The best place to live depends as much on livability and job opportunities as it does on personal taste. However, economic, housing and general amenities can put a location in the lead. Based on Livability's rankings, here are some of the best places to live in 2017.
Bismarck, North Dakota
Photo Credit: North Dakota 365
Population: 65,123
Median household income: $57,660
Median home value: $169,600
Parks: 10
Public schools: 20
Bismarck has ample job prospects, a lively downtown and plenty of recreational opportunities.
Fort Collins, Colorado
Photo Credit: Wikipedia
Population: 149,627
Median household income: $53,775
Median home value: $253,300
Parks: 18
Public schools: 20
Fort Collins has a strong tech industry, along with a college community, busy downtown and endless outdoor activities.
Madison, Wisconsin
Population: 239,848
Median household income: $53,933
Median home value: $211,600
Parks: 12
Public schools: 7
Madison has a strong focus on business corporations, retailers and skilled researchers, and it has an energetic downtown scene.
Lincoln, Nebraska
Photo Credit: Project Control
Population: 265,811
Median household income: $49,794
Median home value: $144,900
Parks: 13
Public schools: 15
Lincoln is gaining a strong tech/startup industry that blends with its maturing arts and food culture.
Bothell, Washington
Photo Credit: Lennar
Population: 34,920
Median household income: $75,643
Median home value: $344,600
Parks: 8
Public schools: 20
Bothell is big on tech and medical industries, but it also has a strong sense of community and plenty of recreational activities.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Photo Credit: Family Law Iowa
Population: 128,009
Median household income: $54,465
Median home value: $134,600
Parks: 16
Public schools: 17
Cedar Rapids has an entrepreneurial spirit and many job prospects, which works well alongside its arts and nightlife scene.
Ventura, California
Photo Credit: CACM Group
Population: 108,449
Median household income: $66,485
Median home value: $428,600
Parks: 3
Public schools: 20
Ventura has plenty of job opportunities, as well as a booming arts scene and beach-side activities.
Manhattan, Kansas
Photo Credit: Ed McNamara/courtesy of Historic Downtown Manhattan | Livability
Population: 55,112
Median household income: $43,275
Median home value: $182,800
Parks: 4
Public schools: 11
Manhattan has a strong focus on scientific research and education jobs, as well as a vibrant food and entertainment culture.
Lexington, Kentucky
Photo Credit: Visit Lex
Population: 304,473
Median household income: $48,667
Median home value: $166,000
Parks: 15
Public schools: 20
Lexington has plenty of job prospects, especially tech and other startups, and it is well-known for its horse culture, outdoor activities and food scene.
Murray, Utah
Photo Credit: Exit Realty Plus Utah
Population: 47,909
Median household income: $53,797
Median home value: $225,300
Parks: 6
Public schools: 20
Murray is known for its medical industry as well as its recreational opportunities.
