Austin and Texas Cities Shine in U.S. News Quality of Life Rankings
In a recent announcement by U.S. News & World Report, Austin and three other Texas cities earned recognition in the rankings of the best places to live, emphasizing their high quality of life. This new list, released on July 11, forms part of U.S. News’ broader Best Places to Live rankings, which this time focused exclusively on quality of life factors such as education, healthcare, crime rates, air quality, and resilience against natural disasters.
Top Contenders in Quality of Life
Topping the list is Brookline, Massachusetts, followed closely by Newton, Maryland, and Bethesda, Maryland. The list also features Bellevue, Washington, and Malden, Massachusetts, rounding out the top five. These cities were recognized for their excellent living conditions, where factors contributing to happiness and well-being are prioritized.
Austin’s Impressive Standing
Austin clinched the 13th spot overall, making it the highest-ranked city in Texas. Renowned for its innovative spirit and thriving tech scene, U.S. News highlighted Austin’s robust job market that appeals to major corporations like IBM, Dell, and Tesla. With a population drawn to both career opportunities and lifestyle, Austin continues to assert its place as a desirable location.
Cultural and Recreational Hub
A distinctive facet of Austin is its celebrated reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” This title is substantiated by over 200 music venues, not to mention iconic festivals like South by Southwest and the Austin City Limits Music Festival, which attract visitors from all corners of the globe. The city blends urban vibrancy with a rich cultural tapestry, contributing significantly to its livability.
Breathtaking Natural Spaces
Despite being a bustling urban center, Austin stands out for its impressive air quality, ranking in the top 5 percent nationally. The city offers nearly 20,000 acres of green spaces for residents to enjoy hiking, swimming, and picnicking. This balance of urban life with access to nature makes Austin an attractive option for those seeking a well-rounded quality of life.
Educational Excellence and Healthcare Access
The report underscores Austin’s commendable performance in education and healthcare. It ranks in the top 20 percent nationally for college readiness and has favorable access to healthcare services. With institutions like the University of Texas at Austin further strengthening its educational landscape, Austin is particularly appealing to families and young professionals.
Economic Indicators
According to U.S. News, the median household income in Austin stands at a notable $96,149. Individuals looking for a home in this dynamic city will find that the median home value exceeds $584,000. While housing prices may be on the higher side, residents benefit from the city’s vibrant job market and lifestyle opportunities.
Other Texas Cities on the Rise
Following closely behind Austin, Houston earned the 15th spot in the rankings. This metropolitan hub, known for its diverse economy and cultural influences, offers its own unique blend of opportunities. Dallas ranked 20th, showcasing its status as a major business center, while McAllen came in at 23rd. Notably, McAllen offers pleasant year-round weather and boasts a vibrant business scene focused on retail, international trade, and manufacturing.
McAllen’s Unique Offerings
Situated on the Mexico border, McAllen exemplifies a bicultural community with distinct advantages. It ranks No. 32 for college readiness and stands out for its relatively short commute times, averaging just 18.3 minutes—less than the national average of 22 minutes. Moreover, it claims the No. 9 spot for cost of living, making it one of the most affordable places to live in the state.
The Quality of Life Rankings Overview
For those curious about the U.S. News’ top ten cities recognized for their high quality of life, here’s a summarized list:
- Brookline, Massachusetts
- Newton, Massachusetts
- Bethesda, Maryland
- Bellevue, Washington
- Malden, Massachusetts
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Kirkland, Washington
- Rockville, Maryland
- Passaic, New Jersey
With these commendations, both Austin and other Texas cities continue to be recognized for their exceptional living conditions, each offering unique qualities that cater to a wide variety of lifestyles and preferences.
