WASHINGTON, May 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — U.S. News & World Report has released the 2026-2027 Best Places to Live rankings, which evaluate U.S. cities based on affordability, desirability, job market, and quality of life. For the first time in the history of the ranking, two neighboring suburbs have claimed the top spots. Carmel, Indiana, near Indianapolis, secured the No. 1 position due to high scores in desirability, affordability, and job market. Fishers, also in Indiana, came in at No. 2, scoring well in affordability and quality of life.
According to Erika Giovanetti, consumer lending analyst at U.S. News & World Report, these rankings provide consumers with insights into the best places to live in the U.S. that meet their livability needs. Texas had a strong presence in the top 10, with Flower Mound and Frisco, Dallas suburbs, taking the third and ninth spots. Other cities in the top 10 include Ankeny, Iowa; Johns Creek, Georgia; Hoover, Alabama; and Rochester Hills, Michigan.
The rankings were determined using a methodology that measures the city’s job market, value, quality of life, and desirability. Consumer sentiment played a key role in the rankings, emphasizing affordability as a top priority for many Americans when choosing a place to live. U.S. News’ Real Estate division, which includes Best Places to Live, helps individuals make informed decisions about where to live and retire, understand the housing market, evaluate home values, and work with real estate agents.
The top 10 cities in the 2026-2027 Best Places to Live rankings are: 1. Carmel, IN 2. Fishers, IN 3. Flower Mound, TX 4. Ankeny, IA 5. Johns Creek, GA 6. Hoover, AL 7. Rochester Hills, MI 8. Leander, TX 9. Frisco, TX 10. Sugar Land, TX
For more information on Best Places to Live, follow #BestPlaces on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X. U.S. News & World Report is a trusted source for unbiased rankings, independent reporting, and consumer advice across various aspects of life.
