Livability has released its ranking of the “Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S.” — and it features three key Florida cities.
According to the study, these cities were analyzed based on economic, housing, transportation, health and education factors. The study used these measures to come up with a “LivScore” for each city on the list.
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At the top of the list sits Carmel, Indiana, which has a “LivScore” of 875 (out of a possible 1,000). It ranked highest for categories like the cost of living and life expectancy.
But much lower on the list is Gainesville, which earned the No. 94 spot and a “LivScore” of 698.
The city received the bulk of its score thanks to its transportation services, amenities and educational opportunities.
“With a student population of more than 60,000, Gainesville, Florida, is a college town through and through. The University of Florida, home of the Gators, is the state’s oldest (and largest) university and is a center of education, cultural and sporting events. The city is affordable, with many bars and restaurants that cater to students. Outdoor activities are a big draw, with plentiful parks, hiking and biking trails, and golf, and the beaches of the Atlantic Coast are just over an hour away.”
"Why You'll Love Living in Gainesville, Florida" - Livability
Just a couple of steps below Gainesville ranks Tampa, coming in at No. 96 with a “LivScore” of 697.
As with Gainesville, Tampa scored high on transportation and amenities, though one of its main draws is its strong economic prospects.
“From waterfront parks to museums and easy-to-reach beaches, Tampa, FL, residents have no shortage of fun ways to spend their weekends. Year-round balmy temps and professional sports teams to cheer on, plus a 2.4-mile riverwalk lined with fun things to do and see, add to the appeal. All of these fantastic amenities are a big reason why Tampa is one of the best places to live in the U.S.
The median age in Tampa is 36, which means the city is a magnet for young professionals. There are plenty of career opportunities, too, as Tampa Bay is a growing hub for IT and life sciences industries. Tampa is also a destination for company headquarters and has a strong defense and security industry. The region’s 80 colleges and tech schools provide companies with a strong talent pipeline, allowing residents to train for new careers or level up their skills.”
"Why You'll Love Living in Tampa, Florida" - Livability
And just shy of the bottom of the list — though still within the top 100 — is Fort Lauderdale in South Florida, which got No. 99 and a “LivScore” of 692.
The study attributes a large chunk of that score to Fort Lauderdale’s rail system, water taxis and “bustling” cruise ship seaport, which have earned it the title of the “Venice of America.”
Of course, the low taxes help, as there’s no income tax.
“Fun in the sun is the obvious reason why Fort Lauderdale, FL, ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S. After a visit, you’ll no doubt want to make this your home, too. Because, let’s face it, who can resist a cosmopolitan city that boasts 24 miles of beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, a dynamic dining scene and arts and culture aplenty?
The Greater Fort Lauderdale area is home to 31 distinct neighborhoods that provide all the amenities you can expect from living in South Florida. That includes a strong and diverse economy with significant industry sectors such as global logistics, aerospace, aviation, technology, financial services and marine industries.”
"Why You'll Love Living in Fort Lauderdale, Florida" - Livability
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