Florida boasts 14 of the top 150 best places to live in the United States, according to the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings. The annual list, which was released on Tuesday, evaluates 150 major cities based on various metrics such as housing affordability, household income, quality of education, access to health care, crime rates, and air quality. This year’s rankings incorporated city-based data rather than metro-based data, leading to several new entries from the South in the top 25.
Key Highlights:
Naples is ranked as the No. 1 best place to live in the country, praised for its pristine beaches, golf courses, fine dining, and shopping.
Miami ranks No. 123, the lowest among the Florida cities on the list. Despite this, Miami is highlighted for its vibrant metro area, diverse neighborhoods, and burgeoning status as an international business hub.
What the Rankings Said About Miami and Naples:
Miami: Recognized for its dynamic neighborhoods, Miami attracts young professionals with careers in trade and banking. Suburbs like Key Biscayne, Coral Gables, and Doral are noted for being popular family locations. Miami is also celebrated for its acceptance of nontraditional families and large pride celebrations.
Naples: Known as a retirement haven for the affluent, Naples offers a blend of natural beauty and luxury with its proximity to the Everglades and the Gulf of Mexico, upscale amenities, and a rural interior that supports farming communities like Immokalee.
Florida Cities in the Top 150:
1. Naples
11. Sarasota
31. Pensacola
35. Tampa
37. Fort Myers
49. Melbourne
56. Jacksonville
68. Orlando
75. Tallahassee
78. Ocala
80. Lakeland
83. Port St. Lucie
96. Daytona Beach
123. Miami
The rankings reflect a heightened interest in cost of living and job market conditions, emphasizing what Americans consider most important when choosing where to live.
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