with friends for a little live music. When the cold weather starts to creep in, you’ll have ample opportunity to meet up with your buddies for numerous festivals or dinners at places like Bay House Oyster Bar or Oliver’s Restaurant.
As far as entertainment is concerned, you have a lot of options here. Presque Isle Downs and Casino offers Thoroughbred racing alongside its in-house restaurant, Churchill’s Bourbon & Brew. Erie Playhouse, the 12th oldest community theater in the country, has a calendar packed with performances all year. Fans of history will adore the Erie Maritime Museum and Hagen History Center. And if all that isn’t enough, you could easily create your own weekend itinerary touring the countless vineyards that call this county home.
24. Bridgeport, Connecticut
Located just 60 miles from Manhattan, Bridgeport, CT, is the largest city in Connecticut and is often considered a convenient home base for young adults building their careers in New York City. Compared to the Big Apple and the rest of Connecticut, Bridgeport combines a lower cost of living with a quality of life that appeals to young professionals and growing families. Neighborhood diversity means you can easily choose a location based on price, amenities, and proximity to New York.
Whether you need a place to live while you commute in and out of the city or simply want to enjoy a lifestyle rich in scenic views and fun-filled activities, Bridgeport has a lot to offer. St. Mary’s-by-the-Sea is an idyllic park primed for birdwatching and stunning Long Island Sound and Black Rock Harbor views. Families often frequent Beardsley Zoo, the only AZA-accredited zoo in the state. You can also spend a cool autumn morning exploring Black Rock Harbor Light, a centuries-old lighthouse that began operating in 1808. If you need an indoor activity or two, consider the Barnum Museum, where you can learn all there is to know about P.T. Barnum and his founding of Barnum & Bailey Circus.
Need to get a bite (or drink) after all those adventures? Hit up Fifth State Distillery for award-winning craft spirits, Ralph’ n’ Rich’s for authentic Italian dishes, or Hub and Spoke for an intimate tavern vibe with everything from brunch to seafood. You’ll likely see a mix of professionals and students, as the city is also home to the University of Bridgeport and Housatonic Community College.
25. Trenton, New Jersey
Have you ever thought about moving to Trenton, NJ? You aren’t alone. With a head count hovering around 90,000, Trenton is the fifth largest and capital city of New Jersey. From bars and parks to convenient transportation to and from New York City and Philadelphia, Trenton is well worth a look if you find yourself in the market to relocate.
Despite its proximity to two of the region’s most bustling urban centers, Trenton actually boasts a lower cost of living than the national average. You’ll also find plenty to do. History buffs will love the city’s storied role in American history. Old Barracks Museum and Trenton Battle Monument educate visitors on the significance of the area’s role during the Revolutionary War (spoiler alert: it played host to George Washington himself). You can use the expansive public transit service to explore these sites and cultural gems like the New Jersey State Museum and Artworks Trenton.
When you’re ready to breathe fresh air, hop on over to one of the city’s many popular parks, such as Cadwalader Park. With scenic landscapes, numerous walking paths, and ample green space, this is an excellent spot for planning a picnic, playing frisbee, or going for a leisurely stroll. You can also stick around for the annual Trenton Pork Roll Festival, a fun-filled event for the whole family that celebrates the community’s culinary legacy amidst live music and a host of other amusing entertainment and activities.
