In a study of 1,268 small cities, these are the best

WalletHub analysis considers factors including affordability

In a study of 1,268 small cities, these are the best

Small-city living can be a lot more affordable than larger city alternatives but which ones are the best and worst overall?

A new analysis by WalletHub set out to answer that by studying 1,268 small cities (population: 25,000-100,000) across the US and ranking them based on 40 key indicators of livability including affordability, economic health, education & health, quality of life, and safety.

Topping the list is Leawood, KS, ranking 1st for affordability and in the top 40 for economic health and education & health. However, it was ranked 130 for safety and 643 for quality of life. Carmel, IN, and Princeton, NJ, complete the top 3.

Meanwhile, McLean, Virginia has the highest median annual household income, $190,258, which is 9.7 times higher than in Carbondale, Illinois, the city with the lowest at $19,515.

The highest homeownership rate is in The Villages, FL, while Fort Hood, TX has the lowest rate.

Top 20 Small Cities in America

1

Leawood, KS

 

11

Arlington, MA

2

Carmel, IN

 

12

Melrose, MA

3

Princeton, NJ

 

13

Fishers, IN

4

Brentwood, TN

 

14

Wellesley, MA

5

Milton, MA

 

15

Mason, OH

6

Needham, MA

 

16

Franklin, TN

7

Los Altos, CA

 

17

Southlake, TX

8

Littleton, CO

 

18

Highland Park, IL

9

Newton, MA

 

19

Westport, CT

10

West Fargo, ND

 

20

Kirkland, WA