For anyone who’s ever wanted to wipe their slate clean, pack their bags and relocate to somewhere new, we get you. There’s no time like the present to make a fresh start by finding a new city to plant your roots. Whether you’re starting over after a divorce, moving for your career or because you just need a change, we’ve found the top 20 cities across the country that have a “welcome home” sign just for you.
These Are the Top U.S. Cities to Start Anew
Alexandria, Virginia
Austin, Texas
You name it and Austin’s got it. This rising community is full of big city aspirations with enough Texas charm to make it feel like a place nearly anyone can call home. From their incredible Tex-Mex cuisine (which some locals call a religious experience) to their thriving music scene, Austin prioritizes fun as much as it focuses on professional development. As the South’s newest technology hub (often called “Silicon Hills”), the job market’s hot in Austin, making it a great place to start anew.
Boston, Massachusetts
Yes, Boston has an amazing history that reaches back to 1630 and includes the fascinating story of Paul Revere (and the infamous Boston Tea Party), but it’s got so much more to offer new residents. From an incredibly streamlined transportation system (meaning you don’t need a car) to award-winning cuisine (clam chowder and lobster rolls, to name a few) and plenty of job opportunities thanks to their numerous pharmaceutical and technology companies, this East Coast hub has it all.
Boulder, Colorado
Beautiful Boulder, Colorado, isn’t just a skier’s mecca (although skiing certainly is a big deal in this Rocky Mountains city). With more than 45,000 acres of untouched nature open to the public, there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Known for being one of the most open-minded cities in Colorado, Boulder is also one of the happiest and healthiest (based on a 2016 Gallup poll). While the cost of living in Boulder isn’t cheap, it also has a strong job market, thanks to the military bases and aerospace tech companies.
Carlsbad, California
Carlsbad, California, is a place where living the dream is a daily activity. Nestled against the gorgeous Pacific Coast, this Southern California city is known as a surfer’s paradise but it’s also a hub for the arts. Around Carlsbad one can find more than three dozen street art installations, including paintings, sculptures and more. With just a short drive to San Diego, a plethora of great restaurants and temps averaging in the low 70s, it’s hard not to feel like you’re walking on sunshine in Carlsbad.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Another Colorado city to make our list is Colorado Springs, located just over an hour south of the state’s capital, Denver. What makes “The Springs” (as locals call it) so fantastic for a fresh start? While the cost of living in this community at the eastern foot of the Rockies is high, the pay-offs (including great schools, a strong job market and booming housing economy) make it worth the investment. Plus, the city hosts dozens of microbreweries, making it a haven for beer connoisseurs.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Ranked as the No. 19 best place to live in the nation, Grand Rapids, Michigan, is an ideal metropolitan city for young adults and families looking for affordability, job opportunities and a strong sense of community. As an LGBTQ-friendly town, Grand Rapids makes inclusivity the norm. Regardless of how residents identify, this Midwestern city is a low-cost place to live with an even lower unemployment rate, making it a top city for starting fresh.
