By Jenna Weinerman

Published Apr 17, 2017

Updated Mar 21, 2024

If you’ve ever wondered, “Where should I live?” you may need a little moving guidance. Some personalities are great for cities and others for the slower-paced, suburban lifestyles. Everyone has a special place where they fit in. The only problem is narrowing down the thousands of possibilities. Whether you’re a teacher or a dog lover, there’s a city for you. Take some time to explore our list below. You might discover somewhere new!

Where should I live if…

I have kids?

According to a recent study, Overland Park in Kansas is the best place to raise a family. Based on five categories: family fun, health, education, affordability, and socioeconomics. Overland Park is number one, based on affordable housing, high family salaries, and education. If you’re looking to start a family or want to make a change, Overland Park could be the place for you.

My dog comes first?

Scottsdale, AZ is the absolute best place to own a dog. This city has 120 dog-friendly restaurants, ample dog parks, and is easy to walk around. Plus, with Scottsdale’s 299 days of sunshine, getting out and about with your pup won’t be a struggle.

I’m obsessed with French Bulldogs?

It’s hard not to fall for these little bundles. Luckily for you, Los Angeles has an obsession with French Bulldogs. Taking a walk down to the beach or heading downtown, you’re bound to come across a handful of Frenchies.

Where should I live if…

Elvis is my one and only?

If you can’t get enough of the King, Memphis, TN is your next home. At Graceland, Elvis Presley’s mansion, checkout his car collection, and admire his airplanes. When you aren’t exploring the house, there’s plenty to keep you busy in downtown Memphis. Live soul music, delicious BBQ, and eclectic street art are a few attractions. The National Civil Rights Museum, also in Memphis, offers a full day of exploration with over 260 artifacts.

I don’t drive?

No car? No problem! New York City is the most walkable large city in the U.S. Subways, bike lanes, and buses, give residents plenty of options for commuting. Not a fan of public transportation? There are cabs, Ubers and Lyfts, and black cars to chauffeur you. But given the city’s density, you’ll be able to reach most of your destinations on foot.

If you’re worried about feeling trapped, don’t. NYC is constantly changing, bringing in new restaurants, bars, shops, and amusements year-round. Not to mention the museums, parks, and historic sites. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle, jump on a PATH, NJTransit or Amtrak to get out of the city and into the country.

I can never have too much sun?

How much sun is too much? According to you, that’s an impossible question. If you can’t get enough sun, Yuma, AZ is your next home. With an average of 308 sunny days each year, this city is the sunniest in the US. Spend your days outside (or in) exploring the Yuma Conservation or inside Yuma’s Art Center. Whatever you choose to do, the sun will be there.

Where should I live if…

I’m a teacher?

If you want to make a difference teaching, Akron, OH is the place for you. This city has everything. Attractions include an independent movie theater and the Lock 3 which hosts events year round. Along with these fun cultural hubs, Akron’s a great city for teaching. Akron saw an 18% increase in teaching jobs from 2014-2016. As a teacher, Akron is a great place to share your knowledge.

I plan to start my own business?

You might be thinking Silicone Vally or NYC, but the best place to start your own business is in Austin, TX. In Austin, people aren’t afraid to push the envelope and try something new. The startup scene has been on a steady incline since 2016 when it grew 81.2%. Home to innovators, creatives, and low taxes, Austin is small-business friendly city.

I can speak 4+ languages?

Speaking many languages is a unique skill. If you want to test your language skills and experience the full effect of a melting pot, Queens, NY is the place for you. NYC is home to 800 languages and Queens is its largest borough. People from all over the globe move here. Moving to Queens lets you practice your linguistic abilities.

Where should I live if…

I’m an avid cyclist?

Do you commute by bike or you spend your weekends tackling the rugged outdoors? Whatever way you use your bike, it’s important to feel safe while riding. Fort Collins, CO has regulations to help cyclists and automobiles travel safely together. This is one of the many reasons Fort Collins is the best place for you and your bike.

Where should I live if…

I want to ski year round?

If you’re a skiing fanatic, you want all the snow you can get for as many months as possible. Luckily for you, Timberline, OR has the longest snow season in the U.S. Timberline Lodge sits atop a volcano on Mt. Hood. This 7000’ high lodge provides almost year-round skiing from October to May. So if you can’t stay away from the slopes, Timberlane is the city for you.

I need a daily doughnut fix?

Forget bagels or pancakes. For you, doughnuts are the best breakfast. If this sounds like you, Boston is waiting. Home to the Boston creme, Boston ranks as the best city for doughnuts. Boston has the most doughnut shops per square mile. It also has and the most restaurants serving doughnuts per capita.

Where should I live if…

I hate the beach?

You don’t get it when people long for the sand between their toes or the wind air in their hair. It’s okay to hate the beach because there are plenty of cities to choose from that are away from the coast. But you don’t want any city. Phoenix is the largest non-coastal city in the U.S. It’s also a great place if you hate the beach but love boardwalk culture. Phoenix ranks in the top 20 places to live thanks to its modest commute times, fair home prices, and high quality of life.

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I could watch live jazz every night?

If jazz music gets your toes tapping, New Orleans is the place for you. With daily jazz, this city has plenty to keep you busy. Take a walk through the French Quarter, mosey on over to the Marigny, and end your night on St. Claude Avenue. You’ll have a chance to try the local gumbo and enjoy the birthplace of jazz.

I hate skyscrapers?

If you want a city feel but hate skyscrapers, D.C. is a good fit for you. It is the only large city without a single skyscraper. You get the benefit of a walkable city bursting with history, as well as a view of the stars.

Where should I live if…

I’m a history buff?

Are your bookshelves lined with history books? Is your Netflix queue full of documentaries? If so, Philadelphia is the city for you. Discover America’s past by walking the Historic American Revolution Trail. Then, visit the African American Museum. There’s plenty of historical sites to keep you busy. Not to mention, many modern restaurants and culture if you want to change it up!

I love tattoos?

Miami is the home of the hit show “Miami Ink” for a good reason. It is one of the top 10 most-tattooed cities in the US. This coastal city is bursting with tattoo parlors and tattooed beach-goers. Whether you’re looking for some new ink yourself or only want to admire the artwork, Miami is sure to deliver.

For the best school system?

Massachusetts has the best school system in the country based on safety and quality. Students in Massachusetts excel in both reading and math. They also have some of the highest ACT scores in the US. Massachusetts also has an extremely low bullying rate which makes it a clear leader in public education

We hope this list helps you narrow down your search for a new city! Still deciding where you should live? Take your time, look around, and you’re sure to find the right city, state, or suburb for you.

Jenna Weinerman

Jenna is Updater’s VP of Marketing and a published ReloTech expert. She’s an endless seeker of knowledge, a lover of craft brews, and a huge Philadelphia sports fan. Follow her on X here.