Florida, renowned for its sunshine, picturesque beaches, and diverse culture, isn’t just a vacation paradise; it’s home to some of the United States’ most desirable cities. In a recent study conducted by Scholaroo, a non-profit educational research organization and scholarship platform, a surprise contender emerged as the top city to live in within the U.S. for 2023. Surprisingly, it’s not Miami.
Naples: The Best Place to Live in the U.S.
Securing the coveted number one position on Scholaroo’s ranking is Naples, a charming coastal city located in southwest Florida with a population of approximately 22,000 residents. Naples excelled in healthcare, boasting the highest number of hospitals and public schools among the cities surveyed.
It also clinched a top-two spot in bridge safety. However, it’s worth noting that it held the highest median home value among the cities under scrutiny.
Naples draws tourists and retirees alike, offering its visitors pristine white-sand beaches, world-class golf courses, fishing opportunities, and an array of upscale shopping and dining establishments.
The city has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, featuring museums, galleries, theaters, and an array of festivals. Among its notable attractions are the Naples Zoo, the Naples Botanical Garden, and the Naples Pier, which provides breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Mexico.
How Scholaroo Ranked the Cities
Scholaroo’s assessment considered 151 American cities, evaluating nine primary factors contributing to happiness and satisfaction: safety, affordability, economic prospects, quality of life, healthcare, education, job opportunities, leisure, and infrastructure.
Data harnessed from sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau, the FBI, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Niche were central to this study. Climate, diversity, nightlife, outdoor activities, commute times, and access to public transportation also played a role. Each city received a score out of 100 based on its performance across these metrics, with higher scores signifying a more attractive locale.
Other Florida Cities on the List
Naples was not the sole Florida city to make Scholaroo’s esteemed list of the finest U.S. cities to reside in during 2023. Tampa secured the 20th position, lauded for its business-friendly environment, resource accessibility, and low startup costs. The city’s cultural scene, theme parks, museums, and beaches are also noteworthy.
Another Floridian gem, St. Petersburg, claimed the 28th spot. This city offers a wide array of attractions, including aquariums, water-based activities, and the opulent new St. Pete Pier. Moreover, it stands out with its wide range of events, destinations, and LGBTQ+ community-friendly activities. St. Petersburg is also a hub for numerous museums, galleries, festivals, and craft breweries.
In Conclusion
Florida isn’t just a vacation destination; it’s a superb place to live, work, and enjoy life. Scholaroo’s findings reveal that Naples reigns as the premier U.S. city to reside in, followed closely by fellow Florida cities like Tampa and St. Petersburg. These cities offer top-tier healthcare, education, entertainment, and infrastructure, all while maintaining an affordable cost of living and a pleasant climate. If you’re on the hunt for a new place to call home in 2023, consider the allure of Florida.