Six Central Texas cities have earned high praise in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings of the Best Places to Live in the United States for 2025-2026. Based on a comprehensive evaluation of affordability, job market strength, quality of life, and population migration trends, Leander, Pflugerville, Cedar Park, Round Rock, New Braunfels, and Georgetown all secured positions in the prestigious top 150.
Leander led the Central Texas representation at number 8, followed closely by Pflugerville at number 15 and Cedar Park at 23. Round Rock ranked 28th, New Braunfels 77th, and Georgetown 113th. The capital city of Austin landed just outside the top 150 at number 164. Nearby Temple ranked 99, and San Antonio came in at 236. The ranking is part of a larger evaluation of 250 U.S. cities, where Texas had a dominant presence with 54 cities featured accounting for approximately 21.6% of the entire list.
How Cities Were Ranked and Why Central Texas Stands Out
The rankings were determined using data from both public and private sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, the Federal Reserve, and Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS). These data points were organized into five weighted indices: Quality of Life, Value, Desirability, Job Market, and Net Migration. A public survey conducted in February 2025 helped determine how each factor should be prioritized in the scoring process.
Texas had a strong showing across the board, with other top-ranking cities including Pearland (#3), Flower Mound (#14), McAllen (#20), Frisco (#30), and The Woodlands (#44). The surge in rankings reflects not only the affordability of housing and strong job markets across Texas but also continued investments in livability, infrastructure, and amenities in both urban and suburban areas.
Pflugerville, which earned the 15th spot, has become a standout for its family-friendly atmosphere, community planning, and recreational spaces. The city boasts over 56 miles of trails and continues to expand infrastructure to support its growing population. "In Pflugerville, our community is at the heart of every decision we make,” said Mayor Victor Gonzales. “We’re thrilled that the advancements we’ve made in our infrastructure, amenities, and services earn us a #15 ranking.”
Leander, now ranked in the top 10, has rapidly developed from a small community into one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. With excellent schools, affordable housing, and proximity to Austin’s tech corridor, it’s no surprise the city has surged in desirability. Round Rock and Cedar Park continue to benefit from their strategic location and business-friendly environments. Both cities have seen consistent job market growth, strong public school systems, and expanded access to health care and recreation.
New Braunfels, with its blend of Hill Country charm and rapid suburban development, continues to attract families and retirees alike. Georgetown, known for its historic downtown and vibrant community life, has also earned acclaim for its scenic beauty and cultural appeal. These rankings provide a snapshot of the growing appeal of Central Texas as a region that blends affordability, opportunity, and quality of life. As the 2025-2026 U.S. News & World Report list affirms, the Central Texas corridor is not just growing it's thriving.
