Huntsville is again (one of the) best places to live in the U.S.

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Huntsville was again included among the best places to live in the annual U.S. News report. (Hville Blast)

The results are in for the annual U.S. News & World Report list of Best Places to Live in the U.S., and while Huntsville did not top the list this year (like we did last year), the Rocket City does sit at #2 on the prestigious list this year.

Although one could look at this as Huntsville “dropping” on the list, we like to think of it more as Huntsville staying the course. Here’s more on this year’s rankings:

The Best Places to Live in the U.S.

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Huntsville ranked second on the list of Best Places To Live in the U.S. (Michael Seale/Hville Blast)

U.S. News analyzed 150 metro areas in the United States to find the best places to live based on quality of life and the job market in each metro area, as well as the value of living there and people’s desire to live there.

Huntsville came in just behind Green Bay, Wisc. this year. Here’s the top 10, according to this year’s list:

  1. Green Bay, Wisc.
  2. Huntsville, Ala.
  3. Raleigh/Durham, N.C.
  4. Boulder, Col.
  5. Sarasota, Fla.
  6. Naples, Fla.
  7. Portland, Maine
  8. Charlotte, N.C.
  9. Colorado Springs, Col.
  10. Fayetteville, Ark.

To reach these rankings, U.S. News used a methodology measuring a city’s Quality of Life Index (crime rate, education, healthcare, etc), Value Index (housing availability and affordability), Desirability Index (do people want to move there?) and the Job Market Index (job availability and earning potential).

View the complete 2023 rankings here.

We’re Number 2!

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Huntsville’s vibrant community and educational institutions helped the city’s ranking. (Hville Blast)

Although Huntsville dropped a spot in this year’s rankings, Mayor Tommy Battle does not believe that is a sign that Huntsville is slipping. And he’s right, considering that rarely has a city ranked atop this list for consecutive years. Battle said this year’s ranking shows continued progress.

“Huntsville is proud to once again join this impressive listing of dynamic cities. Whether we’re #2, #1 or #15, we’ll continue our focus on sustainable growth and maintaining the exceptional quality of life that our residents deserve.” 

Mayor Tommy Battle

According to U.S. News & World Report’s data analysis, Huntsville’s diverse economy, excellent educational institutions, and vibrant community were acknowledged as significant assets. The city’s reputation as a leading center for technological innovation and aerospace industries also played a vital role in securing its spot.

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Michael Seale
Michael Seale
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