Many Americans think about moving for a better life—whether it’s for a good job, lower living costs, or just a fresh start. Every year, US News & World Report helps by ranking the best 150 cities in the USA based on important factors like job opportunities, affordable housing, quality of life, and school rankings.
In 2025, Johns Creek, Georgia, ranked number one on the list. It’s known for having a strong job market, good quality of life, and a high “desirability” score, which includes things like weather, commute time, and access to culture. Other top cities include Carmel in Indiana, Pearland in Texas, and several fast-growing suburbs.
Let’s take a look at the top 15 best cities to live in the USA in 2025 and why people love them.
1. Johns Creek, Georgia
Population: 81,167
Median Home Price: $637,500
Average Rent: $2,750
Median Household Income: $160,185
This safe and quiet suburb near Atlanta is full of charm, jobs, and natural beauty. It’s one of Georgia’s fastest-growing cities and is home to celebrities like Jeff Foxworthy and Usher.
2. Carmel, Indiana
Population: 103,606
Median Home Price: $516,600
Average Rent: $2,199
Median Household Income: $134,602
Carmel offers great schools and a strong community. A TikTok video once went viral showing its huge high school with cool features like a café, radio station, and even a planetarium.
3. Pearland, Texas
Population: 129,620
Median Home Price: $368,900
Average Rent: $2,300
Median Household Income: $112,470
This suburb of Houston has grown rapidly over the years. Pearland combines city benefits with suburban peace and is perfect for families.
4. Fishers, Indiana
Population: 103,986
Median Home Price: $406,400
Average Rent: $2,175
Median Household Income: $128,141
Located near Indianapolis, Fishers is now a tech hub with excellent schools and modern infrastructure.
5. Cary, North Carolina
Population: 182,659
Median Home Price: $701,500
Average Rent: $2,120
Median Household Income: $129,399
Part of the Research Triangle, Cary attracts professionals and families. Its laid-back lifestyle, strong job market, and cultural diversity make it a top choice.
6. League City, Texas
Population: 118,456
Median Home Price: $343,800
Average Rent: $2,200
Median Household Income: $119,870
Close to Houston and the beach, League City is both relaxing and practical. It scores high in value and livability.
7. Apex, North Carolina
Population: 75,977
Median Home Price: $596,000
Average Rent: $2,250
Median Household Income: $138,442
Just a short drive from Raleigh, Apex offers great jobs, schools, and a small-town feel.
8. Leander, Texas
Population: 87,511
Median Home Price: $403,800
Average Rent: $2,195
Median Household Income: $140,180
A fast-growing suburb near Austin, Leander is known for its schools and beautiful parks.
9. Rochester Hills, Michigan
Population: 78,330
Median Home Price: $467,000
Average Rent: $1,800
Median Household Income: $119,054
This scenic city has something for every season, including Christmas markets, hiking trails, and live music at Meadow Brook Amphitheater.
10. Troy, Michigan
Population: 89,209
Median Home Price: $462,500
Average Rent: $2,200
Median Household Income: $119,299
Troy supports the auto industry and has a top-tier shopping mall, Somerset Collection, filled with luxury brands.
11. Sammamish, Washington
Population: 66,474
Median Home Price: $1.9 million
Average Rent: $3,845
Median Household Income: $227,273
This peaceful place near Seattle is surrounded by nature. It has very low climate risk and is great for outdoor lovers.
12. Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Population: 122,756
Median Home Price: $355,000
Average Rent: $1,750
Median Household Income: $85,220
A historic town with deep Native American roots, it’s full of community spirit, downtown charm, and festivals like Rooster Days.
13. Ellicott City, Maryland
Population: 75,947
Median Home Price: $769,000
Average Rent: $2,812
Median Household Income: $157,891
Close to Baltimore, this city keeps its historical charm alive with old buildings and museums while still offering a modern lifestyle.
14. Flower Mound, Texas
Population: 79,990
Median Home Price: $645,600
Average Rent: $2,890
Median Household Income: $157,737
Named after a wildflower hill, this Dallas suburb is peaceful, green, and offers great schools and plenty of community events.
15. Pflugerville, Texas
Population: 66,819
Median Home Price: $395,300
Average Rent: $2,195
Median Household Income: $112,656
Located outside Austin, this city offers a blend of recreation and comfort with over 50 miles of trails and Lake Pflugerville nearby.
Whether you’re looking for a career boost, better living costs, or a peaceful lifestyle, these top 15 cities offer a mix of everything. From green suburbs near big cities to tech-friendly towns and communities with a rich cultural history, there’s a place on this list for every kind of mover. With good schools, steady incomes, and quality homes, these cities are some of the best places to live in the USA in 2025.
