New data-driven list ranks the best small to mid-sized cities to live, work and visit in the Midwest.
Livability.com has released its 2024 ranking of the Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Midwest. Ann Arbor has earned a top spot on this year’s list of the Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Midwest, highlighting its exceptional quality of life and affordability.
The data-driven ranking was created using information collected from Livability’s annual ranking of the Top 100 Best Places to Live, which recognizes the best small and mid-sized communities across the U.S.
The list is based on extensive research into economic variables and factors influencing quality of life, with a unique emphasis on affordability. Livability.com partnered with Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS) to curate the Top 100 Best Places to Live list based on about 100 data points measuring eight categories:
- Economy
- Housing and Cost of Living
- Amenities
- Transportation
- Environment
- Safety
- Education
- Health
The ranking focuses on small to mid-sized cities (population 75,000 – 500,000) across the U.S., using an algorithm to weigh the eight categories against each other and select the 100 best places to live.
When combined, this data emphasizes Ann Arbor’s appeal as a thriving community with a strong economy, vibrant amenities and welcoming atmosphere. Ann Arbor scored especially well in the health, education and amenities categories.
The Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Midwest broadly reflects the findings that affordability and local amenities are top priorities for people looking to relocate.
“In today’s landscape, where affordability is increasingly challenging, people are prioritizing locations where their money stretches further,” says Amanda Ellis, Editor in Chief of Livability.com. “Our rankings spotlight exceptional small and mid-sized communities that excel in providing residents with both affordability and a high quality of life.”
