As housing prices continue to rise in many American cities, one suburban standout has managed to claim the top spot on Niche.com’s annual ranking of the best places to live — and it’s doing so with an appealing mix of livability and affordability.
Naperville Tops the Charts Again
For the second consecutive year, Naperville, Illinois, a scenic suburb west of Chicago, has been named the best city to live in the United States. Niche.com’s 11th annual list draws from extensive government data and millions of resident reviews to assess 230 cities and over 18,000 communities nationwide.
With a population of just under 150,000, Naperville manages to combine the perks of suburban tranquility with big-city accessibility. The suburb scored highly across several categories — particularly affordable housing, high-performing public schools, and access to parks and outdoor recreation. Its proximity to Chicago only enhances its appeal, especially for those seeking job opportunities without the high cost of city living.
What Makes Naperville Stand Out?
- Affordable Housing: Despite being a popular suburb, Naperville offers relatively reasonable housing compared to other top-tier communities. The median home value is currently $569,424, according to Zillow.
- Quality Education: The area’s public schools consistently receive top marks from both parents and educational rankings alike.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: With an abundance of green space, trails, and recreational facilities, residents enjoy easy access to nature and wellness activities.
- Strong Sense of Community: Naperville features a diverse population, a vibrant dining scene, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Most residents own their homes, and the area offers a dense suburban feel.
Methodology Behind the Rankings
To compile its list, Niche.com utilized data from reliable sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, a defining factor in the rankings is real input from millions of residents — reviews that assess affordability, walkability, safety, diversity, the job market, and the quality of public schools.
Texas: The Most Affordable State?
Beyond individual cities, the report also identified Texas as the most affordable state overall in 2025. It secured the most cities in the top 100 for affordability and cost of living, making it an increasingly attractive option for families, retirees, and young professionals alike.
The Top 5 Cities to Live in for 2025
- Naperville, Illinois
- The Woodlands, Texas
- Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Arlington, Virginia
- Irvine, California
Each of these cities blends high quality of life with a unique local identity. From the eco-friendly suburban planning of The Woodlands to the academic and cultural richness of Cambridge, the top five provide diverse options for Americans considering a move in 2025.
How to Find Your Ideal Community
For those thinking about relocating, Niche.com offers detailed rankings tailored to individual needs — whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a family with children, a recent graduate, or a retiree. You can filter by state, metro area, or county and access lists specific to lifestyle preferences, affordability, and educational access.
Why It Matters
“Where you live shapes so many aspects of your life — from career opportunities to the sense of community you feel,” said Luke Skurman, CEO and founder of Niche.com, in a statement. “Our goal is to empower people with the data and insights they need to make informed choices about where to live.”
For Naperville residents, the honor is likely no surprise. For everyone else — it might be time to take a second look at this Midwestern gem.
