The 10 best small towns to live in the U.S.

Phoenixville (Pennsylvania)

“Phoenixville is a town that got knocked down—and then turned that comeback into a community-wide celebration,” says Casey Gaddy, realtor at The Gaddy GroupThe Phoenix Steel Company closed in the 1980s. “What used to be steel and soot is now sidewalk cafés, murals, music, and pizzazz.” Phoenixville, about an hour outside Philadelphia, is a cultural hub for those looking to escape the city traffic and experience culture. He adds that “First Friday is a block party where Bridge Street closes and music pours out from storefronts and families can explore art vendors.”

Phoenixville is a great place to buy real estate. “With home values around $400,000This is one of the few Philly-adjacent cities where you can find magic, momentum and a mortgage which won’t break your budget or you,” he said.

West Richland, Washington

West Richland is the place to be, according to some. Cary McGeeRealtor based in Tri-Cities. “West Richland grows faster than any other town in our area. New shopping centers, restaurants, and schools are opening. She adds West Richland is one of the fastest growing cities in America. safest cities in WashingtonSeattle’s weather is much more pleasant and home prices are lower.

“People from the west side of the state sometimes move here for the weather—we get about 20 percent of the rain that Seattle gets—and because their dollar goes further, especially when it comes to real estate,” she explains. The median home sale price in West Richland was around $500,000Emerald City homes often exceed the height of the surrounding mountains. $900,000.

Belmont, North Carolina

Charlie Williams is a member of the Williams Property Collective Belmont is “one of the most beautiful older towns in Charlotte’s metro area.” Cost of living in Belmont is 10 percent lower Williams states that the residents of Williamstown enjoy a higher quality of life than the national average. The downtown area is where you’ll find that classic small-town feel—visit the Belmont Historical SocietyTake a Class at Belmont YogaDiscover public art that is stunning in the form large-scale murals. You’re also only a 12-minute ride from Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Enjoy the convenience and perks of city life.

Lambertville, New Jersey

Though Lambertville, New Jersey, is classified as a city, its population was last recorded at just over 4,000 people—and Gaddy describes it as a destination that “lives at the intersection of elegance and soul.”  “Explore quaint galleries, vintage shops, and Lambertville StationDinner with a view is served along with some local history. Weekends means wandering around the stalls in the Golden Nugget Flea MarketHe says that treasure hunting in the area is a “sport”. He also notes that it is “one of the rare places where people still greet each other on the street and where every corner looks like it should be on a postcard.”

According to reports, the real estate prices in New York City and Philadelphia tend to be higher. RedfinThe median price of a home in the United States is $617,500. The cost of living can be justified by the quality of life and community. relatively low crime rate.

Frisco, Colorado

Colorado is a great place to live if you love the outdoors. Where should you live in Colorado? You may like the feel of a small town. Breckenridge Frisco is a great alternative to resort towns. While real estate is on the high end—the average home value is just over $970,000—you’ll have a year-round outdoor playground right outside your door. Winter sports include skiing at Keystone or Copper Mountain; summer activities include both land and water. Dillon Reservoir is a great place to go boating and fishing. You can also camp, hike and bike along the shore.

Penngrove, California

Penngrove, a small town in Sonoma County, is like stepping back into an old TV show. Although it is a tiny town nestled into the foothills of Sonoma County, it provides access to all modern conveniences and a peaceful getaway from the city. Holly Schaefer, an agent with Corcoran Icon Properties on the West Coast.

“The lifestyle blends country living with a touch of funk, with many homes on generous lots (averaging nearly three acres) and a community full of character—from working farms to unique and vibrant local businesses. Longstanding traditions like the Fourth of July parade and the beloved K–6 school give Penngrove its warm, tight-knit feel and make it a truly special place to call home,” she says. However, real estate in Penngrove is not cheap. Zillow estimates Penngrove’s average home value at more than $1.2 million. If you can afford it and appreciate rural communities with easy city access (including Petaluma, Santa Rosa and other cities), then this could be your idea of the ideal small town.

Maplewood, Missouri

GoBankingRates recently named the best small town to retire in, Maplewood, Missouri, bats above average in a few categories—namely, cost of living, livability, and crime rate. Living expenses in Maplewood will cost you around 10 percent lower You’ll also enjoy a range of amenities to help you make the most of your stay. town’s liveability scoreThere is a strong feeling of community. highly rated public school systemSt. Louis, a nearby city, offers top-notch healthcare facilities.

Lewes, Delaware

If you’re considering moving to Delaware for its tax advantages—like low property taxes and no tax on Social Security benefits—you may want to check out Lewes“, a town with 3,604 residents located where Delaware Bay meets Atlantic Ocean. “Lewes slows you down without even asking.” Gaddy notes that although the town has a lot to offer, including being historic and located near the water, it is notable for not having any live performances. You’ll receive a friendly wave and possibly a tip about where to find the best crab rolls without asking.

Real estate has become significantly more affordable in LewesAs compared to beach communities Rehoboth You can also find out more about the following: Dewey Beach South. “Home prices hover around $500,000, and for that, you’re getting more than just a beach town—you’re buying into a community that still feels like itself. Gaddy adds that it’s a place where people visit for the weekend, and then quietly begin to check out the real estate listing before they leave.

Campton Hills, Illinois

Campton Hills is a great place to live for three reasons: schools, safety and proximity to major cities. Safewise named the 10,731 residents of the community as the “Safest City in America“, and the school districts of the town continue to receive high ratings. Even though a majority of Campton Hills are rural, Chicago is just 60 miles away. The commute is doable if only you intend to travel a couple times a week.

Dunedin (Florida)

This Florida town has plenty of charm despite its population of 36,000, the highest of all towns on this list. “Home to iconic Honeymoon Island State Park, Caladesi IslandRecently restored. Dunedin Golf ClubReal estate advisor: “Home buyers view Dunedin, as one of small towns’ true gems.” Jim Henkel. Its “amazing walkable downtown” with shops, restaurants and breweries is also credited by him for its livability.  You’ll enjoy a reasonable cost of living if you decide to live in this coastal city full-time.6 percent lower The national average is higher than this value. 52 percent lower crime rate Florida, as a state, is much more attractive than the other states in terms of scenic beauty and recreational activities. Spend your time swimming, kayaking and enjoying the Gulf Coast weather. Dunedin, which is located in Florida’s Gulf Coast region, is at risk of hurricane damage. Hurricane Helene in 2024.