Key takeaways
Huntsville, Alabama is the top U.S. city for 2022–2023, featuring lower-than-average home prices, a strong quality of life, and plenty of city amenities.
Behind Huntsville is Colorado Springs, Colorado, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the amenities of city life.
The third ranked city is Green Bay, Wisconsin, a thriving waterside metro area with a variety of entertainment.
Looking to relocate and buy a home in a new city? You’re in good company. In 2021, 20% more Americans moved than the year prior. With increased remote opportunities and coastal cities growing more expensive, many Americans are looking for more affordable, smaller cities. Here are the best rated U.S. cities for 2022–2023, according to US News & World Report.
1. Huntsville, AL
This fast-growing Alabama city rose to prominence during the 1960s Space Race, and is home to NASA and the U.S. Army’s Redstone Arsenal. Huntsville residents enjoy lower-than-average home prices and a continually improving quality of life thanks to the city’s recent revitalization efforts.
Stats
Population: 464,607
Average annual salary: $58,730
Median home price: $192,667
Median rent: $869
Transportation: Bus system available, car typically needed
Major highlights
Huntsville has the most educated population in the state, with many residents working in engineering, technology, and defense.
Ranks #3 in the cheapest metros to live in the U.S.
The city features top aerospace attractions, plus plenty to do if you’re interested in the arts, history, or food.
2. Colorado Springs, CO
Colorado Springs is a former gold rush town turned hip modern city, boasting breathtaking natural surroundings and top city amenities — all with a small town feel. Outdoor enthusiasts will thrive with many opportunities for hiking, biking, and more.
Stats
Population: 735,480
Average annual salary: $55,540
Median home price: $555,072
Median rent: $1,232
Transportation: Bus system available, car typically needed
Major highlights
U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Centers are located in Colorado Springs, where athletes train at an impressive 6,000 feet above sea level.
Home prices are higher-than-average thanks to low housing inventory and strong demand for living in the city. However, Colorado Springs property taxes are among the lowest in the U.S., and the area remains more affordable than nearby cities Boulder and Denver.
Colorado Springs features two dozen breweries, along with many parks and attractions in the arts.
3. Green Bay, WI
Famously home of the NFL Green Bay Packers, this Wisconsin city is beloved for its sports, food, and entertainment and arts scenes. Located in the arm of Lake Michigan, Green Bay offers an ample supply of outdoor fun, as well as a thriving downtown and two college campuses.
Stats
Population: 320,827
Average annual salary: $50,020
Median home price: $181,700
Median rent: $807
Transportation: Car typically needed
Major highlights
Green Bay ranks as the #2 cheapest city in the U.S. Its home prices are lower-than-average, but property taxes are relatively high compared to other cities.
The city has no shortage of things to do, from music to sports to dining to miles of riverside trails for walkers and bikers.
Other top cities to live in for 2022–23
4. Boulder, CO
5. San Jose, CA
6. Raleigh & Durham, SC
7. Fayetteville, AR
8. Portland, ME
9. Sarasota, FL
10. San Francisco, CA
This content is meant for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as financial, tax, legal, or insurance advice. Opendoor always encourages you to reach out to an advisor regarding your own situation.
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