HUNTSVILLE – Green Bay apparently put on a late push to unseat Huntsville for the top spot in the U.S. News & World Report 2023-2024 Best Places to Live in the nation list.
The rankings unveiled today rate the country’s 150 most populous metropolitan areas based on value, desirability, job market and quality of life.
Green Bay, Wis., ascended two positions to capture No. 1 due to its strong value and quality of life scores, the magazine said, knocking Huntsville down to No. 2.
However, Huntsville’s thriving job market, low cost of living and high quality of life were cited as primary reasons for its ranking.
Mayor Tommy Battle said he is proud of the city’s achievement.
“We have always known that Huntsville is a great place to live, work, and play,” he said. “It is an honor to receive this recognition and to share our city’s story with the rest of the country.”
In the past 10 years, Huntsville has watched its star steadily rise to claim top tier placements in numerous national standings. In criteria ranging from affordability to jobs, quality of life, retirement, education, recreation and more, Huntsville has solidified its position as a thriving and desirable city.
“Huntsville is proud to once again join this impressive listing of dynamic cities,” Battle said. “Whether we’re No. 2, No. 1 or No. 15, we’ll continue our focus on sustainable growth and maintaining the exceptional quality of life that our residents deserve.”
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.
“This year’s rankings are a reflection of the current economic, social and natural factors that impact a place’s livability for its residents,” said Devon Thorsby, real estate editor at U.S. News. “People are considering more than housing when they look at an area’s affordability – they want to know how much goods cost in that area. The ever-present risk for severe weather and a community’s ability to recover – coupled with the area’s opportunities for social activities – are also taken into account when evaluating a best place to live.”
2023-2024 U.S. News Best Places to Live – Top 10
1. Green Bay, Wis.
2. HUNTSVILLE
3. Raleigh & Durham, N.C.
4. Boulder, Colo.
5. Sarasota, Fla.
6. Naples, Fla.
7. Portland, Maine
8. Charlotte, N.C.
9. Colorado Springs, Colo.
10. Fayetteville, Ark.
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