Top 20 Places to Settle Down
Making a decision on where to settle down for a while is a tough decision. With so many factors to consider, it may seem easier to just throw a dart and move to wherever it lands. We at LeafFilter don’t want you to choose your home based on a dart, so we decided to compile this list of the Top 20 Places to Settle Down. With statistics like population, median household income, and median house or condo value, this comprehensive list will kick your house hunt off on the right foot.
All statistics are gathered from www.city-data.com. Note that most statistics have not been updated to include 2015 figures. Please contact city officials if you are interested in learning more about these locations.
1. Winder, GA
This little city is located about an hour outside of Atlanta. With a moderately sized population, Winder is the perfect place to retreat from the big city and settle down. As an added bonus, Winder also offers a great school district! Check out the Fort Yargo State Park to get in touch with nature and for some background on the native inhabitants of what was originally known as The Jug, or Jug Tavern. When you’re starting to get hungry, grab some Smoking-PO-Boys BBQ for a delicious Southern barbecue meal– you’ll thank us later!
Population: 14,679
Median Household Income: $48,309
Median House or Condo Value: $113,020
2. Clayton, MO
If your family has some disagreements about whether to live in a big city or a small town, Clayton is a great compromise. There are some quaint neighborhoods, a rich history, and a vibrant business district. Bonus: It’s only a hop skip and a jump away from St. Louis! The majority of its current residents – a whopping 96% – report feeling “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with the quality of life in Clayton. Are you picturing yourself living there yet?
Population: 15,884
Median Household Income: $90,056
Median House or Condo Value: $584,146
3. Doylestown, PA
Doylestown is in a great location if you prefer to live in a smaller community while still living close to a big city like Philadelphia. It’s considered a borough, but don’t let that fool you. The area offers great shopping and dining, and a family-friendly atmosphere. As an added bonus, take the extremely affordable SEPTA Regional Rail from Doylestown to connect to practically anywhere in the Philadelphia area.
Population: 8,337
Median Household Income: $65,916
Median House or Condo Value: $383,455
4. Franklin, TN
When people think of Tennessee, they usually think of Nashville. But nestled just a little bit south of the big city is Franklin. Known as the best small town in Tennessee, Franklin has that Southern hospitality mixed with small town charm going on. You’ll find a great mix of local shops and chain stores in Franklin, and you can catch a movie or a show at the recently-restored Franklin Theater. Retreat to this town to slow life down a bit and bring out your creativity.
Population: 68,886
Median Household Income: $82,300
Median House or Condo Value: $315,200
5. Spokane, WA
If you’re looking to move somewhere picturesque, check out the breathtaking scenery in Spokane. With tons of gorgeous views like the River Falls, Centennial Trail, and the close-by Northwest Rockies, you’ll never run out of nooks and crannies to explore. The city is constantly improving and “beautifying” its neighborhoods, so pride in this city abounds. Want to love where you live? Move to Spokane!
Population: 210,721
Median Household Income: $39,385
Median House or Condo Value: $155,300
6. Maysville, KY
Maysville is another small town brimming with charm and a great place to raise a family. There’s a little something for everyone in Maysville. If you’ve got a creative side, you’ll love to check out the downtown galleries and Russell Theater, where Rosemary Clooney once graced the stage. Or, if your family is more into nature, you’ll probably want to spend time at the zip line or biking trails.
Population: 8,920
Median Household Income: $36,623
Median House or Condo Value: $109,151
7. Portage, MI
Portage has an excellent school district and housing market. This community flourishes, in part, due to large employers, like the nearby Stryker Instruments and Pfizer. Job opportunities abound in many different industries in this city. If you’re looking for a lively place to live, you should definitely check out Portage.
Population: 47,523
Median Household Income: $55,131
Median House or Condo Value: $138,349
8. Saratoga Springs, NY
Saratoga Springs is a booming tourist destination, with plenty of job opportunities. This city has low crime rates and is home to two colleges. If you like to live a little on the wilder side, you’ll probably enjoy hanging out at the Saratoga Casino and Raceway (Remember: Gamble responsibly!). Or, if you like to live to a slower pace, you’re likely to frequent the many spas and natural mineral springs, which are said to have healing powers. Widely regarded as one of the best places to live in New York, you’ll have no problem finding a home here.
Population: 27,315
Median Household Income: $67,522
Median House or Condo Value: $297,771
9. Plano, TX
If their slogan – City of Excellence – doesn’t say it all, we don’t know what does. Plano is an ideal place if you’re looking to own a home in a safe community. You’ll enjoy the many community events, like their breath-taking air balloon festival. If you prefer green transportation, Plano offers the luxury of three DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) stations to help you get around.
Population: 274,409
Median Household Income: $80,448
Median House or Condo Value: $226,500
10. Marblehead, MA
Do you dream of being able to see the ocean from your own backyard? If so, Marblehead is the place you’re looking for. Between sailing, yachting, fishing, and other water sports, it is clear why the historic harbor is the focal point of this town. Marblehead’s upscale community has inspired many writers, film makers, and other artists. It is situated just a little north of Boston, which makes for easy trips to the big city.
Population: 19,808
Median Household Income: $98,707
Median House or Condo Value: $56,671
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