Using data from Niche, Stacker compiled a list of the best places to live in the Midwest, including a maximum of 15 places per state.
1 January 2021
Best places to live in the Midwest
Although the Midwest region of the United States has been derogatorily referred to as “flyover country” in some instances, millions of Americans are more than happy to make their homes within these states. The cost of living tends to be cheaper, and the people are often naturally friendly.
The Midwest is also a great example of the United States’ diversity. There are plenty of small towns, from University Heights, Iowa, to Westwood, Kansas. Then there are the big cities, like Chicago, the Twin Cities, St. Louis, Detroit, Milwaukee, and more. But one increasingly viable option for everyone (from young professionals to families to retirees) is to live in suburbs with easy access to the city. In fact, many Midwestern suburbs consistently rank at the top of the best U.S. places to live lists. Why? They offer a close-knit feel, with good access to nature and safe neighborhoods. Meanwhile, they’re also located close enough to major urban areas that adults are easily able to commute into the city and access thousands of job opportunities.
Living in the American Heartland can be great, but unless you’re choosing to move somewhere where you already have family or friends, figuring out exactly which city or suburb to live in can be a daunting task—after all, there are thousands of communities spanning 12 American states. That’s why Stacker is here to help you determine the best Midwestern spot for you and your loved ones.
Stacker created a list of the best places to live in the Midwest as of 2020, using data from the review site Niche. Cities, towns, and suburbs in the following states were considered: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. A maximum of 15 places per state were included.
Counting down from Waukee, Iowa at #100 to Carmel, Indiana at #1, here are the 100 best places to live in the Midwest. Get comfy and then read on to see if your hometown or potential new home made the list.
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#100. Waukee, Iowa
– Population: 19,344
– Median home value: $221,500 (75% own)
– Median rent: $1,098 (25% rent)
– Median household income: $87,433
The city of Waukee has been rapidly growing in the past decade, going from 13,790 in 2010 to almost 20,000 by the end of the decade. It’s a suburb of Des Moines, Iowa, and has experienced growth thanks to an Apple Inc. data center campus in the works.
#99. Mission, Kansas
– Population: 9,437
– Median home value: $169,500 (46% own)
– Median rent: $944 (54% rent)
– Median household income: $60,875
Mission, Kansas is a suburb of Kansas City and only a handful of miles away from the city’s downtown. Mission’s official website boasts that residents can enjoy “big city services,” with the city’s “safe and friendly residential atmosphere.”
#98. Bettendorf, Iowa
– Population: 35,793
– Median home value: $204,700 (76% own)
– Median rent: $902 (24% rent)
– Median household income: $78,676
Bettendorf is part of what’s known as the “Quad Cities” metropolitan area, which encompasses several cities around the Mississippi River in Iowa and Illinois. Its economy is supported by big manufacturers like Alcoa and John Deere. Meanwhile, it’s 90 minutes from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and only three hours from Chicago.
#97. Shawnee, Kansas
– Population: 65,239
– Median home value: $225,900 (73% own)
– Median rent: $966 (27% rent)
– Median household income: $84,507
This Kansas City suburb is within commuting distance of downtown Kansas City, while also employing Shawnee locals, thanks to Bayer Healthcare’s Shawnee offices. In 2010, CNN Money ranked it on its list of “Best Places to Live,” writing, “Taking a walk through Shawnee Town is like walking back through time to the city’s roots as a farming center.” Ten years later, the small-town vibe still holds.
#96. Roeland Park, Kansas
– Population: 6,796
– Median home value: $164,100 (74% own)
– Median rent: $1,125 (26% rent)
– Median household income: $70,514
Roeland Park is one of the smaller suburbs in Kansas City’s metropolis, located near the city’s historic Plaza shopping district and Power and Light District. Sharice Davids, a Kansas Congresswoman who is the first openly gay Native American in the House of Representatives, currently resides there.
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#95. Plymouth, Minnesota
– Population: 77,213
– Median home value: $340,700 (72% own)
– Median rent: $1,300 (28% rent)
– Median household income: $100,280
Plymouth is one of the larger suburbs of the major city of Minneapolis. Located along the Mississippi River and not far from the Wisconsin border, its official website notes that “its lake and rolling terrain provide the backdrop for a blend of well-planned residential, business, and commercial-industrial areas.”
#94. Meridian Hills, Indiana
– Population: 1,834
– Median home value: $471,000 (96% own)
– Median rent: $2,667 (4% rent)
– Median household income: $180,000
This suburb lies just north of Indianapolis. It’s particularly known for its wooded community and small-town feel, and was first established in 1937.
#93. Mission Hills, Kansas
– Population: 3,580
– Median home value: $976,200 (99% own)
– Median rent: data not available (1% rent)
– Median household income: $250,001
This Kansas City suburb has an elite history—it was first conceived by J.C. Nichols, a prominent Kansas City designer who envisioned it as an exclusive community for the wealthy back in the 1920s. In 2019 Business Insider named Mission Hills as the wealthiest suburb in the state, with a median home value a whopping $978,500.
#92. Clive, Iowa
– Population: 17,195
– Median home value: $252,500 (80% own)
– Median rent: $893 (20% rent)
– Median household income: $101,616
Clive, Iowa is a small city within the Des Moines metropolitan area. It’s best-known for its Greenbelt Park, a trail and parks system that stretches throughout the entire community.
#91. Coralville, Iowa
– Population: 20,645
– Median home value: $224,300 (53% own)
– Median rent: $892 (47% rent)
– Median household income: $65,387
Coralville is located a stone’s throw from Iowa City, a major college town thanks to the University of Iowa. It’s separated from the city by the Iowa River, and features a mix of families and young professionals who recently graduated.
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#90. Lawrence, Kansas
– Population: 95,294
– Median home value: $188,100 (46% own)
– Median rent: $892 (54% rent)
– Median household income: $50,429
Lawrence, Kansas is a hip town thanks to hosting two college campuses, the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University. Apart from its bustling nightlife and culture scene, Lawrence also has pop culture ties—in 2020, it was officially named as the hometown of “Supernatural” lead characters Sam and Dean Winchester.
#89. Lenexa, Kansas
– Population: 53,051
– Median home value: $248,800 (62% own)
– Median rent: $1,089 (38% rent)
– Median household income: $84,370
This Kansas City town has plenty of national corporate ties that set it apart from other nearby parts of the metropolitan area. The technology company Garmin was started there, and it once served as Applebee’s headquarters.
#88. Chanhassen, Minnesota
– Population: 25,357
– Median home value: $378,200 (86% own)
– Median rent: $1,272 (14% rent)
– Median household income: $118,885
Chanhassen is a tiny suburb of Minneapolis, with plenty of access to Twin Cities nature like the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. CNN Money ranked it as the fourth best American small town in 2013, noting that it also has major employers like the Mayo Clinic and Target.
#87. Middleton, Wisconsin
– Population: 19,235
– Median home value: $326,100 (53% own)
– Median rent: $1,051 (47% rent)
– Median household income: $74,141
With the motto “The Good Neighbor City,” Middleton serves as a great gateway to the Wisconsin capital city of Madison. The suburb hosts jobs courtesy of the big companies Electronic Theater Controls and PPD, and is even home to the National Mustard Museum.
#86. Manchester, Missouri
– Population: 18,189
– Median home value: $224,900 (76% own)
– Median rent: $1,007 (24% rent)
– Median household income: $79,414
Manchester is a St. Louis suburb, and was named after Manchester, England when the town was first settled. According to its website, Manchester aims to be the “most attractive living and shopping destination in West County.” Its official city motto commits to “A Proud Past, A Bright Future.”
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#85. Shoreview, Minnesota
– Population: 26,627
– Median home value: $265,400 (82% own)
– Median rent: $1,228 (18% rent)
– Median household income: $87,920
Located near the Twin Cities, the town provides residents with access to jobs at United Healthcare, Best Buy and General Mills, just a few major companies with roots nearby.
#84. Mequon, Wisconsin
– Population: 23,984
– Median home value: $391,700 (85% own)
– Median rent: $1,321 (15% rent)
– Median household income: $113,627
Mequon is a suburb of Milwaukee and located along the shores of Lake Michigan. Despite its urban proximity, the town is still largely driven by agricultural work, giving a small-town feel to residents.
#83. University Heights, Iowa
– Population: 1,206
– Median home value: $279,600 (59% own)
– Median rent: $1,416 (41% rent)
– Median household income: $67,321
Residents of University Heights have access to both a family-oriented smaller town and the hustle and bustle of college life. The Iowa suburb is located near Iowa City’s University of Iowa campus, including football games at the school’s Kinnick Stadium.
#82. Granger, Indiana
– Population: 30,815
– Median home value: $209,800 (95% own)
– Median rent: $1,332 (5% rent)
– Median household income: $103,230
Granger is a suburb of South Bend, Indiana, and part of a chunk of southern Michigan and northern Indiana dubbed “Michiana.” Since South Bend originally hosted the Studebaker Motor Company, the mid-sized city still provides plenty of manufacturing and automotive jobs. It’s also close to Notre Dame University, adding plenty of nightlife and college-adjacent businesses.
#81. Town and Country, Missouri
– Population: 11,066
– Median home value: $726,600 (86% own)
– Median rent: $1,114 (14% rent)
– Median household income: $178,000
Town and Country isn’t just one of the wealthiest towns in St. Louis or Missouri—it’s also one of the wealthiest towns in the country. The suburb is home to highly rated public schools and restaurants, with a high percentage of homeowners.
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#80. Mount Vernon, Iowa
– Population: 4,454
– Median home value: $216,800 (74% own)
– Median rent: $758 (26% rent)
– Median household income: $82,656
Located close to the city of Cedar Rapids, Mount Vernon’s hip, artsy vibe helped it make Budget Travel’s list of the coolest American small towns. As local Lincoln Cafe owner Matt Steigerwald put it, “There’s a certain amount of culture here that’s not as unapproachable as in a larger city.”
#79. Grosse Pointe, Michigan
– Population: 5,218
– Median home value: $348,800 (82% own)
– Median rent: $1,177 (18% rent)
– Median household income: $108,083
Located around eight miles from Detroit, Gross Pointe comprises several affluent neighborhoods near Lake St. Clair. The suburb has one of the most highly regarded K-12 education systems in the country, as well as an extensive retail district called The Village.
#78. La Grange, Illinois
– Population: 15,632
– Median home value: $480,500 (83% own)
– Median rent: $1,176 (17% rent)
– Median household income: $121,425
This Chicago suburb is located about 13 miles from the city’s downtown Loop, and is well-regarded for its school systems. La Grange is also known for its extensive annual Pet Parade, which began in 1947.
#77. Lauderdale, Minnesota
– Population: 2,514
– Median home value: $192,600 (50% own)
– Median rent: $934 (50% rent)
– Median household income: $50,909
Residents of Lauderdale, Minnesota, are able to experience both a suburban small town and easy access to the Twin Cities, making it a good home for both families and young professionals. It’s also one of the only suburbs to connect with both St. Paul and Minneapolis.
#76. Cedarburg, Wisconsin
– Population: 11,501
– Median home value: $296,200 (70% own)
– Median rent: $840 (30% rent)
– Median household income: $85,077
Apart from offering an accessible gateway to downtown Milwaukee, Cedarburg’s local economy also benefits significantly from tourism. The town began as a German-American community, with eight properties on the National Register of Historic Places, and numerous festivals to celebrate Cedarburg’s heritage.
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#75. Libertyville, Illinois
– Population: 20,480
– Median home value: $437,000 (80% own)
– Median rent: $1,334 (20% rent)
– Median household income: $130,732
This prosperous northern Chicago suburb lies just five miles from Lake Michigan, with over 84 nearby restaurants to easily access. It’s a little under 40 miles from Chicago, allowing residents to easily commute to the major city while enjoying a more idyllic small-town life.
#74. Highland Park, Illinois
– Population: 29,731
– Median home value: $575,800 (83% own)
– Median rent: $1,735 (17% rent)
– Median household income: $147,962
This North Shore Chicago suburb offers plenty of residential beach access thanks to Moraine Beach, Park Avenue Beach, and Rosewood Beach. It’s home to many professional athletes, especially since the Chicago Bulls’ practice facility lies in nearby Deerwood. It’s also a regular in Hollywood movies, appearing in location shots for John Hughes movies like “Sixteen Candles” and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.”
#73. Wheaton, Illinois
– Population: 53,480
– Median home value: $350,300 (73% own)
– Median rent: $1,353 (27% rent)
– Median household income: $98,544
Located around 25 miles from Chicago, Wheaton is one of the city’s more religious suburbs. It’s the home of the well-regarded evangelical school Wheaton College, with many churches in the town. It also doubles as something of a college town in general, also home to the Illinois Institute of Technology’s Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Campus.
#72. Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan
– Population: 9,224
– Median home value: $341,500 (93% own)
– Median rent: $1,416 (7% rent)
– Median household income: $132,853
This Detroit suburb also sits near Lake St. Clair and the Canadian border. The suburban town employs quite a few people through Sage Communications and the Henry Ford Medical Center.
#71. Warson Woods, Missouri
– Population: 1,915
– Median home value: $423,200 (98% own)
– Median rent: $1,438 (2% rent)
– Median household income: $131,731
The St. Louis suburb Warson Woods hosts well-regarded public schools and a number of retirees. It’s also eco-friendly, since it’s recognized as a Tree City U.S.A. town.
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#70. Fox Point, Wisconsin
– Population: 6,688
– Median home value: $322,000 (84% own)
– Median rent: $1,233 (16% rent)
– Median household income: $116,438
Milwaukee suburb Fox Point lies on Lake Michigan, boasting “quiet tree-lined lands and wooded areas, beautiful ravines, and stunning Lake Michigan vistas.” It’s also only 90 miles away from Chicago, and features the historic Mary Nohl Art Environment and Albert and Edith Adelman House.
#69. Bayside, Wisconsin
– Population: 4,529
– Median home value: $349,400 (77% own)
– Median rent: $1,359 (23% rent)
– Median household income: $101,250
Milwaukee’s Bayside Village also extends into Illinois and Lake Michigan, offering easy access into the city through venues like Highway 32 and Highway 100. It also lies near a number of educational institutions, like the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Marquette University.
#68. Haslett, Michigan
– Population: 19,721
– Median home value: $187,300 (62% own)
– Median rent: $841 (38% rent)
– Median household income: $65,458
The town of Haslett, Michigan is perhaps best-regarded for its natural amenities. It lies on Lake Lansing, which is also the home of Lansing Sailing Club and Michigan State University.
#67. Fairway, Kansas
– Population: 3,947
– Median home value: $352,200 (92% own)
– Median rent: $1,336 (8% rent)
– Median household income: $105,000
Named for its proximity to a number of golf courses, the Kansas City suburb Fairway is officially known as the ”City of Trees.” Near the metro, it has both a rural and urban feel, with more of a historically conservative populace than other parts of Kansas City.
#66. Edina, Minnesota
– Population: 51,136
– Median home value: $459,200 (72% own)
– Median rent: $1,351 (28% rent)
– Median household income: $99,295
The affluent suburb of Edina lies within reach of the Twin Cities, hosting the Minnesota State University and the shopping districts 50th & France and Southdale. “People [in Edina] have a high expectation of success, no matter what the endeavor,” lifelong resident Ryan Lund told the Star Tribune.
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#65. Northville Township, Michigan
– Population: 29,017
– Median home value: $407,500 (79% own)
– Median rent: $1,293 (21% rent)
– Median household income: $112,054
Northville Township is a liberal-leaning Detroit suburb that formerly existed as a farming town and maintains an open landscape plan. Its official website also details a master plan that “allows for planned growth that preserves wooded areas and open space, and protects our waterways.”
#64. Northville, Michigan
– Population: 5,971
– Median home value: $325,900 (79% own)
– Median rent: $1,107 (21% rent)
– Median household income: $111,169
Adjacent to but autonomous from the Township of Northville, Northville is another Detroit suburb with a long history as a city founded by Victorian immigrants. Every year, Northville celebrates its heritage with the long-running Heritage Festival event.
#63. Lodi Township, Michigan
– Population: 6,455
– Median home value: $337,900 (97% own)
– Median rent: $1,453 (3% rent)
– Median household income: $122,682
Named after a town near New York’s Finger Lakes, Lodi Township lies just southwest of the city of Ann Arbor. The prosperous city boasts an overwhelming home ownership, and is particularly well-regarded for its parks system.
#62. Novi, Michigan
– Population: 59,625
– Median home value: $309,000 (66% own)
– Median rent: $1,308 (34% rent)
– Median household income: $92,410
Money magazine praised the northern Detroit suburb of Novi, Michigan for its “excellent schools, lots of green space, and cultural diversity.” Novi, which is also close to Ann Arbor, was also praised for its diversity thanks to a “strong Indian and Asian population.”
#61. Wildwood, Missouri
– Population: 35,517
– Median home value: $372,000 (92% own)
– Median rent: $1,186 (8% rent)
– Median household income: $132,221
Wildwood is another St. Louis suburb known for its eco-friendly, small-town energy, this time to the west of downtown. It has a particular wealth of outdoor recreation, including Rockwoods Reservation, the Al Foster Trail, and Babler State Park.
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#60. Brookfield, Wisconsin
– Population: 38,151
– Median home value: $307,100 (87% own)
– Median rent: $1,519 (13% rent)
– Median household income: $105,878
Milwaukee suburb Brookfield offers particular economic access to major companies, while lying outside of the Wisconsin city’s downtown area. It’s home to the financial technology firm Fiserv, while also hosting a Fedex SmartPost unit.
#59. Sixteen Mile Stand, Ohio
– Population: 2,804
– Median home value: $388,900 (50% own)
– Median rent: $1,235 (50% rent)
– Median household income: $91,761
Notably, the tiny Ohio suburb Sixteen Mile Stand was named for its exact proximity to the city of Cincinnati. Home to many young professionals, it’s a short distance from major Midwestern cultural offerings such as the Cincinnati Art Museum and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.
#58. Wilmette, Illinois
– Population: 27,419
– Median home value: $680,700 (87% own)
– Median rent: $1,639 (13% rent)
– Median household income: $154,738
The Chicago suburb Wilmette had a particularly good past few years, most recently getting named the best place to raise a family in Cook County by Niche.com for its family amenities, safety, parks, and more. Wilmette’s Romona Elementary School also received the National Blue Ribbon award from the U.S. Department of Education for its academic excellence.
#57. East Grand Rapids, Michigan
– Population: 11,642
– Median home value: $353,700 (94% own)
– Median rent: $1,508 (6% rent)
– Median household income: $133,982
This Grand Rapids suburb is full of nature access thanks to Reeds Lake and Fish Lake. It also features the Gaslight Village, a bustling business district full of boutiques.
#56. Kohler, Wisconsin
– Population: 2,193
– Median home value: $239,500 (92% own)
– Median rent: $977 (8% rent)
– Median household income: $84,813
Kohler, Wisconsin’s local economy benefits from tourism, since it’s home to the American Club resort, various golf courses, and the sand dune-filled Kohler-Andrae State Park. It also employs a number of residents at the headquarters for Kohler kitchen and bath products and an Acuity Insurance Campus, and is part of the larger Sheboygan, Wisconsin area.
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#55. Webster Groves, Missouri
– Population: 23,029
– Median home value: $278,500 (81% own)
– Median rent: $1,285 (19% rent)
– Median household income: $94,617
This well-off St. Louis suburb is located only 15 minutes from downtown, and has a hip feel as the location of Webster University’s main campus. It reached number nine in Family Circle Magazine’s 2008 list of “10 Best Cities for Families in America,” and features the city’s celebrated Loretto-Hilton Theatre.
#54. Beverly Hills, Michigan
– Population: 10,440
– Median home value: $360,400 (90% own)
– Median rent: $1,297 (10% rent)
– Median household income: $116,107
The Detroit suburb of Beverly Hills also doubles as Michigan’s most populous village, with a population of a little over 10,000. It also features well-regarded public schools, and boasts a high percentage of home owners.
#53. Vernon Hills, Illinois
– Population: 26,259
– Median home value: $341,900 (66% own)
– Median rent: $1,589 (34% rent)
– Median household income: $97,366
The Illinois suburb of Vernon Hills was listed as one of the best places to live in the United States in 2020, courtesy of Money magazine. It’s within commuting distance of both Chicago and Milwaukee, and has a number of local employers (such as Rust-Oleum and the American Hotel Register). Vernon Hills features great beach access since it’s near Lake Michigan.
#52. Zionsville, Indiana
– Population: 26,209
– Median home value: $369,600 (81% own)
– Median rent: $1,305 (19% rent)
– Median household income: $132,409
Zionsville is an Indianapolis suburb, and also functions as one of the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City U.S.A. towns. The town has a storied history as an early pioneer town, and even hosts annual Ghost Walks courtesy of the Sullivan Munce Cultural Center.
#51. Powell, Ohio
– Population: 12,909
– Median home value: $367,000 (98% own)
– Median rent: $1,597 (2% rent)
– Median household income: $149,119
Powell, Ohio is within commuting distance of Columbus, but has plenty of accolades in its own right. Since being named number 18 on CNN Money’s 2005 list of “Best Places to Live in the United States,” the suburb has also been named the ninth best American suburb by Business Insider, and the fifth safest Ohio small town by Movoto Real Estate.
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#50. Blue Ash, Ohio
– Population: 12,150
– Median home value: $265,900 (72% own)
– Median rent: $1,149 (28% rent)
– Median household income: $83,079
Spaced 20 minutes from Cincinnati, Blue Ash places a high value on safe suburban life, with a 24-hour police force, firefighting team, and medical emergency line. It also has good golfing, as Golf Digest Magazine named Blue Ash Golf Course one of the 75 best municipal courses.
#49. Western Springs, Illinois
– Population: 13,227
– Median home value: $590,800 (96% own)
– Median rent: $1,941 (4% rent)
– Median household income: $161,563
Back in July 1962, this Chicago suburb made history when the mayor received a televised phone call from the chairman of its sister city, Rugeley, Staffordshire in the U.K. Since then, the town has made a name for itself as a great place to raise a family—in 2007, BusinessWeek.com ranked it second in a list of the 50 best U.S. places to raise kids.
#48. Hinsdale, Illinois
– Population: 17,654
– Median home value: $878,700 (85% own)
– Median rent: $1,887 (15% rent)
– Median household income: $188,684
Hinsale, Illinois houses some of the wealthiest people in the country—its zip code, 60521, is the sixth-wealthiest zip code in the U.S. The town offers quick access to Chicago, and its downtown is a National Register Historic District.
#47. Oak Park, Illinois
– Population: 52,225
– Median home value: $374,500 (58% own)
– Median rent: $1,147 (42% rent)
– Median household income: $91,945
Located just seven wiles from Chicago’s downtown Loop, Oak Park is a great place for the arts—it features the Oak Park Festival Theatre, Circle Theatre, Momenta dance company, and more. It’s also one of the city’s more diverse suburbs, and had over 80 percent voter turnout in each presidential election of the 21st century.
#46. Westwood, Kansas
– Population: 1,624
– Median home value: $238,000 (85% own)
– Median rent: $1,617 (15% rent)
– Median household income: $82,500
Although its population is a little under 2,000, Westwood is one of the most densely populated areas in the Kansas City area simply due to its small size. The city is also home to several University of Kansas health centers, providing great medical care and medical career opportunities.
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#45. Shorewood, Wisconsin
– Population: 13,344
– Median home value: $334,700 (47% own)
– Median rent: $976 (53% rent)
– Median household income: $72,903
This Milwaukee village dubs itself as “the first suburb north of the city of Milwaukee on the shores of Lake Michigan.” The progressive suburb also features pedestrian-friendly roads and European-style architecture.
#44. Bannockburn, Illinois
– Population: 1,325
– Median home value: $974,300 (77% own)
– Median rent: $986 (23% rent)
– Median household income: $126,875
Bannockburn may lie outside of Chicago, but it has architectural prestige of its own—renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Friedman house is located there. The North Shore suburb was originally created by a Scottish real estate professional as a “country estate” community, and was named for the Scottish village of the same name.
#43. Montgomery, Ohio
– Population: 10,663
– Median home value: $354,100 (89% own)
– Median rent: $1,085 (11% rent)
– Median household income: $123,214
Montgomery, Ohio sits just northeast of Cincinnati. It offers an affluent gateway to the city, with a suburban feel popular with both retirees and families alike.
#42. Hesston, Kansas
– Population: 3,777
– Median home value: $143,200 (68% own)
– Median rent: $601 (32% rent)
– Median household income: $61,685
Hesston, Kansas is perhaps best-known for hosting the Mennonite university Hesston College. The Hesston Manufacturing Company, a farm equipment company, was also created there.
#41. Birmingham, Michigan
– Population: 21,066
– Median home value: $488,700 (76% own)
– Median rent: $1,481 (24% rent)
– Median household income: $117,670
This Detroit suburb is a shopping hub in its own right, featuring almost 300 businesses in its downtown area. It also features consistently well-regarded public schools, and a pedestrian-friendly community.
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#40. Ballwin, Missouri
– Population: 30,332
– Median home value: $246,200 (83% own)
– Median rent: $1,079 (17% rent)
– Median household income: $91,886
Ballwin, Missouri may be one of the many St. Louis suburbs, but its name is unusually singular—it’s the only town named Ballwin in the United States. In 2005, Money Magazine also ranked it 64 on its list of America’s 100 best cities.
#39. Solon, Ohio
– Population: 23,038
– Median home value: $280,300 (83% own)
– Median rent: $1,283 (17% rent)
– Median household income: $104,625
The Cleveland suburb of Solon may be close to a major city, but it’s received plenty of accolades in its own right. The city has been listed on Money Magazine’s “Best Places to Live” feature several times, most recently ranking number 10 in the 2015 list. It’s also been named one of Ohio’s safest cities.
#38. Upper Arlington, Ohio
– Population: 35,223
– Median home value: $376,400 (80% own)
– Median rent: $1,216 (20% rent)
– Median household income: $115,093
Upper Arlington sits 10 miles from downtown Columbus, Ohio, with a family-friendly, suburban bent. Its Lane Avenue shopping district offers plenty of local shopping options, while the Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival draws around 25,000 people each year.
#37. Grandview Heights, Ohio
– Population: 7,681
– Median home value: $342,500 (64% own)
– Median rent: $1,266 (36% rent)
– Median household income: $95,033
This bikeable community is located just two miles from downtown Columbus, placing it right in the larger city’s backyard. The suburb also features a historic strip mall called the Bank Block, and several award-winning microbreweries.
#36. Falcon Heights, Minnesota
– Population: 5,559
– Median home value: $288,200 (56% own)
– Median rent: $967 (44% rent)
– Median household income: $72,660
Apart from being a popular place to raise families, this St. Paul gateway city draws plenty of visitors each year as home to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. It also hosts many college students, since it’s home to the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus.
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#35. Dublin, Ohio
– Population: 45,559
– Median home value: $371,800 (77% own)
– Median rent: $1,375 (23% rent)
– Median household income: $135,514
Dublin, Ohio straddles the city of Columbus, and has corporate ties—it currently hosts the headquarters of Wendy’s and Cardinal Health. It was also ranked one of America’s Top 20 Creative Class Cities in 2015 by Bloomberg.
#34. Mason, Ohio
– Population: 32,749
– Median home value: $249,000 (80% own)
– Median rent: $1,200 (20% rent)
– Median household income: $96,511
Located near Cincinnati, Ohio, Mason draws many theme park lovers and jobs as the home of the Kings Island amusement park. It also has one of the most renowned tennis stadiums—the Lindner Family Tennis Center, which hosts the Western & Southern Open.
#33. Olivette, Missouri
– Population: 7,837
– Median home value: $311,400 (73% own)
– Median rent: $1,054 (27% rent)
– Median household income: $80,323
This St. Louis suburb has a rock claim to fame—the cover for Head East’s 1975 album “Flat as a Pancake” was photographed at its own Olivette Diner. It’s largely populated by families, with well-regarded public schools and a liberal bent.
#32. Overland Park, Kansas
– Population: 188,687
– Median home value: $261,200 (63% own)
– Median rent: $1,125 (37% rent)
– Median household income: $82,651
Overland Park is the second-largest city within the Kansas City metropolitan area, as well as the second-largest Kansas city in general. The affluent suburb also employed plenty of people at the Sprint World Headquarters Campus, which was open there until 2020.
#31. Shaker Heights, Ohio
– Population: 27,620
– Median home value: $222,700 (64% own)
– Median rent: $1,027 (36% rent)
– Median household income: $83,420
Viewers of the buzzy Hulu series “Little Fires Everywhere” might recognize this Cleveland suburb as its central location, but it has a much longer history. Originally a planned suburban community, it’s located around 15 minutes from the Cleveland University Circle, which features first-rate museums and hospitals.
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#30. Eden Prairie, Minnesota
– Population: 63,900
– Median home value: $351,400 (73% own)
– Median rent: $1,352 (27% rent)
– Median household income: $106,555
Ranked second place in Money Magazine’s list of best U.S. places to live in 2016, Eden Prairie is certainly a standout amongst the Twin Cities suburbs. It’s also filled with opportunities to get outdoors, with 37 parks and 17 lakes. To add to that, major employers like Optum and Starkey are headquartered there.
#29. Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan
– Population: 11,207
– Median home value: $347,900 (76% own)
– Median rent: $1,016 (24% rent)
– Median household income: $112,384
Grosse Pointe Park lies near both downtown Detroit and Lake St. Clair. Apart from its easily commutable distance from Detroit, Grosse Pointe Park also has a great parks system for families, including Patterson Park.
#28. Wyoming, Ohio
– Population: 8,535
– Median home value: $314,800 (85% own)
– Median rent: $1,048 (15% rent)
– Median household income: $121,071
With a highly ranked school system, Wyoming, Ohio is popular amongst local families. It’s also close to Cincinnati, sitting in the southwest side of Ohio.
#27. Oakwood, Ohio
– Population: 9,030
– Median home value: $239,600 (80% own)
– Median rent: $1,172 (20% rent)
– Median household income: $102,159
Oakwood sets itself apart due to its Department of Public Safety—under its system, personnel working for it are certified as EMS officers, firefighters, and police officers. The close-knit, relaxed community was founded by John Henry Patterson, who also created the National Cash Register Corporation.
#26. Rock Hill, Missouri
– Population: 4,637
– Median home value: $180,500 (88% own)
– Median rent: $999 (12% rent)
– Median household income: $80,042
This St. Louis suburb was described by Niche.com as one of the best places to live in the state of Missouri. With a high percentage of homeowners, it features a healthy mix of young professionals commuting to the city, as well as families.
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#25. Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin
– Population: 14,039
– Median home value: $373,200 (82% own)
– Median rent: $1,253 (18% rent)
– Median household income: $117,300
This Wisconsin village sits close to downtown Milwaukee. It’s largely composed of families, and has plenty of outdoor amenities—including Bradford Beach, Klode Park, and Estabrook Park, just to name a few.
#24. Ann Arbor, Michigan
– Population: 120,641
– Median home value: $298,400 (45% own)
– Median rent: $1,213 (55% rent)
– Median household income: $63,956
Ann Arbor has long held a reputation as a progressive college town as the home of the University of Michigan. It also employs plenty of people at the university’s research and medical centers, and has an artsy downtown scene.
#23. Evanston, Illinois
– Population: 75,157
– Median home value: $380,600 (56% own)
– Median rent: $1,366 (44% rent)
– Median household income: $77,848
Evanston isn’t just a major part of the Chicago metropolitan area, it also leads research through the main Northwestern University campus. It’s also an overwhelmingly liberal enclave, with 90% of residents voting Democratic in the 2016 election.
#22. Kirkwood, Missouri
– Population: 27,693
– Median home value: $293,200 (75% own)
– Median rent: $1,031 (25% rent)
– Median household income: $88,378
The western St. Louis suburb of Kirkwood offers plenty of attractions and things to do for visitors and homeowners alike. It hosts the arts and crafts-focused Greentree Festival each September, as well as the National Museum of Transportation and the Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum.
#20. Bexley, Ohio
– Population: 13,764
– Median home value: $359,200 (77% own)
– Median rent: $965 (23% rent)
– Median household income: $108,750
Located outside the Ohio state capital of Columbus, the town of Bexley offers plenty of outdoor activity through Driving Park, Wolfe Park, and Alum Creek. It’s also home to iconic architecture, such as the Jeffrey Park Mansion (home to the Ohio State University president), as well as the Ohio Governor’s Mansion.
#19. Naperville, Illinois
– Population: 147,411
– Median home value: $410,800 (76% own)
– Median rent: $1,462 (24% rent)
– Median household income: $118,187
The Chicago suburb of Naperville was given a particularly unique superlative courtesy of Apartment Therapy in 2019: “Best for Crafters.” SafeWise also placed it first in its 2020 list of the safest American cities to raise a child.
#18. Leawood, Kansas
– Population: 34,570
– Median home value: $447,100 (90% own)
– Median rent: $1,699 (10% rent)
– Median household income: $149,736
The family-friendly city of Leawood is notably the home of AMC Entertainment. It’s also part of the Kansas City metro, close to downtown for easy commute access.
#17. Bloomfield Charter Township, Michigan
– Population: 42,155
– Median home value: $409,100 (89% own)
– Median rent: $1,236 (11% rent)
– Median household income: $127,553
The affluent community of Bloomfield Township doesn’t come cheap—in 2014, it was named the most expensive place to live in Michigan. It’s also home to the Oakland Hills Country Club, which has hosted six U.S. Open tournaments in its history.
#16. Chesterfield, Missouri
– Population: 47,663
– Median home value: $370,300 (77% own)
– Median rent: $1,177 (23% rent)
– Median household income: $106,250
This western St. Louis suburb, founded in 1988, was dubbed the “City of Volunteers” since due to its residents’ charitable attitudes. Chesterfield is home to the historic village of Faust Park, as well as the city’s Butterfly House.
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#15. Troy, Michigan
– Population: 83,881
– Median home value: $286,600 (73% own)
– Median rent: $1,161 (27% rent)
– Median household income: $97,048
Money named Troy, Michigan one of the best places to live in 2008, due to its well-regarded schools, its safe neighborhoods, and its cheap property taxes. It also attracts lots of visitors with the annual summer Troy Daze festival, which often draws 100,000 people a year.
#14. Fishers, Indiana
– Population: 88,717
– Median home value: $251,700 (78% own)
– Median rent: $1,222 (22% rent)
– Median household income: $105,042
Fishers, Indiana has plenty of reasons to boast about itself as a city, apart from its proximity to Indianapolis. It hosts concerts at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, offers an outdoor museum through Conner Prairie, and has an extensive park through Flat Fork Creek Part, just to name a few.
#13. Ottawa Hills, Ohio
– Population: 4,436
– Median home value: $300,800 (85% own)
– Median rent: $1,203 (15% rent)
– Median household income: $139,559
With highly rated public schools and a cozy suburban feel, Ottawa Hills stands on its own as a place to build a life in Ohio. That being said, it’s also a big Great Lakes port and industrial center.
#12. Long Grove, Illinois
– Population: 7,978
– Median home value: $657,200 (99% own)
– Median rent: $2,688 (1% rent)
– Median household income: $208,250
The northwestern Chicago suburb of Long Grove may have a country atmosphere, but its downtown regularly hosts one-of-a-kind events. In May, there’s the Chocolate Fest; in June, there’s a Strawberry Festival; and in October, there’s an Apple Fest.
#11. Elm Grove, Wisconsin
– Population: 6,172
– Median home value: $362,200 (93% own)
– Median rent: $955 (7% rent)
– Median household income: $115,972
Business Insider included Elm Grove on its 2014 list of the best suburbs in the U.S., citing its low crime rates, consistently high family incomes, and quality schools. It’s also a “Bird City,” meaning that it’s been recognized for its attempts to make the community an eco-friendly place for wildlife.
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#10. Prairie Village, Kansas
– Population: 22,048
– Median home value: $261,500 (78% own)
– Median rent: $1,321 (22% rent)
– Median household income: $88,635
Located less than 20 minutes from urban Kansas City, Prairie Village has been consistently recognized as one of the city’s best suburbs. Its housing market has also remained strong, and Prairie Village has more than 1,500 licensed businesses in spite of its relatively small population.
#9. Creve Coeur, Missouri
– Population: 18,445
– Median home value: $399,400 (69% own)
– Median rent: $1,211 (31% rent)
– Median household income: $100,735
Creve Coeur stands out amongst the many St. Louis suburbs with its medical expertise. The town employees hundreds of people through Mercy Hospital St. Louis, the Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital, and the Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, just to name a few. Drury Hotels is headquartered there, too.
#8. Buffalo Grove, Illinois
– Population: 41,329
– Median home value: $324,600 (79% own)
– Median rent: $1,599 (21% rent)
– Median household income: $111,435
The village of Buffalo Grove sits northwest of Chicago, and was placed on Money’s 2009 list of best places to live in America. It’s known for two major annual festivals—the July Buffalo Grove Invitational Fine Arts Festival, and the September Buffalo Grove Days Festival.
#7. Brentwood, Missouri
– Population: 8,023
– Median home value: $222,200 (64% own)
– Median rent: $1,225 (36% rent)
– Median household income: $79,469
The St. Louis suburb Brentwood holds education in high regard, making it a great spot to raise a family. Both the Brentwood High School and the Mark Twain Elementary School have been National Blue Ribbon Award winners.
#6. Madeira, Ohio
– Population: 9,091
– Median home value: $281,100 (91% own)
– Median rent: $986 (9% rent)
– Median household income: $112,513
Madeira, Ohio is regarded as one of the best Cincinnati communities for its strong housing market and solid school district. Cincy Magazine also ranked it as the second-best city suburb thanks to its low crime rate, in addition to those other factors.
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#5. Clayton, Missouri
– Population: 16,448
– Median home value: $630,400 (60% own)
– Median rent: $1,196 (40% rent)
– Median household income: $97,145
Apart from housing the St. Louis city government, Clayton is a strong force for city arts initiatives. The St. Louis Art Fair is hosted there each year, as well as Gallery Nights and the Big Read literary festival.
#4. Richmond Heights, Missouri
– Population: 8,457
– Median home value: $247,500 (55% own)
– Median rent: $1,010 (45% rent)
– Median household income: $78,481
Listed by Niche as the best place to live in Missouri, Richmond Heights leads the state in everything from diversity to school quality. It also provides easy access to downtown St. Louis, with connection to the Interstate 170, U.S. Route 40, and Interstate 64 highways.
#3. Clarendon Hills, Illinois
– Population: 8,711
– Median home value: $561,700 (84% own)
– Median rent: $985 (16% rent)
– Median household income: $126,500
The affluent Chicago suburb of Clarendon Hills has a great reputation amongst families, with Niche.com ranking it as the second-best place to raise a family in Illinois in 2020. It was also listed on the EPA’s Green Power Partner Communities list, and is conveniently situated between Chicago’s two airports.
#2. Okemos, Michigan
– Population: 23,912
– Median home value: $231,100 (61% own)
– Median rent: $965 (39% rent)
– Median household income: $78,080
This suburb provides easy access to the Michigan state capital of Lansing. It also features plenty of shopping at the Meridian Mall, as well close proximity to Michigan State University.
Source: swvatoday.com
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