Do you want the culture and sophistication of a big city, with the walkability and friendliness of a small town?  Liveability.com has just released its 2014 list of the “Top 100 Best Places to Live” in America.  The site is dedicated to promoting the virtues of small towns and cities with populations of 20,000-350,000.  Eight criteria are considered for this list:  amenities, demographics, economics, education, health care, housing, social & civic capital, and transportation & infrastructure.  Here are their Top 10:

1.  Palo Alto, CA:  Great cultural amenities, mild climate, a thriving economy, and a world-class university are just a few of the reasons Palo Alto is the top pick.
2. Boulder, CO:  The Flatirons, 70 sq. mi. of green space, and 60 urban parks attract outdoor enthusiasts.  But it has great shopping and craft beer brewing, too.
3. Berkeley, CA:  A scenic setting, thriving arts scene, a commitment to environmental and educational pursuits, the city has long moved past its hippie days.
4. Durham, NC:  “Medical City” has transformed old tobacco mills into residential lofts  and offices.  Anchored by Duke, Durham is now a research & tech hub.
5. Madison, WI:  Urban, suburban and agrarian combine in this state capitol and top ranked college town that is family & business friendly.
6. Miami Beach, FL: Lots of cultural amenities pack a 7 mi. stretch of land bordered by white sands and aqua waters.  Miami Beach is proud of its ethnic/cultural diversity.
7. Rochester, MN:  Known for the economic powerhouse that is the Mayo Clinic, a  University of Michigan satellite is changing the demographics and culture of the city.
8. Salt Lake City, UT:  Strong support for local businesses, an outstanding natural setting and an emphasis on family living make this city unique.
9. Eugene, OR:   The city boasts a mild year round climate, low traffic congestion, plentiful dining and nightlife and well attended farmers markets.
10. Reno, NV:  A strong steady economy, thanks to tourism, quick commutes, dry heat and natural amenities make this desert town a great place to visit and work.

Check out the full list to see if your town made it.  Want to move to a liveable city anywhere in the U.S.A.?  Call the Centra Team at 800 535 0076 or download our mobile app today!