A new ranking of the most livable small cities in the United States has placed the Midwest at the center of attention, with a strong majority of the top cities located in the region. The list, which evaluated more than 270 cities with populations between 65,000 and 100,000, highlights how the heartland of America continues to stand out for its affordability, accessibility, and quality of life. According to the study, 12 of the top 15 cities on the list were in the Midwest, and one of those top spots went to a city in Illinois.
At the top of the ranking was Plymouth, Minnesota, which earned the distinction of being the most livable small city in the United States. Following closely in second place was Bloomington, Illinois, which gained recognition for its favorable living conditions and balance between affordability and accessibility. These two cities represent the best qualities of the Midwest, blending manageable commute times, affordable housing options, and strong access to essential services with a high quality of daily life.
Plymouth stood out particularly for the balance it offers between income and housing costs. Although housing costs in Bloomington were somewhat lower on average, the affordability of Plymouth was calculated as a smaller percentage of the typical household income, which helped it rise above the competition. In addition, both Plymouth and Bloomington reported average commute times of around 20 minutes, making them attractive to working families and individuals who value time efficiency along with comfortable living.
The ranking was developed using a number of key metrics, including housing affordability, poverty levels, unemployment rates, access to healthcare, health insurance coverage, entertainment availability, and commute times. These factors were measured using data from the United States Census Bureau’s 2023 one-year American Community Survey, which gave a broad view of how small cities are performing across the country. What emerges from the findings is a clear advantage for many Midwest communities, which continue to combine economic stability with opportunities for personal and family life.
Along with Plymouth and Bloomington, other Midwest cities filled out the list of the top 15. Livonia, Michigan, secured the third position, followed by O’Fallon, Missouri, in fourth and Ankeny, Iowa, in fifth. Lakeville, Minnesota, took the sixth spot, while Eau Claire, Wisconsin, was ranked eighth. Appleton, Wisconsin, placed ninth, St. Charles, Missouri, came in tenth, Maple Grove, Minnesota, ranked eleventh, Noblesville, Indiana, thirteenth, and Oshkosh, Wisconsin, fourteenth. With such representation, the Midwest nearly dominated the entire top tier of the list, reaffirming its reputation as a region where balance, opportunity, and affordability intersect.
The findings are particularly notable given the broader conversations around livability and affordability in the United States. While larger metropolitan areas often receive attention for their opportunities and growth, many of these cities face challenges related to high costs, longer commute times, and housing shortages. By contrast, smaller cities like those highlighted in the Midwest are demonstrating that they can offer both opportunity and affordability in a way that larger cities often cannot. For families, retirees, and even young professionals, these communities provide a more sustainable and balanced lifestyle without sacrificing access to essential services and opportunities for recreation.
Bloomington, Illinois, stands out as a prime example of this. As the only Illinois city to make it into the top tier of the ranking, Bloomington’s recognition speaks to its ability to offer affordable housing, manageable commutes, and access to health coverage and cultural amenities. With housing costs lower on average than in Plymouth, the city offers residents affordability while maintaining the advantages of small-city living. Its recognition is also meaningful for Illinois, a state often noted for larger urban centers like Chicago, showing that smaller communities also play an important role in shaping livability across the state.
The Midwest’s dominance of the ranking demonstrates how the region continues to defy outdated stereotypes. Once regarded primarily as an agricultural or industrial hub, the Midwest today showcases a blend of strong economies, growing communities, and cities that provide well-rounded lifestyles. Access to healthcare, recreational opportunities, and education all contribute to the appeal of these cities, while their affordability compared to coastal regions adds to their attractiveness.
As debates about livability and cost of living continue nationwide, lists such as this shine a spotlight on cities that balance all the necessary factors. Plymouth, Bloomington, and their peers in the Midwest stand as reminders that smaller cities often provide the best of both worlds—affordable living combined with community spirit and essential resources. For individuals and families searching for stability, opportunity, and quality of life, these cities represent some of the best options across the country.
The new ranking may also inspire discussions around how other small cities across the United States can improve their livability by addressing issues such as affordable housing, healthcare access, and transportation. By learning from the successes of the Midwest, communities nationwide can continue to build livable environments where residents can thrive both personally and professionally. For now, Plymouth, Bloomington, and their Midwest neighbors remain the leading examples of what makes a small city truly livable in America today.
