#1
0
Score
Akron, OH
Rubber City with cheap housing, minor league baseball, and a revitalizing downtown.
COL Index
88.5
1BR Rent
$950
Sunny Days
166
State Income Tax
3.99%
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#2
0
Score
Albuquerque, NM
Duke City with 310 sunny days, hot air balloons, and stunning Southwest landscapes.
COL Index
94.5
1BR Rent
$1150
Sunny Days
310
State Income Tax
4.9%
#3
0
Score
Amsterdam, NH
The cosmopolitan canal capital, blending historic charm with a world-class cultural scene and the country's highest cost of living.
COL Index
82.1
1BR Rent
$2302
Sunny Days
170
State Income Tax
30%
#4
0
Score
Anaheim, CA
Home of Disneyland with suburban comfort, but California housing prices.
COL Index
148.5
1BR Rent
$2100
Sunny Days
280
State Income Tax
9.3%
#5
0
Score
Anchorage, AK
Last Frontier's largest city with no state income or sales tax, but extreme winters.
COL Index
118.5
1BR Rent
$1400
Sunny Days
126
State Income Tax
None
#6
0
Score
Ann Arbor, MI
College town with University of Michigan, Big Ten sports, and intellectual energy.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1550
Sunny Days
178
State Income Tax
4.25%
#7
0
Score
Asheville, NC
Mountain hippie haven with breweries, Blue Ridge Parkway, and a vibrant arts scene.
COL Index
102.5
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
212
State Income Tax
4.75%
#8
0
Score
Atlanta, GA
The South's economic capital with affordable living, film production, and Southern hospitality.
COL Index
104.7
1BR Rent
$1550
Sunny Days
234
State Income Tax
5.75%
#9
0
Score
Augusta, GA
Home of the Masters with cheap housing, the Savannah River, and Southern charm.
COL Index
90.5
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
218
State Income Tax
5.75%
#10
0
Score
Aurora, CO
Denver suburb with diversity, medical centers, and Rocky Mountain access.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1550
Sunny Days
245
State Income Tax
4.4%
#11
0
Score
Austin, TX
Live Music Capital with booming tech, no state income tax, and a vibrant culture.
COL Index
119.3
1BR Rent
$1650
Sunny Days
228
State Income Tax
None
#12
0
Score
Bakersfield, CA
California's affordable option with agriculture, oil, and country music heritage.
COL Index
102.5
1BR Rent
$1200
Sunny Days
272
State Income Tax
9.3%
#13
0
Score
Baltimore, MD
Charm City with crab cakes, Inner Harbor, and surprisingly affordable row houses.
COL Index
108.4
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
213
State Income Tax
5.75%
#14
0
Score
Baton Rouge, LA
Red Stick with LSU Tigers, Cajun food, Mississippi River, and Southern affordability.
COL Index
94.5
1BR Rent
$1150
Sunny Days
212
State Income Tax
4.25%
#15
0
Score
Belfast, NIR
Northern Ireland's capital with a transformed city center, thriving film industry, and the UK's lowest cost of living.
COL Index
84.1
1BR Rent
£750
Sunny Days
128
Income Tax
20%
#16
0
Score
Bellingham, WA
A coastal college town near Vancouver BC with outdoor access, craft breweries, and a growing tech scene.
COL Index
115.2
1BR Rent
$1500
Sunny Days
157
State Income Tax
None
#17
0
Score
Bend, OR
Outdoor playground with breweries, skiing, and no sales tax in the high desert.
COL Index
118.5
1BR Rent
$1750
Sunny Days
230
State Income Tax
8.75%
#18
0
Score
Billings, MT
Montana's largest city with Yellowstone proximity, no sales tax, and Big Sky country.
COL Index
96.5
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
245
State Income Tax
6.75%
#19
0
Score
Birmingham, AL
Magic City with civil rights history, medical centers, and very affordable Southern living.
COL Index
90.5
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
213
State Income Tax
5%
#20
0
Score
Birmingham, ENG
The UK's second-largest city with a rich industrial heritage, diverse culture, and some of the most affordable housing in England.
COL Index
92.3
1BR Rent
£950
Sunny Days
138
Income Tax
20%
#21
0
Score
Boise, ID
City of Trees with outdoor adventure, fastest-growing metro, and manageable cost of living.
COL Index
102.5
1BR Rent
$1400
Sunny Days
206
State Income Tax
5.8%
#22
0
Score
Boston, MA
Historic college town with world-class hospitals, sports, and brutal winters.
COL Index
153.2
1BR Rent
$2800
Sunny Days
200
State Income Tax
5%
#23
0
Score
Boulder, CO
Liberal mountain town with CU Buffaloes, outdoor obsession, and very expensive housing.
COL Index
148.5
1BR Rent
$2200
Sunny Days
245
State Income Tax
4.4%
#24
0
Score
Bridgeport, CT
Connecticut's largest city with affordable housing by Northeast standards and train to NYC.
COL Index
118.5
1BR Rent
$1500
Sunny Days
202
State Income Tax
6.99%
#25
0
Score
Bristol, ENG
A creative coastal city with a thriving aerospace and tech sector, vibrant street art, and excellent quality of life.
COL Index
102.1
1BR Rent
£1250
Sunny Days
154
Income Tax
20%
#26
0
Score
Buffalo, NY
City of Good Neighbors with chicken wings, lake effect snow, and incredibly cheap housing.
COL Index
92.5
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
157
State Income Tax
6.85%
#27
0
Score
Burlington, VT
Lake Champlain college town with Ben & Jerry's, craft beer, and progressive politics.
COL Index
112.5
1BR Rent
$1650
Sunny Days
157
State Income Tax
6%
#28
0
Score
Calgary, AB
Canada's energy capital with the highest household incomes, abundant sunshine, and easy access to the Rocky Mountains.
COL Index
105.7
1BR Rent
C$1550
Sunny Days
239
Provincial Tax
10%
#29
0
Score
Cardiff, WLS
Wales' capital offers a compact, affordable city with a growing media sector, a stunning waterfront, and easy access to nature.
COL Index
89.2
1BR Rent
£875
Sunny Days
150
Income Tax
20%
#30
0
Score
Chandler, AZ
Phoenix tech suburb with Intel, excellent schools, and 296 days of sunshine.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1650
Sunny Days
296
State Income Tax
2.59%
#31
0
Score
Charleston, SC
Holy City with cobblestone streets, world-class food, and Southern coastal elegance.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1750
Sunny Days
230
State Income Tax
6.5%
#32
0
Score
Charlotte, NC
Banking hub of the South with NASCAR, craft beer, and a reasonable cost of living.
COL Index
98.2
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
214
State Income Tax
4.75%
#33
0
Score
Chattanooga, TN
Gig City with fastest internet, Lookout Mountain, and no state income tax.
COL Index
92.5
1BR Rent
$1150
Sunny Days
208
State Income Tax
None
#34
0
Score
Chesapeake, VA
Coastal Virginia suburb with military presence, Great Bridge locks, and suburban comfort.
COL Index
102.5
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
212
State Income Tax
5.75%
#35
0
Score
Cheyenne, WY
Frontier Days capital with no state income tax, wide open spaces, and windy plains.
COL Index
96.5
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
235
State Income Tax
None
#36
0
Score
Chicago, IL
The Midwest's economic hub with world-class architecture, deep-dish pizza, and four distinct seasons.
COL Index
110.8
1BR Rent
$1800
Sunny Days
189
State Income Tax
4.95%
#37
0
Score
Chula Vista, CA
San Diego suburb with Mexican border proximity, diversity, and coastal California prices.
COL Index
138.5
1BR Rent
$2100
Sunny Days
267
State Income Tax
9.3%
#38
0
Score
Cincinnati, OH
Queen City with chili on spaghetti, riverfront revival, and very affordable housing.
COL Index
92.8
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
176
State Income Tax
3.99%
#39
0
Score
Cleveland, OH
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame city with cheap housing, lakefront, and a gritty comeback.
COL Index
90.2
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
166
State Income Tax
3.99%
#40
0
Score
Colorado Springs, CO
Olympic City USA with Pikes Peak views, military presence, and outdoor adventure.
COL Index
105.2
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
243
State Income Tax
4.4%
#41
0
Score
Columbia, SC
Capital city with USC Gamecocks, three rivers, and affordable Southern living.
COL Index
94.5
1BR Rent
$1150
Sunny Days
215
State Income Tax
6.5%
#42
0
Score
Columbus, OH
Midwest affordability with a booming tech scene and Ohio State energy.
COL Index
92.1
1BR Rent
$1150
Sunny Days
190
State Income Tax
3.99%
#43
0
Score
Corpus Christi, TX
Texas beach town with Gulf Coast living, no state income tax, and naval aviation.
COL Index
92.5
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
223
State Income Tax
None
#44
0
Score
Dallas, TX
Big D offers corporate headquarters, sports, and no state income tax at a reasonable cost.
COL Index
101.3
1BR Rent
$1500
Sunny Days
234
State Income Tax
None
#45
0
Score
Delft, ZH
A quaint, historic city renowned for Delftware blue pottery, a top technical university, and a charming canal-lined city centre between The Hague and Rotterdam.
COL Index
75
1BR Rent
$1400
Sunny Days
175
State Income Tax
30%
#46
0
Score
Denver, CO
Mile High City with 300 days of sunshine, craft beer, and easy mountain access.
COL Index
128.5
1BR Rent
$1850
Sunny Days
300
State Income Tax
4.4%
#47
0
Score
Des Moines, IA
Insurance capital with low unemployment, farmers markets, and incredibly affordable living.
COL Index
90.5
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
200
State Income Tax
6%
#48
0
Score
Detroit, MI
Motor City is rebuilding with incredibly cheap housing, a growing arts scene, and Motown soul.
COL Index
92.8
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
180
State Income Tax
4.25%
#49
0
Score
Durham, NC
Bull City with Duke University, food scene, and Research Triangle innovation.
COL Index
98.5
1BR Rent
$1350
Sunny Days
218
State Income Tax
4.75%
#50
0
Score
Edinburgh, SCT
Scotland's stunning capital with a historic castle, world-famous festivals, and a strong finance and tech economy.
COL Index
105.8
1BR Rent
£1300
Sunny Days
132
Income Tax
20%
#51
0
Score
Edmonton, AB
Alberta's capital with the most affordable housing of any major Canadian city, a massive river valley park system, and no provincial sales tax.
COL Index
97.4
1BR Rent
C$1300
Sunny Days
234
Provincial Tax
10%
#52
0
Score
Eindhoven, NB
The Netherlands' technology and design capital, home to Philips and ASML, offering a modern, innovative environment with relatively affordable housing.
COL Index
74.5
1BR Rent
$1300
Sunny Days
165
State Income Tax
30%
#53
0
Score
El Paso, TX
Sun City on the border with the most affordable housing in Texas and stunning desert views.
COL Index
88.5
1BR Rent
$850
Sunny Days
297
State Income Tax
None
#54
0
Score
Elk Grove, CA
Sacramento suburb with diversity, parks, and more affordable than Bay Area.
COL Index
128.5
1BR Rent
$1900
Sunny Days
265
State Income Tax
9.3%
#55
0
Score
Eugene, OR
Track Town USA with University of Oregon, rain, and no sales tax.
COL Index
104.2
1BR Rent
$1400
Sunny Days
155
State Income Tax
8.75%
#56
0
Score
Fargo, ND
Lowest unemployment in America, brutal winters, and surprisingly vibrant arts scene.
COL Index
90.5
1BR Rent
$950
Sunny Days
200
State Income Tax
2.9%
#57
0
Score
Fayetteville, NC
Military town with Fort Bragg, affordable housing, and Southern hospitality.
COL Index
90.5
1BR Rent
$1000
Sunny Days
218
State Income Tax
4.75%
#58
0
Score
Fort Wayne, IN
Midwest affordability champion with three rivers, minor league baseball, and low taxes.
COL Index
86.5
1BR Rent
$900
Sunny Days
200
State Income Tax
3.23%
#59
0
Score
Fort Worth, TX
Where the West begins — cowboy culture meets modern city with no state income tax.
COL Index
98.5
1BR Rent
$1400
Sunny Days
232
State Income Tax
None
#60
0
Score
Fremont, CA
Bay Area suburb with Tesla, diverse Asian community, and Silicon Valley housing prices.
COL Index
178.5
1BR Rent
$2600
Sunny Days
260
State Income Tax
9.3%
#61
0
Score
Fresno, CA
Agricultural capital with proximity to Yosemite, cheaper than coastal CA, but hot summers.
COL Index
102.5
1BR Rent
$1300
Sunny Days
267
State Income Tax
9.3%
#62
0
Score
Garland, TX
Dallas suburb with diversity, Lake Ray Hubbard, and no state income tax.
COL Index
96.5
1BR Rent
$1250
Sunny Days
232
State Income Tax
None
#63
0
Score
Glasgow, SCT
Scotland's largest city known for its art scene, friendly locals, and some of the most affordable urban living in the UK.
COL Index
88.4
1BR Rent
£850
Sunny Days
126
Income Tax
20%
#64
0
Score
Glendale, AZ
Phoenix suburb with spring training, Westgate entertainment, and desert affordability.
COL Index
98.5
1BR Rent
$1300
Sunny Days
296
State Income Tax
2.59%
#65
0
Score
Grand Rapids, MI
Beer City USA with craft breweries, ArtPrize, and affordable Lake Michigan living.
COL Index
94.5
1BR Rent
$1150
Sunny Days
158
State Income Tax
4.25%
#66
0
Score
Greensboro, NC
Gate City with civil rights history, four seasons, and affordable Piedmont living.
COL Index
92.4
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
218
State Income Tax
4.75%
#67
0
Score
Greenville, SC
Falls Park on the Reedy with a stunning downtown revival and Southern hospitality.
COL Index
96.5
1BR Rent
$1300
Sunny Days
220
State Income Tax
6.5%
#68
0
Score
Groningen, GR
A vibrant, youthful student city in the north with a strong cultural scene, cycling culture, and the most affordable living costs among major Dutch cities.
COL Index
71
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
162
State Income Tax
30%
#69
0
Score
Halifax, NS
Atlantic Canada's largest city with a historic waterfront, growing tech sector, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
COL Index
93.5
1BR Rent
C$1450
Sunny Days
196
Provincial Tax
8.79%
#70
0
Score
Henderson, NV
Vegas suburb with master-planned communities, no state income tax, and desert luxury.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1550
Sunny Days
292
State Income Tax
None
#71
0
Score
Hialeah, FL
Cuban-American heart of Miami with Spanish-speaking culture, no state income tax.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1700
Sunny Days
248
State Income Tax
None
#72
0
Score
Honolulu, HI
Paradise with perfect weather, beaches, and the highest cost of living in the US.
COL Index
185.2
1BR Rent
$2200
Sunny Days
306
State Income Tax
8.25%
#73
0
Score
Houston, TX
Energy capital of the world with no state income tax, diverse culture, and affordable living.
COL Index
95.8
1BR Rent
$1300
Sunny Days
204
State Income Tax
None
#74
0
Score
Huntsville, AL
Rocket City with NASA, defense contractors, and the highest concentration of PhDs in America.
COL Index
94.5
1BR Rent
$1200
Sunny Days
210
State Income Tax
5%
#75
0
Score
Indianapolis, IN
Racing capital with a low cost of living, growing tech sector, and friendly Midwest vibe.
COL Index
91.5
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
186
State Income Tax
3.23%
#76
0
Score
Irvine, CA
Master-planned perfection with top schools, tech jobs, and Orange County prices.
COL Index
158.5
1BR Rent
$2800
Sunny Days
281
State Income Tax
9.3%
#77
0
Score
Irving, TX
Dallas suburb with corporate headquarters, DFW airport, and no state income tax.
COL Index
100.5
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
232
State Income Tax
None
#78
0
Score
Jackson, MS
Capital city with blues history, cheap housing, and Southern soul food.
COL Index
88.5
1BR Rent
$950
Sunny Days
216
State Income Tax
5%
#79
0
Score
Jacksonville, FL
Florida's largest city with beaches, no state income tax, and affordable living.
COL Index
96.8
1BR Rent
$1350
Sunny Days
221
State Income Tax
None
#80
0
Score
Jersey City, NJ
NYC's sixth borough with PATH trains, waterfront views, and slightly cheaper than Manhattan.
COL Index
142.5
1BR Rent
$2400
Sunny Days
205
State Income Tax
8.97%
#81
0
Score
Kansas City, KS
Kansas side of the metro with even cheaper housing and the same BBQ culture.
COL Index
90.5
1BR Rent
$1000
Sunny Days
215
State Income Tax
5.7%
#82
0
Score
Kansas City, MO
BBQ capital with jazz history, fountains, and incredibly affordable Midwest living.
COL Index
92.8
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
215
State Income Tax
5.4%
#83
0
Score
Key West, FL
Southernmost Point with conch culture, sunsets, and no state income tax in paradise.
COL Index
158.5
1BR Rent
$2800
Sunny Days
260
State Income Tax
None
#84
0
Score
Knoxville, TN
Scruffy City with UT Volunteers, Great Smoky Mountains, and no state income tax.
COL Index
92.5
1BR Rent
$1150
Sunny Days
204
State Income Tax
None
#85
0
Score
Laredo, TX
Border city with Mexican culture, international trade, and the cheapest living in Texas.
COL Index
88.5
1BR Rent
$900
Sunny Days
227
State Income Tax
None
#86
0
Score
Las Vegas, NV
Entertainment capital with no state income tax, 310 sunny days, and 24/7 energy.
COL Index
102.4
1BR Rent
$1400
Sunny Days
310
State Income Tax
None
#87
0
Score
Leeds, ENG
A major financial center in the north with a booming legal sector, vibrant nightlife, and affordable housing compared to London.
COL Index
91.7
1BR Rent
£900
Sunny Days
140
Income Tax
20%
#88
0
Score
Leiden, ZH
A picturesque university town famous for its canals, historic ties to the Pilgrims, and a relaxed, intellectual atmosphere close to The Hague and Amsterdam.
COL Index
76
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
175
State Income Tax
30%
#89
0
Score
Lexington, KY
Horse Capital of the World with bluegrass, bourbon, and affordable Southern charm.
COL Index
94.2
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
188
State Income Tax
5%
#90
0
Score
Lincoln, NE
Capital city with the lowest unemployment in America, college town energy, and affordability.
COL Index
92.5
1BR Rent
$1000
Sunny Days
214
State Income Tax
6.64%
#91
0
Score
Little Rock, AR
Rock Town with Clinton history, the Arkansas River, and very affordable living.
COL Index
88.5
1BR Rent
$950
Sunny Days
219
State Income Tax
4.9%
#92
0
Score
Liverpool, ENG
A cultural icon with legendary music heritage, waterfront regeneration, and some of the UK's most affordable city living.
COL Index
86.5
1BR Rent
£800
Sunny Days
144
Income Tax
20%
#93
0
Score
London, ENG
A global financial and cultural capital with world-class museums, diverse neighborhoods, and unmatched career opportunities — but housing costs are steep.
COL Index
135.2
1BR Rent
£2200
Sunny Days
148
Income Tax
20%
#94
0
Score
Long Beach, CA
Port city with waterfront, diversity, and a more relaxed vibe than LA.
COL Index
142.5
1BR Rent
$2100
Sunny Days
278
State Income Tax
9.3%
#95
0
Score
Los Angeles, CA
Entertainment capital with perfect weather, beaches, and a diverse economy — but housing costs are extreme.
COL Index
173.3
1BR Rent
$2800
Sunny Days
284
State Income Tax
9.3%
#96
0
Score
Louisville, KY
Derby City with bourbon, baseball bats, and affordable Southern living.
COL Index
91.2
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
195
State Income Tax
5%
#97
0
Score
Lubbock, TX
Hub City with Texas Tech, Buddy Holly, and the flattest terrain you'll ever see.
COL Index
88.5
1BR Rent
$950
Sunny Days
264
State Income Tax
None
#98
0
Score
Maastricht, LI
A historic, cosmopolitan city in the deep south with a distinct Burgundian flair, nestled between Belgium and Germany.
COL Index
74
1BR Rent
$1200
Sunny Days
165
State Income Tax
30%
#99
0
Score
Madison, WI
College town with lakes, bikes, beer, and one of the most educated populations in America.
COL Index
104.2
1BR Rent
$1350
Sunny Days
187
State Income Tax
6.27%
#100
0
Score
Manchester, ENG
A vibrant northern hub known for its music scene, football culture, and booming tech sector with relatively affordable living.
COL Index
98.5
1BR Rent
£1200
Sunny Days
142
Income Tax
20%
#101
0
Score
Manchester, NH
No state income or sales tax, close to Boston, and four distinct New England seasons.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
195
State Income Tax
None
#102
0
Score
Memphis, TN
Birthplace of rock 'n' roll with BBQ, blues on Beale Street, and no state income tax.
COL Index
88.5
1BR Rent
$950
Sunny Days
214
State Income Tax
None
#103
0
Score
Mesa, AZ
Phoenix suburb with affordable housing, spring training baseball, and desert recreation.
COL Index
102.5
1BR Rent
$1350
Sunny Days
301
State Income Tax
2.59%
#104
0
Score
Miami, FL
Tropical paradise with Latin culture, no state income tax, and a growing finance hub.
COL Index
145.6
1BR Rent
$2400
Sunny Days
248
State Income Tax
None
#105
0
Score
Milwaukee, WI
Brew City on Lake Michigan with summer festivals, cheap housing, and cheese curds.
COL Index
95.2
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
191
State Income Tax
6.27%
#106
0
Score
Minneapolis, MN
City of Lakes with parks, bike trails, and a thriving arts scene despite brutal winters.
COL Index
106.5
1BR Rent
$1400
Sunny Days
198
State Income Tax
7.25%
#107
0
Score
Mobile, AL
Port City with Mardi Gras origin, Gulf Coast beaches, and very affordable living.
COL Index
90.5
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
214
State Income Tax
5%
#108
0
Score
Modesto, CA
Central Valley agriculture hub with George Lucas roots, cheaper than Bay Area.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1400
Sunny Days
260
State Income Tax
9.3%
#109
0
Score
Montgomery, AL
Civil Rights history, Maxwell AFB, and some of the cheapest housing in America.
COL Index
90.5
1BR Rent
$1000
Sunny Days
218
State Income Tax
5%
#110
0
Score
Montreal, QC
A bilingual cultural capital with European charm, legendary festivals, and surprisingly affordable housing for a major metropolis.
COL Index
98.3
1BR Rent
C$1400
Sunny Days
200
Provincial Tax
14%
#111
0
Score
Myrtle Beach, SC
Golf capital with 60 miles of beaches, tourism, and affordable coastal living.
COL Index
96.5
1BR Rent
$1200
Sunny Days
218
State Income Tax
6.5%
#112
0
Score
Nashville, TN
Music City with live music everywhere, no state income tax, and booming healthcare.
COL Index
100.5
1BR Rent
$1600
Sunny Days
208
State Income Tax
None
#113
0
Score
New Orleans, LA
The Big Easy with jazz, Creole cuisine, Mardi Gras, and a culture unlike anywhere else.
COL Index
98.5
1BR Rent
$1400
Sunny Days
216
State Income Tax
4.25%
#114
0
Score
New York City, NY
The global capital of finance, culture, and opportunity — but it comes with the highest cost of living in the US.
COL Index
187.2
1BR Rent
$3800
Sunny Days
234
State Income Tax
6.85%
#115
0
Score
Newark, NJ
Gateway to NYC with improving downtown, port industry, and more affordable than Manhattan.
COL Index
118.5
1BR Rent
$1500
Sunny Days
205
State Income Tax
8.97%
#116
0
Score
Norfolk, VA
Naval base city with maritime history, Ghent district, and affordable coastal living.
COL Index
98.5
1BR Rent
$1250
Sunny Days
213
State Income Tax
5.75%
#117
0
Score
Oakland, CA
Bay Area alternative with diversity, art, and slightly more affordable housing than SF.
COL Index
158.4
1BR Rent
$2200
Sunny Days
259
State Income Tax
9.3%
#118
0
Score
Oklahoma City, OK
One of America's most affordable big cities with a revitalized downtown and Thunder basketball.
COL Index
88.2
1BR Rent
$950
Sunny Days
234
State Income Tax
4.75%
#119
0
Score
Omaha, NE
Warren Buffett's hometown with a thriving tech sector and rock-bottom cost of living.
COL Index
91.5
1BR Rent
$1050
Sunny Days
214
State Income Tax
6.64%
#120
0
Score
Orlando, FL
Theme park capital of the world with tourism jobs, no state income tax, and year-round sun.
COL Index
98.5
1BR Rent
$1550
Sunny Days
233
State Income Tax
None
#121
0
Score
Ottawa, ON
Canada's capital offers stable government employment, beautiful waterways, and a family-friendly environment with moderate costs.
COL Index
101.2
1BR Rent
C$1700
Sunny Days
208
Provincial Tax
5.05%
#122
0
Score
Oxnard, CA
Strawberry fields and beaches between LA and Santa Barbara with coastal California prices.
COL Index
138.5
1BR Rent
$2100
Sunny Days
273
State Income Tax
9.3%
#123
0
Score
Philadelphia, PA
Historic city with rich culture, walkable neighborhoods, and relatively affordable East Coast living.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1600
Sunny Days
207
State Income Tax
3.07%
#124
0
Score
Phoenix, AZ
Valley of the Sun with 300+ days of sunshine, affordable housing, and rapid growth.
COL Index
108.2
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
299
State Income Tax
2.59%
#125
0
Score
Pittsburgh, PA
Steel City transformed into a tech and medical hub with incredibly cheap housing.
COL Index
94.5
1BR Rent
$1150
Sunny Days
162
State Income Tax
3.07%
#126
0
Score
Plano, TX
Dallas suburb with corporate headquarters, excellent schools, and no state income tax.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1600
Sunny Days
232
State Income Tax
None
#127
0
Score
Portland, ME
Foodie paradise with lobster, lighthouses, and New England coastal charm.
COL Index
112.5
1BR Rent
$1650
Sunny Days
203
State Income Tax
7.15%
#128
0
Score
Portland, OR
Keep Portland Weird — craft beer, food trucks, and no sales tax in the rainy Pacific Northwest.
COL Index
118.2
1BR Rent
$1650
Sunny Days
144
State Income Tax
8.75%
#129
0
Score
Providence, RI
Creative Capital with Brown University, WaterFire, and New England charm.
COL Index
118.5
1BR Rent
$1600
Sunny Days
202
State Income Tax
5.99%
#130
0
Score
Quebec City, QC
A charming historic walled city with European flair, the lowest cost of living among major Canadian cities, and world-famous winter carnival.
COL Index
87.2
1BR Rent
C$1050
Sunny Days
192
Provincial Tax
14%
#131
0
Score
Raleigh, NC
Research Triangle hub with tech jobs, oak trees, and a balanced cost of living.
COL Index
102.4
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
220
State Income Tax
4.75%
#132
0
Score
Reno, NV
The Biggest Little City with no state income tax, Tahoe proximity, and a tech boom.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
252
State Income Tax
None
#133
0
Score
Richmond, VA
Capital of the Confederacy reborn with craft beer, murals, and historic charm.
COL Index
98.5
1BR Rent
$1300
Sunny Days
210
State Income Tax
5.75%
#134
0
Score
Riverside, CA
Inland Empire city with citrus heritage, cheaper than coastal CA, but still pricey.
COL Index
118.5
1BR Rent
$1700
Sunny Days
277
State Income Tax
9.3%
#135
0
Score
Rochester, NY
Flower City with Kodak history, universities, lake effect snow, and cheap housing.
COL Index
92.5
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
165
State Income Tax
6.85%
#136
0
Score
Rotterdam, ZH
Europe's largest port city, known for bold modern architecture, a diverse international community, and a more affordable alternative to Amsterdam.
COL Index
78.9
1BR Rent
$1627
Sunny Days
170
State Income Tax
30%
#137
0
Score
Sacramento, CA
California's capital with farm-to-fork dining, cheaper than Bay Area, and hot summers.
COL Index
118.5
1BR Rent
$1700
Sunny Days
269
State Income Tax
9.3%
#138
0
Score
Saint Paul, MN
Twin Cities' quieter half with historic architecture, hockey, and Midwest winters.
COL Index
104.2
1BR Rent
$1250
Sunny Days
198
State Income Tax
7.25%
#139
0
Score
Salem, OR
Oregon's capital with wine country, no sales tax, and Willamette Valley charm.
COL Index
102.5
1BR Rent
$1300
Sunny Days
154
State Income Tax
8.75%
#140
0
Score
Salt Lake City, UT
Mormon capital with world-class skiing, low unemployment, and stunning mountain scenery.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1500
Sunny Days
222
State Income Tax
4.95%
#141
0
Score
San Antonio, TX
Texas charm with the River Walk, historic missions, and no state income tax.
COL Index
92.4
1BR Rent
$1200
Sunny Days
220
State Income Tax
None
#142
0
Score
San Bernardino, CA
Inland Empire city with Route 66 history, mountains, and more affordable than coastal CA.
COL Index
108.5
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
280
State Income Tax
9.3%
#143
0
Score
San Diego, CA
Perfect weather, beaches, and biotech — but you'll pay a premium for paradise.
COL Index
154.2
1BR Rent
$2600
Sunny Days
266
State Income Tax
9.3%
#144
0
Score
San Francisco, CA
Tech capital with iconic landmarks — and the highest cost of living in America.
COL Index
269.3
1BR Rent
$3200
Sunny Days
259
State Income Tax
9.3%
#145
0
Score
San Jose, CA
Heart of Silicon Valley with the highest salaries — and housing costs — in America.
COL Index
214.5
1BR Rent
$3200
Sunny Days
257
State Income Tax
9.3%
#146
0
Score
Santa Ana, CA
Orange County hub with Latino culture, art districts, and expensive California living.
COL Index
142.8
1BR Rent
$2000
Sunny Days
278
State Income Tax
9.3%
#147
0
Score
Santa Fe, NM
The City Different with adobe architecture, art galleries, and 320 days of sunshine.
COL Index
112.5
1BR Rent
$1600
Sunny Days
283
State Income Tax
4.9%
#148
0
Score
Savannah, GA
Hostess City with Spanish moss, historic squares, and coastal Southern beauty.
COL Index
96.5
1BR Rent
$1400
Sunny Days
216
State Income Tax
5.75%
#149
0
Score
Scottsdale, AZ
Desert luxury with golf resorts, spas, art galleries, and premium Arizona living.
COL Index
118.5
1BR Rent
$1900
Sunny Days
299
State Income Tax
2.59%
#150
0
Score
Seattle, WA
Pacific Northwest tech hub with no state income tax, coffee culture, and stunning nature.
COL Index
172.1
1BR Rent
$2350
Sunny Days
152
State Income Tax
None
#151
0
Score
Sioux Falls, SD
No state income tax, booming economy, and the falls of the Big Sioux River.
COL Index
90.5
1BR Rent
$1000
Sunny Days
210
State Income Tax
None
#152
0
Score
Spokane, WA
Inland Northwest gateway with no state income tax, rivers, and four distinct seasons.
COL Index
98.5
1BR Rent
$1200
Sunny Days
174
State Income Tax
None
#153
0
Score
St. Petersburg, FL
Sunshine City with waterfront parks, art museums, and no state income tax on the Gulf.
COL Index
102.5
1BR Rent
$1550
Sunny Days
248
State Income Tax
None
#154
0
Score
Stockton, CA
Central Valley port city with waterfront revival, cheaper than Bay Area but still California prices.
COL Index
112.5
1BR Rent
$1450
Sunny Days
257
State Income Tax
9.3%
#155
0
Score
Tacoma, WA
Seattle's gritty neighbor with no state income tax, cheaper housing, and Mount Rainier views.
COL Index
112.5
1BR Rent
$1500
Sunny Days
142
State Income Tax
None
#156
0
Score
Tallahassee, FL
Florida's capital with FSU Seminoles, oak canopy roads, and no state income tax.
COL Index
96.5
1BR Rent
$1200
Sunny Days
234
State Income Tax
None
#157
0
Score
Tampa, FL
Sunshine and Cuban sandwiches on the Gulf Coast with no state income tax.
COL Index
102.8
1BR Rent
$1600
Sunny Days
246
State Income Tax
None
#158
0
Score
The Hague, ZH
The seat of Dutch government and international law, offering a refined coastal lifestyle with a high concentration of expats and diplomats.
COL Index
75.6
1BR Rent
$1492
Sunny Days
175
State Income Tax
30%
#159
0
Score
Tilburg, NB
A former textile hub turned modern Brabant city with a growing creative sector, strong logistics industry, and a more affordable, laid-back lifestyle.
COL Index
73
1BR Rent
$1150
Sunny Days
165
State Income Tax
30%
#160
0
Score
Toledo, OH
Glass City with incredibly cheap housing, Great Lakes access, and a manufacturing legacy.
COL Index
88.5
1BR Rent
$850
Sunny Days
180
State Income Tax
3.99%
#161
0
Score
Toronto, ON
Canada's largest and most diverse city, a global finance and tech hub with world-class dining — but housing costs are among the nation's highest.
COL Index
128.4
1BR Rent
C$2400
Sunny Days
206
Provincial Tax
5.05%
#162
0
Score
Tucson, AZ
College town with saguaro cacti, 286 sunny days, and affordable desert living.
COL Index
95.8
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
286
State Income Tax
2.59%
#163
0
Score
Tulsa, OK
Oil capital with Art Deco architecture, a $10K remote worker incentive, and cheap living.
COL Index
88.5
1BR Rent
$950
Sunny Days
227
State Income Tax
4.75%
#164
0
Score
Utrecht, UT
A charming medieval university city with a youthful energy, excellent central rail connections, and a canal-ringed historic core.
COL Index
76.5
1BR Rent
$1550
Sunny Days
170
State Income Tax
30%
#165
0
Score
Vancouver, BC
A stunning coastal city surrounded by mountains and ocean, offering outdoor paradise — but with Canada's highest housing costs.
COL Index
142.6
1BR Rent
C$2600
Sunny Days
193
Provincial Tax
7.7%
#166
0
Score
Victoria, BC
Canada's mildest city with beautiful gardens, a relaxed island lifestyle, and a popular retirement destination — but housing is costly.
COL Index
112.4
1BR Rent
C$1900
Sunny Days
210
Provincial Tax
7.7%
#167
0
Score
Virginia Beach, VA
Resort city with 35 miles of beaches, military presence, and East Coast charm.
COL Index
104.2
1BR Rent
$1500
Sunny Days
213
State Income Tax
5.75%
#168
0
Score
Washington DC, DC
Nation's capital with free museums, political energy, and a highly educated workforce.
COL Index
152.1
1BR Rent
$2400
Sunny Days
203
State Income Tax
8.95%
#169
0
Score
Wichita, KS
Air Capital of the World with aviation history, affordable housing, and Midwest friendliness.
COL Index
86.8
1BR Rent
$850
Sunny Days
225
State Income Tax
5.7%
#170
0
Score
Wilmington, NC
Port city with Riverwalk, film production, and coastal Carolina charm.
COL Index
98.5
1BR Rent
$1350
Sunny Days
218
State Income Tax
4.75%
#171
0
Score
Winnipeg, MB
The Prairie's cultural heart with a vibrant arts scene, affordable housing, and some of Canada's sunniest weather — but cold winters.
COL Index
88.6
1BR Rent
C$1100
Sunny Days
235
Provincial Tax
12.75%
#172
0
Score
Winston-Salem, NC
Twin City with tobacco history, Wake Forest, and affordable Piedmont living.
COL Index
92.5
1BR Rent
$1100
Sunny Days
218
State Income Tax
4.75%
#173
0
Score
Worcester, MA
Heart of the Commonwealth with colleges, cheaper than Boston, and New England seasons.
COL Index
118.5
1BR Rent
$1500
Sunny Days
197
State Income Tax
5%