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The Best US Cities to Raise a Family Right Now

Last updated 25th July 2022

Traveling the world with the kids is great, but so is having a home base to come back to after. If your family is looking to put down roots, the big question is always where? A new study from House Method is here to help! It ranks cities in across the US on how they are for raising a family right now. The findings might surprise you. The study ranked cities based on their population, median household income, home cost, graduation rate and crime rate.

Here’s what they discovered are the best US cities to raise a family in for 2019:

10/10 Raleigh, North Carolina

This welcoming Southern community is an ideal spot for families. It perfectly melds laid-back charm with city life and has become a haven for technology, education and life science institutions, as well as for artists and culture lovers.

 

9/10 Seattle, Washington

A modern metropolis, Seattle offers families plenty of culture and fun in a stunning Pacific Northwest landscape. From the iconic Space Needle to the delicious food scene, families can explore this city for a lifetime without getting bored.

 

8/10 San Jose, California

One of the best places to raise a family on the West Coast, sunny San Jose is an ideal spot for techies. Surrounded by Silicon Valley, it’s a much chiller and more affordable option than San Francisco for families.

See some of the best free attractions for kids nearby in California. 

7/10 Minneapolis, Minnesota

This charming Midwest city has plenty going for it to make it one of the best cities to raise a family. Its vibrant food scene, waterfront skyline views, craft brew scene and the fact that it has one of the best park systems in the country makes it a dream spot for parents and kids alike.

Find out about the best family activities in the Twin Cities. 

6/10 Des Moines, Iowa

Once thought of as drab, this capital city is experiencing a renaissance. The now hip city boasts great museums, outdoor fun and a lively music and theater scene.

See other underrated cities families should visit.

5/10 Fayetteville, Arkansas

History buffs will love making this their home. From the Clinton House Museum to vintage airplanes on display at the Arkansas Air and Military Museum, there’s plenty to explore. Outside the city, the area also features over 40 miles of trails and 4,000 acres of parkland, all teeming with beautiful lakes and rivers.

Find the best fall activity in every state.

4/10 Madison, Wisconsin

Known for being a highly walkable and bike-friendly city, Madison is ideal for families. Set on an isthmus between Mendota and Monona Lakes, it’s where charming Midwest town meets progressive metropolis.

Read why Wisconsin’s Door County is the secret coastal getaway you need.

3/10 Denver, Colorado

It’s no secret that Denver is quickly becoming a super popular spot for families. The bustling city is quickly growing and constantly seeing new restaurants, bars, schools, museums and more pop up on every corner. It’s also an ideal place for families with outdoor lovers. Some of the country’s best hiking, skiing, mountain biking and more are all just out your backdoor.

Discover Denver’s magical, Willy Wonka-esque dessert shop.

2/10 Austin, Texas

This lively Texas city has it all for families! The Live Music Capital of the World, has plenty of family-friendly entertainment and culture, from its live music venues to art galleries. Add in a beautiful riverfront and some of the best food in the country (hello BBQ and tacos!) and it’s easy to see why families are flocking here.

Take on the ultimate family road trip through Texas. 

1/10 Overland Park, Kansas

It may come as a surprise to you that the location taking the top prize and coming in as the best place to raise a family is Overland Park. But it shouldn’t. Affordable and friendly, this city of just under 200,000 is the ideal place to work, play and live. Here you’ll find everything from  cute boutique stores and trendy restaurants to culture, history and plenty of outdoor fun.

See the 10 Best Countries in the World to Live Abroad