2023 Best Cities to Raise a Family in America

• City in California

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  Rating 4.24 out of 5  183 reviews

Current Resident: Ventura is a beautiful seaside town in Southern California. The weather is the absolute best that I've experienced in the state. I grew up in Lancaster, CA, and the blistering, sweltering heat was so overwhelming each year that I worried I'd burn into a crisp. So, getting to enjoy the mild sea breeze and cooler temperatures - even in the middle of summer - has been an utter delight. There is a surprisingly large amount of options in regards to entertainment and activities to pursue, as well. Not to mention the convenience of having amenities, shopping, and grocers nearby almost anywhere in town is great. One thing I would change is the cost of living here. It is fairly expensive as either a renter or a homeowner. I rent, and the prices have been going up and up and up in the past few years alone. Truly, there needs to be a maximum cap for rent increases or rent prices in general in order to combat this issue.... Read 183 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• grade B

• Population 110,572

• City in Texas

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  Rating 3.64 out of 5  401 reviews

Current Resident: I really love the people of Abilene, but we have some pretty broken systems here. There are so many people of our town experiencing homelessness and there is not really a good way to combat that within our government or leadership. But the people are really the best part of this place. When I came to Abilene for college, I expected to be bored all the time and thought that I would want to leave quickly. But there are always things to do here and people to see and I am really dreading having to leave this city in a year. Something that I would like to see change is the stark contrast between the "good" and "bad" neighborhoods of this city. There is major poverty here right up next to obscene wealth.... Read 401 reviews

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• grade B

• Population 125,474

• City in Nevada

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  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,114 reviews

Current Resident: Reno is constantly growing which allows the activities in the community to constantly be expanding! Already being a city full of people that attend burning man, there are always new events and businesses to participate in all of the time. Whether it be artistic, fitness, music, or many other arenas, I have enjoyed growing up here and seeing it flourish.... Read 1,114 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• grade B

• Population 259,913

• City in Arizona

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  Rating 4.1 out of 5  1,976 reviews

Current Resident: It's a pleasure to live in the hottest city in America!--said no one ever. We Phoenicians love it here for our masterful sunsets, chic coffee bars, bustling downtown art scene, growing Asian cultural representation in the south-east, and hidden gems across the state. Phoenix is also a practical city. Our streets and infrastructure is based on a grid. Streets to the east of Central Ave. (the "equator" of Phoenix), and avenues to the west of Central Ave. It's hard to get lost in our city. Referential streets are everywhere. What is winter to a Phoenician? An extended fall period of 50s and 40s. If you're ever in town, I recommend trying "Earth-plant based cuisine" for a must-try authentic Mexican-based vegan spot. You won't regret visiting the hottest city in America (unless you visit during summer)!... Read 1,976 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• grade B

• Population 1,591,119

• City in Texas

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  Rating 3.59 out of 5  330 reviews

Current Resident: Wichita Falls is my hometown, so naturally I have grown to love it, even the parts that are not so easy to love. That being said, this small city has grown exponentially in the last decade. For example, our downtown area has been hosting monthly art walks, so that local artists can show and give their artwork to the community. It also hosts not just one, but two farmers markets every Saturday morning, so that locally owned businesses have equal opportunity to network and share their goods and services with the community. I would like to see more variety of businesses and restaurants added to the city. We have had to shop and eat in the same places for decades, and if we want to try anything different or new, we have to travel to Dallas or Oklahoma City. Our local nightlife could also use some diversity as well. Overall, Wichita Falls is still growing and I hope they continue to grow for years to come, in a positive way.... Read 330 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• grade B

• Population 102,563

• City in New Mexico

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  Rating 3.76 out of 5  564 reviews

Current Resident: The city has lots to do weekly, such as the farmers market, weekly fairs, events, and diversity program events. I like how everyone here likes to help others, at least in terms of creating a safe and inclusive environment. It's a good place to find active activities like sports, hiking, and biking. And this place is great for those that are blind or need further navigation accommodations, at least near the university.... Read 564 reviews

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• grade B

• grade B

• Population 109,934

• City in Texas

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  Rating 3.58 out of 5  1,100 reviews

Nearby Resident: I absolutely love Corpus Christi! It has everything you could possibly need at your convenience. A big enough town to have things to do and places to see, but also small enough to not get lost like bigger cities. The only thing that does bother me, is the constant road construction that has been going one since I was a baby. Also the crazy amounts of pot holes and bad roads. All in all, it is a great place to live!... Read 1,100 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• grade B

• Population 318,168

• City in Texas

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  Rating 3.78 out of 5  694 reviews

Current Resident: Waco as a whole, feels like a very small, big town. There are many different areas in Waco that are in different economic phases, however, downtown is very charming and entertaining. The Baylor campus is gorgeous, Magnolia and fabulous, and the suburb areas are nice. There is a beautiful lake that offers walking and biking! On the other hand, there is a big homeless community, and you will often find many people pan handling on the corners.... Read 694 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• grade B

• Population 136,800

• City in Texas

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  Rating 3.65 out of 5  504 reviews

Current Resident: Amarillo embraces its Western heritage and offers a unique Texan experience. You can explore attractions like the iconic Cadillac Ranch, the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame, and the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, which showcases the region's history and culture. Amarillo is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. Palo Duro Canyon of Texas, "is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking biking, and camping opportunities. The area also boasts beautiful sunsets and wide-open spaces. Amarillo is often described as a friendly and welcoming community. The residents take pride in their city and are known for their hospitality. You'll find a tight-knit community spirit and a warm Texan welcome.... Read 504 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• grade B

• Population 200,371

• City in Massachusetts

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  Rating 3.8 out of 5  244 reviews

Current Resident: Worcester would be THE best city in New England if we didn't have such a weird municipality government setup filled with conservative old people. Every system in the city suffers due to it. But, the food is world class, it is FULL of local businesses and passionate entrepreneurs, and we need a LOT of housing developments (mainly AFFORDABLE ones) to handle the influx of residents recently. Lots of good things happening here, we just need a more progressive outlook!... Read 244 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Population 203,867

• City in Illinois

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  Rating 3.41 out of 5  257 reviews

Current Resident: Springfield, Illinois, is a great place to grow and learn as a person. Springfield teaches its citizens and visitors a lot about leadership as we are the city known for Abraham Lincoln. The public school system is amazing as it strives to help students grow and help Springfield students grow into strong, independent leaders. The city is a perfect size as it is big enough to have amazing diversity and an exceptional and gorgeous downtown area, but it still is small enough to get from one end of town to the other in 15-30 minutes. There are many government and corporate jobs as the city of Springfield and the state government are the number one employers in Springfield. There are many opportunities for minimum wage and small business jobs. Countless restaurants are constantly looking for hires and employ a lot of younger kids in the city. Historic downtown Springfield is a gold mine for small businesses and Springfield does a great job at supporting the local business in Springfield.... Read 257 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• grade B

• Population 114,672

• City in Michigan

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  Rating 3.52 out of 5  304 reviews

Current Resident: I moved to Lansing in 2017 from Detroit for work. I truly love the atmosphere of the city, and all the different cities that surround Lansing make for a diverse community and an array of different things to do!... Read 304 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Population 113,592

• City in New Mexico

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  Rating 3.66 out of 5  968 reviews

Current Resident: Albuquerque tends to get unfortunate reviews due to the apparent drug use and a large homeless population scattered throughout the city. However, growing up here I have found it to be a vibrant landscape, and cultural foreground with divergent food, people and language. Albuquerque has the feeling of acceptance regardless of background or social standing, offering room for all different people and their unique experiences. When encountered with those different from you it opens a space where learning creativity and collaboration are encouraged resulting in beautiful works of art, music, food and dance, all things intertwined and evidently valued in the city of Albuquerque. However, I would like to see those struggling with addiction and homelessness better recognized and supported by our city's legislation. When all people are accounted for and supported it uplifts the city as a whole rather than creating a struggling and unsafe space to live and be a part of.... Read 968 reviews

• grade B+

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• grade B

• Population 562,336

• City in Florida

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  Rating 4.17 out of 5  1,322 reviews

Current Resident: With every city there are highlights and pitfalls. Traffic, travel times (Miami is a lot larger than people think!), and the occasional language barrier, Miami can come off as a bit rough. But there are many great things to! Miami is a place where you can find food from all parts of the world. The population is very diverse with people from all nations and walks of life making for some great cultural differences, experiences, and viewpoints. With great music, food, and dancing as well as beaches, gardens, and meuseums there is something here for everyone.... Read 1,322 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• grade B

• Population 440,807

• City in California

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  Rating 3.93 out of 5  861 reviews

Current Resident: Sacramento is a major city in California that I recently moved to for college. Personally, I love the immense city people call "the city of trees". There are so many great opportunities with living in such a big area that I never had before. Such as, more job opportunities, friends, community outreaches, volunteer programs, etc. The lush trees around the city make a cozy home environment anyone is sure to fall in love with. Sacramento is in a prime location of only a couple hours from San Francisco, Sonoma National Park, Yosemite, Nevada, and much more to explore. City life can be a bit hectic at times, but ultimately, it just takes time to adapt. My favorite aspect of living in Sacramento is the great resources provided to the public from locals. There are many food banks, free immunizations, farmers market, concerts in the park, and much more. The city is full of life, making it easy for one to fall in love here. So if you haven't already, take a trip to Sacramento! You won't regret!... Read 861 reviews

• grade B+

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• grade B

• Population 518,605

• City in Texas

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  Rating 3.97 out of 5  2,500 reviews

Current Resident: I've lived in Fort Worth my entire life, I am a biracial (White and Black), bisexual woman and I have yet to experience any sort of open racism or homophobia. I enjoy walking downtown as most people are always so friendly and full of life, even at 2pm on a Tuesday afternoon. The sights here are beautiful- having a perfect mixture of the city glow and the good ole Texan open fields. I feel like they're endless activities to do here and a good sense of protection from police, I can really walk up to just about anyone and strike up a conversation if I so desire!... Read 2,500 reviews

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• grade B

• Population 908,469

• City in Tennessee

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  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,589 reviews

Current Resident: What I love about Nashville is how diverse our city is. Every single day you may meet someone different. Travelers from all our visit Nashville, and I love seeing them tour the City. Nashville is beautiful. Even though it may be a small City, there's always something new to do! What I wish Nashville would change is the interstate lanes. Unlike Nashville, Georgia's downtown has a 7 lane high way and I think Nashville would most definitely benefit from that.... Read 1,589 reviews

• grade B+

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• grade B

• Population 682,646

• City in Oregon

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  Rating 3.8 out of 5  898 reviews

Current Resident: I love it here! I became who I am today by moving here. I got my start in college, found my dream job, married my forever best friend, and we now share one son together who is absolutely thriving in life! I would not be where I am today had I not moved here. And although it is a small town, there is quite a lot to do here. It kind of stinks that it rains so much, but we have Saturday Market, which is downtown every Saturday morning, and super fun. They shut down the streets, and local vendors come and sell their products! There is everything from freshly cooked food to food straight from the farm; handmade jewelry and trinkets, and enough booths to browse and shop around at for hours! The night life is very fun, and there are several delicious restaurants to eat at. I have lived all over the United States, and Eugene is by far one of the most fun towns I have ever lived in!... Read 898 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• grade B

• Population 173,278

• City in Pennsylvania

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  Rating 3.9 out of 5  2,083 reviews

Current Resident: My overall experience in Philadelphia has been great! I was born here and came back for college because I love the cultural diversity here and wanted to live in a big city. Philadelphia is more affordable than NYC and has similar qualities at a smaller scale. I do love the proximity of Philadelphia to other cities, mountains, and the beach. Philadelphia has a decent public transportation system as well as public bike rental stations set up everywhere at an affordable price. You can easily get around by walking, and the city has some lovely trails for recreation along the two rivers on either side of the city. There are also a number of public parks and green spaces that are easy to get to as well as community gardens. There are many opportunities here to get involved in community outreach. Philadelphia has an extensive pro sports fan base and a sports complex area that hosts many games, events, and concerts. Philadelphia is well known for our thriving food scene and art communities.... Read 2,083 reviews

• grade B+

• grade C minus

• grade B

• Population 1,596,865

• City in California

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  Rating 3.81 out of 5  744 reviews

Current Resident: Overall, the city is a safe place for families and a great place if you tend to be a picky eater. There are restaurants for every culture and they all tend to taste great! The area also has a lot of great schools. At Santiago High School, they send about 3-6 kids to UCLA every year. However, I must warn you, the area is quite expensive to be in. There also isn't a nightlife for anyone who's interested in that.... Read 744 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• grade B

• Population 157,844

• City in Iowa

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  Rating 4.13 out of 5  298 reviews

Current Resident: What I like about Des Moines is the amount of outdoor activities and places to go given that it's a bustling city. The sense of pride DSM has in doing things as a community is touching and makes it a fun place to to as a group of people. A few things that could be improved is the speed at which roads are fixed. Potholes are quite prevalent especially during spring. There is also a lot of construction that goes on throughout the year which can be a hassle if you aren't up to date on where it's taking place. Overall, a very family friendly city with lots of nature-y actives and lots of places to get amazing food!... Read 298 reviews

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• grade B

• Population 213,545

• City in Colorado

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  Rating 3.96 out of 5  693 reviews

Current Resident: I love Aurora! I've lived here for about 10 years and it's treated me so well. The community is very friendly and everything needed is so near by. Areas are very clean and maintained. I enjoyed the public schools here, even though the safety isn't the best in them. I wish mental health was advocated more all around, and wish they weren't so harsh and strict on students. Some rules have gotten very excessive. Otherwise they're great with student involvement, courses and events. There are activities around the area too but not many. There are sport leagues and clubs for young ones.Again, neighbors are friendly as their pets are very friendly as well. Overall Aurora's great if you get involved!... Read 693 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• grade B

• Population 383,496

• City in Indiana

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  Rating 3.57 out of 5  444 reviews

Nearby Resident: The city is the third largest in Indiana. There is a wide variety of food, jobs, grocery stores, supermarkets, thrift stores, schools, ballparks, etc. Sports are taken pretty seriously at a couple of the high schools, and the colleges in the area from most to least expensive are: University of Evansville, University of Southern Indiana, Ivy Tech Community College. Drivers can get pretty aggressive, especially on 41 and the LLoyd Expressway, but if you are aware of your surroundings you will be fine. My favorite area is the East Side because that's where the Eastland Mall is, as well as some good sports stores and great food. You can look up the food in the area, it's really good. The West Side is more college-town, and that's where USI is located. The area provides a giant variety of jobs for college students that are above minimum wage. You can get just about any type of job in Evansville. I wouldn't live in an apartment on the West Side that costs less than $1000 a month. Crime.... Read 444 reviews

• grade B

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• grade B

• Population 117,184

• City in North Carolina

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  Rating 3.41 out of 5  1,028 reviews

Nearby Resident: Fayetteville has a rich history and many sculptures and works of art that pay tribute to the history of the city. The museums are full of local and historical artists and the staff are very knowledgeable and informative in their tours. The city offers plenty of shops and restaurants for all tastes and cravings along with a good variety of lodging options for visitors. The colleges and universities nearby offer many academic programs in different fields for those in the community to choose from that peek their interest. Hiking trails, lakes, and camp sites also offer some fun for outdoor enthusiasts. Overall, a very nice town.... Read 1,028 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• grade B

• Population 208,497

• City in Florida

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  Rating 4.05 out of 5  465 reviews

Works Here: I love Lakeland! I grew up in a smaller town just outside of Lakeland. Although growing up we didn't spent much time in Lakeland, now as an adult its where I choose to spend it most. Lakelands down town area is has so much history, and its building and architecture unveils that. Myself, my wife and our fur baby Storm spend a lot of quality time in the don town area. We walk Lake Mirror, interacting with people from all walks of life, Lakeland brings such a happy diverse community. My family also enjoys the actives Lakeland brings on the weeks, like the market downtown, we are able meet with locals and venders. Lakeland has diverity within its shopping, and restaurants bring such life to Lakeland. Im happy to now work, living and attend school in Lakeland.... Read 465 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Population 110,401