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- There Are Now 13 Best Places To Live And Travel On This List!
AARP, formerly the American Association of Retired Persons, releases the Livability Index that "scores neighborhoods and communities" in the United States about how they fare in public services. The index targets 50-year-olds and above and is an effective way to gauge how easy it is to live in a particular area. It is helpful for retirees looking for a new place to live.
Tourists can also check out the index when they want to be introduced to a destination or if they’re planning to visit a place and do due diligence (about its public transportation and accommodations.) After all, these U.S. cities are not just livable but hospitable. There are many places to move, live, and travel in the United States, so here is a list of the top 13!
UPDATE: 2023/06/28 14:08 EST BY NOAH STAATS
There Are Now 13 Best Places To Live And Travel On This List!
This article has been refreshed with three new "best" cities in the US for traveling and living, including Charlotte, Scottsdale, and Sarasota. Whether someone likes the beach, desert, or a historic southern city, the United States is filled with amazing places to call home (or home away from home). Have fun!
13 Charlotte, North Carolina
- Charlotte ranks as a highly sought-after city for 2023 and 2024.
- The city boasts a rich history, including a thriving town center and plenty of community events.
One of the best cities in the United States to live and travel as of 2023 and 2024 is Charlotte, North Carolina. With a charming yet sprawling urban downtown, this location offers residents and visitors history, luxury, and a chance at jobs, homes, and other economic opportunities.
12 Sarasota, Florida
- Sarasota ranks in the top five cities in the US to live in.
- The city is one of the best to relocate and travel to in Florida.
Another great place to move and travel in the United States is Sarasota, Florida. Notably, Sarasota jumped to the No. 5 position on U.S. News & World Report's Best Places to Live in the U.S. list for 2023-2024 and kept its current No. 1 ranking for the best place to live in Florida.
11 Scottsdale, Arizona
- Scottsdale, Arizona, is regarded as one of the best up-and-coming cities in the United States.
- Jobs, homes, and opportunities are bountiful here, especially for younger people and families.
One of the best places to live and travel in the US is Scottsdale, Arizona. This desert city is just beyond the state's capital, Phoenix, and offers the epitome of luxury. With fine dining, a booming real estate market, and jobs for everyone: Scottsdale is a desert city to keep an eye on.
10 Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Milwaukee is tenth in the most livable US big cities.
- The city is also known as the 'Beer Capital of the World.'
Milwaukee is tenth in the ranking of the most livable big cities in the U.S. This Wisconsin destination touts itself as the “Beer Capital of the World,” but it’s more than this beverage. More so, it is beyond its famous basketball team as the city offers urban and natural wonders, thanks to the presence of Lake Michigan and rivers. The said waterways are dotted with parks where tourists can pause amid the hustle and bustle of the city. Meanwhile, those who want to befriend the city’s past can visit its museums and historical attractions. Whatever tourists do in Milwaukee, they won’t be disappointed.
9 San Jose, California
- San Jose, California, is a hub within the Silicon Valley.
- Tech jobs are abundant here, making it a great place to move to.
San Jose is known as the center of Silicon Valley, so it’s not surprising that this city, the headquarters of the high-tech industry, is among the most livable in the country. This thriving metropolis is teeming with attractions, highlighted by technology-related destinations, where tourists can be inspired by modern wonders. However, those who want something casual can head to museums, historical landmarks, cultural institutions, wineries, breweries, and nature spots, like San Francisco Bay. Wherever in San Jose, tourists will experience inspiration.
8 Seattle, Washington
- Seattle is known for mild weather and has stunning water/mountain views.
- The Space Needle and Pike Place Market are must-visit locations in the city.
Hugged by Puget Sound and Lake Washington, Seattle is a dynamic city that offers refuge even as it’s packed with urbanity. As a seaport, this Evergreen State charmer is a busy destination that welcomes traders and travelers. Among its top destinations are Space Needle and Pike Place Market, frequented by sightseers who want to experience some of Seattle's best. Nature lovers, on the other hand, can retreat to parks by the waterways, where they can experience an oasis while surrounded by modernity.
7 Denver, Colorado
- Denver, CO, is known for its mix of nature and urban structures.
- The city is tucked between the Rocky Mountains and the High Plains.
As Colorado’s capital, exploring Denver is one way to be introduced to the state, giving them a glimpse of what is to come when going beyond this bustling metropolis. Tucked between the Rocky Mountains and the High Plains, the Mile High City satisfies outdoor enthusiasts with varied playgrounds. Those who want to stay in the corners of the city proper can explore diverse neighborhoods and step back in time in its historical spots. From the wonders of Mother Nature to a rich culture, Denver aims to wow tourists of varied tastes.
6 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia has a young population, being popular among college-age residents.
- The nature throughout the park makes this city incredibly livable.
Those who want to feel alive should head to Philadelphia and enjoy its vibe. In this charming city, tourists can get a lot of insights into the rich history of the country, especially since it has Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were adopted. Beyond stories of the past, Philly knows how to cater to lovers of nature, thanks to its waterways and parks where tourists can take it slow. Add the many shops and dining options, and anyone visiting Philadelphia will feel inspired.
5 Portland, Oregon
- Portland, Oregon, is known for its pleasant year-round weather.
- The city features various parks, all of which are open to the public.
Two rivers pass by Portland -- Willamette and Columbia -- offering a calming breeze to the city. As such, those exploring this charming destination will have the energy to go beyond its usual attractions. Not anyone knows this, but Portland is one of four U.S. cities “to have an extinct volcano within its boundaries.” That alone should be enough to entice explorers. If not, Forest Park would encourage them to visit, especially since it is one of the country’s largest urban forests. Add Mill Ends Park, the world’s smallest, and those exploring Portland would wonder how can a city be so green.
4 Boston, Massachusetts
- Boston is rich in history and landmarks, being the state capital of Massachusetts.
- This is one of the oldest US cities and is home to the country's oldest park.
Boston has that Atlantic breeze, and those who want to explore islands while still being part of a city should head to this destination. Being a state capital, tourists might think that Boston is all about modernity. That’s true, but what makes this metropolis charming is how it preserves its rich stories through museums and historical landmarks. After all, it played many roles during the nation’s founding. The city is so historic that it’s one of the oldest in the U.S. and home to the country’s oldest park. Indeed, Boston’s a boss.
3 Washington, D.C.
- Washington, D.C., is home to the US capital, the White House, and various iconic landmarks.
- The city is one of the safest and most protected in the world.
Washington, D.C., is home to many iconic landmarks that symbolize the country. The capital city is often featured in many movies and shows that it has become a global destination. As it should be because aside from being livable, it is always ready to cater to curious tourists who want to learn about all things the U.S.A. Among its top attractions are Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and Washington Monument. Add the pristine Potomac River, and tourists will have a holistic experience.
2 New York City, New York
- New York City is one of the world's largest and wealthiest cities.
- Many people move here for employment opportunities.
As with Washington, D.C., New York City needs no introduction as this urban jungle is world-renowned, much so that it’s the subject of many songs. The City That Never Sleeps is where dreams are made of, but more than that, it’s all about being real. It’s a hotspot of many things: culture, arts, shopping, dining, and fashion. Though its bustling charm is not for everyone, it’s still a must-visit because of its awe-inspiring landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty, and the posh vibe it exudes. NYC is always nice to see.
1 San Francisco, California
- San Francisco is known for pleasant year-round weather.
- The city is often regarded as Northern California's 'Crown Jewel.'
San Francisco tops the list of AARP’s 2022 Livability Index, and it has the credentials up its sleeves. This Californian charmer is proud of its many attractions, spearheaded by the ever-picturesque Golden Gate Bridge. The salty Pacific air that reaches the city exudes a summer vibe, enticing tourists to explore more charming spots, like the lush Japanese Tea Garden or the inviting botanical garden. It’s super fun in SF, so it’s no wonder why many tourists left their hearts in this city.