By
Nina Ruggiero, Travel+Leisure
For better or for worse, we know
you love your hometown. But sometimes we all start to wonder: Is the
grass really greener elsewhere?
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Today, the U.S. News & World Report rankings are here with a definitive answer to that age-old question.
Their conclusion? Yes, it most certainly is–unless you're lucky enough to live in Austin.
The trendy Texas city was ranked
the number one place to live in the United States in 2017, beating out
99 contending metro areas. According to the report, "to make the top of
the list, a place had to have good value, be a desirable place to live,
have a strong job market and a high quality of life."
Austin was rated favorably in all categories, thanks to its growing job market, relative affordability and popularity–about 50 people move there every day. The music scene, vibrant culture, and pleasant weather didn't hurt its standings, either.
But before you yellow-belly
Yankees get your knickers in a knot, know ATX isn't the only U.S. hot
spot taking home bragging rights this year. Here are the top 10.
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1. Austin, Texas
It's not easy making a living as
an entertainer in Austin, but the "Live Music Capital of the World" is
ideal for those looking to sit back and take in the sounds of the scene.
America's number one city is also steeped in history and buzzing with
college life thanks to the University of Texas at Austin.
Metro population: 1,889,094
2. Denver, Colorado
Residents of the Mile High City
are described as "ambitious, progressive-minded fitness fanatics," which
makes sense, considering the easy access to stunning mountain
trails–and legal marijuana.
Metro population: 2,703,972
Average annual salary: $54,450
Average monthly rent: $1,049
3. San Jose, California
With a mix of innovative tech
campuses, high-rises, and suburbs, this Silicon Valley hot spot is
high-tech, quirky, and outdoorsy all at once.
Metro population: 1,925,706
Average annual salary: $78,620
Average monthly rent: $1,697
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4. Washington, D.C.
Our nation's great capital comes
with the benefits of a big city, including extensive public transit and
world class museums, but it's also clean and has plenty of public
parks.
Metro population: 5,949,403
Average annual salary: $65,910
Average monthly rent: $1,498
5. Fayetteville, Arkansas
Arkansas' third-largest city is
swiftly growing, but it has remained true to its friendly,
community-oriented roots. The area is where Wal-Mart and Tyson got their
start.
Metro population: 493,095
Average annual salary: $43,570
Average monthly rent: $738
6. Seattle, Washington
Surrounded by mountains and
water, Seattle's gorgeous scenery gives it a boost. Being surrounded by
nature also results in positive vibes and chill nightlife.
Metro population: 3,614,361
Average annual salary: $59,060
Average monthly rent: $1,158
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7. Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina
The Triangle (Raleigh, Durham,
and Chapel Hill) boasts strong job growth, especially within research
and technology, a lively dining scene flowing with craft beer, and
exciting college rivalries.
Metro population: 1,750,865
Average annual salary: $51,150
Average monthly rent: $912
8. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston's food and arts scene, its history and its exceptional higher-learning institutions help land the city in the top 10.
Metro population: 4,694,565
Average annual salary: $62,070
Average monthly rent: $1,236
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9. Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines is touted as a great place to raise a family due to its festivals, locally-owned businesses, and small town feel.
Metro population: 601,187
Average annual salary: $47,170
Average monthly rent: $802
10. Salt Lake City, Utah
Utah's capital scores big points for outdoor fun, thanks to its five national parks and top-of-the-line ski resorts.
Metro population: 2,325,531
Average annual salary: $44,752
Average monthly rent: $900
