With it topping the recent National Association of Realtor’s list of best cities to live in the United States for 2022, Naples, Florida, is undoubtedly an attractive option for anybody looking for an enjoyable lifestyle. This South Florida paradise boasts several features contributing to its attractiveness, like excellent safety, options for affordable living, robust education and medical services, and cultural activities to enjoy. All this makes Naples an excellent place for relocating or checking out.
It is no surprise that Florida is a highly desirable place to live, with many people relocating to the Sunshine State in 2022, according to a National Association of Realtors report National Association of Realtors. But which cities are the best places to live? A scholar recently analyzed the United States on an academic website scholar analyzed the United States and identified the top 50 cities to live in. Several Florida cities made a list – with one city at number one. Florida is a great place to call home!
Naples, Florida, was named the top place to live in the United States in 2023 for its excellent safety, affordability, economy, quality of life, healthcare, education, opportunity, and infrastructure. Specifically, the site looked at things like the cost of living, the homeownership rate, the weather, air quality, public parks, restaurants, hospital and doctor availability, graduation rates, unemployment, the number of airports, and the condition of bridges – all factors that made Naples a standout city. Unsurprisingly, Naples was determined to be the best place to call home in the US.
Naples is located on the Gulf of Mexico in South Florida; it offers balmy weather, access to stunning beaches, and excellent water sports activities. It also boasts world-class shopping, arts, and culture and is home to Naples Botanical Garden and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Despite this, living in Naples comes at a price, with the median home price just under $750,000.
Popular Attractions in Tampa
Naples topped the list of the top 50 cities in Florida, but several others were also mentioned. Tampa was recognized for its affordability and attractions, number 14. With a mean home price of $395,000 and access to beaches and parks, Tampa is a waterfront city with plenty of activities for visitors and residents alike. From Zoo Tampa, the Florida Aquarium, and Busch Gardens to its downtown Riverwalk, there are many ways to enjoy the city’s beauty and charm.
Melbourne ranked at number 21, offers a unique combination of beaches, historical charm, and relative affordability. With an average home price of $398,000 and access to the Broward Zoo and Sebastian Inlet State Park, Melbourne is an excellent choice for those looking to experience Florida’s Space Coast. Its downtown area dates back to the 1800s, offering residents a glimpse into the city’s past.
Pensacola came in at number 33, providing panhandle charm with a strong military presence. Located in northern Florida, Pensacola boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the state and has a rich history that dates back to the 1500s. Despite its age, the median home price remains relatively low at $310,000, making it an affordable option for potential homeowners.
Fort Myers ranked 38, is a beautiful city in southwest Florida. It boasts some of the most stunning beaches, and its shelling opportunities are renowned. Not only that, but it is also home to the Edison and Ford winter estates, where visitors can get a glimpse into the lives of two of history’s most famous inventors. Additionally, Fort Myers hosts spring training for the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins—Home prices in this desirable destination average at around $400,000.
Representation from All Regions of the Country
Representation from all regions of the United States is reflected in the top 50 cities list. Naples, Tampa, Melbourne, Carmel, and Alpharetta are the five Florida cities that cut. There are also cities from other states, including Naperville, Illinois; Amherst, New Hampshire; Portland, Maine; Madison, Mississippi; Papillion, Nebraska; Leawood, Kansas; Cambridge, Massachusetts; Lincoln, Nebraska; Green Bay, Wisconsin; Charleston, South Carolina; Woodstock, Vermont; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Greenville, South Carolina; Zionsville, Indiana; Manchester, New Hampshire; and Rapid City, South Dakota.
The list of the top 50 cities in the United States is impressive, representing all regions. Of particular note are the five cities from Florida that made the cut – Naples, Tampa, Melbourne, Carmel, and Alpharetta. The remaining cities include Naperville, Illinois; Amherst, New Hampshire; Portland, Maine; Madison, Mississippi; Papillion, Nebraska; Leawood, Kansas; Cambridge, Massachusetts; Lincoln, Nebraska; Green Bay, Wisconsin; Charleston, South Carolina; Woodstock, Vermont; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Greenville, South Carolina; Zionsville, Indiana; Manchester, New Hampshire; and Rapid City, South Dakota.
From the Midwest, we have Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Jersey City, New Jersey; Atlanta, Georgia; Boise, Idaho; Lakeville, Minnesota; Fayetteville, Arkansas; Murfreesboro, Tennessee; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Brookings, South Dakota; Des Moines, Iowa; Pensacola, Florida; Needham, Massachusetts; Clayton, Missouri; Omaha, Nebraska; Brandon, South Dakota; Fort Myers, Florida; Melrose, Massachusetts; and Fargo, North Dakota. The list includes Columbus, Ohio; Charleston, West Virginia; Bixby, Oklahoma; Ann Arbor, Michigan; Austin, Texas; and Jacksonville, Florida. With such a diverse array of cities, it’s no wonder these places are amongst the best in the country!
From the Gulf Coast to the Great Plains and the Appalachians to the Rockies, these cities represent the rich culture and vibrant history of the United States.
Florida is an excellent state for relocation, and those looking for a new place to call home should consider the cities of Naples. From excellent affordability, economy, healthcare, and infrastructure to great shopping, arts, and cultural entertainment, there are many reasons why Naples is at the top of the list regarding the best places to live in America in 2022. Though living in such a beautiful and desirable location does sound costly, with the median price of around $750,000, this cost should not deter potential residents who believe that living in a picturesque and ideal setting such as Naples is worth it.