8 Best Cities to Raise a Family

Recent data shows there’s a growing trend right now of millennials moving out of big cities like New York and San Francisco. There are many different reasons for this - from remote working to purchasing a property for the very first time - but one of the largest factors influencing this shift is people settling down and starting families.

The median age for new moms in the U.S. is 30, so it makes sense that many millennials (who currently sit between the age range of 27 - 42) are embarking on an exciting new chapter of their lives right now. With new family life in mind, the hustle and bustle of big city living may no longer be as appealing, and so the search for a quieter city to call home begins.

But where do you start? With so many options to explore, it’s hard to know where to begin. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you make an informed decision about your next move.

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Overland Park, Kansas

This suburb of Kansas City frequently ranks as one of the best places to raise a family in the U.S. In fact, in 2022 it was voted the second-best place to raise a family in the entire country.

With excellent schools, low crime rates, numerous parks and a healthy job market, it’s a great all-round option for your first move away from the big city.

Plano, Texas

Plano boasts a strong public school system, a diverse community, and a low unemployment rate - making it an attractive city for families. The city was recently voted as one of the best places to raise a family in the U.S. for the following reasons:

Excellent public schools

Reasonable cost of living

Fantastic parks system

Safe and clean environment

Madison, Wisconsin

With a strong focus on education and an abundance of outdoor activities, Madison is often considered one of the best cities, not only for raising children, but for the entire family.

The city has got everything from museums, arts and music venues, sporting events and facilities, to trendy breweries and a huge choice of restaurants. This is a great all-rounder that parents and kids alike will be sure to love.

Irvine, California

Known for its top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and well-planned community spaces, Irvine is consistently a popular choice when it comes to raising a family. Irvine was recently ranked No. 1 in Southern California and No. 3 in the United States, earning top scores in the category of “health and safety,” based on air and water quality, hospital access and crime rates.

Arlington, Virginia

Arlington offers excellent schools, a strong sense of community, and a wealth of family-friendly activities. It’s a great place to raise kids without feeling like you’re totally giving up your city life, due to its convenient location near DC. You get the urban experience with easy access to amenities, and yet there are serene neighborhoods nearby with nice parks and good schools, making it the best of both worlds.

Boise, Idaho

If you lead a pretty active lifestyle, Boise might be the option for you. The city has a low cost of living, good schools, and fantastic access to outdoor adventures, making it an attractive option for families seeking a laid-back but healthy lifestyle.

The Boise River Greenbelt, one of the area’s most beloved parks, is a scenic pathway that follows the Boise River through the city. It's perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or simply enjoying the beautiful views with a nice family picnic.

Raleigh, North Carolina

With its thriving job market, excellent schools, and welcoming atmosphere, Raleigh is a city that appeals to many families. Recently voted one of the nation’s best places for families, Raleigh really made its mark in the school category, which considered test scores, student-to-teacher ratios and the presence of public school campuses. Other factors that contributed to the city’s appeal included:

Quality-of-life factors such as air quality and commute times

Low crime rates

Amenities and recreation

Seattle, Washington

Looking for somewhere family-friendly but not quite ready to wave goodbye to city living? Seattle could be a great option for you.

While it does have a higher cost of living, Seattle has so much to offer young families, including a great range of outdoor activities and lots of quality education options. In fact, in terms of education and childcare, WalletHub ranked Seattle an impressive eighth out of 182 cities.

Whether you prefer an urban or suburban lifestyle, each city on this list presents unique opportunities and amenities to ensure a fulfilling family experience for your next adventure.

Still not sure? Find the ideal city that suits your needs with the Movemap. Just input your preferences and filter through recommended cities based on your personal requirements.

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Georgie Walsh

7/31/2023