When making decisions on where to live many people seek places that offer a better quality of life. U.S. News and World Report has just released its ranking of the top 25 U.S. cities that offer the highest quality of life. The list is based on several factors, including crime rates, educational quality, general well-being, commuter indices, healthcare availability, air quality, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Risk Index, and more.
The report offers valuable insights for people contemplating relocation, looking to visit a top-notch destination, or simply curious about how their city compares to others.
Best Quality of Life Found in A Florida City
Naples sits on their list at number 18 for the best quality of life. Overall, the city scored a 6.8 out of 10. U.S. News and World Report pointed out that their ranking was influenced by the high cost of living as well as the older demographic in the area. But they did highlight Naples for having "loads of sunshine," and being in proximity to the beach.
According to U.S. News and World Report, the area features "pristine beaches, sprawling golf courses, and fine dining and shopping." They added, "Closer to the area's rural interior, meanwhile, cattle graze and seasonal workers pick tomatoes in the fields around Immokalee, a farming community an hour’s drive outside of Naples."
Ann Arbor, Michigan, took the top spot on the list. Following behind Ann Arbor are Boulder, Colorado, and Madison, Wisconsin. It's worth mentioning that not all small cities are on the list. New York, one of the largest metropolitan areas, made the list at 25. Despite its cost of living and large population, "people keep coming." said the outlet.
Many of the cities on the list offer a mix of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and culture. Many of the cities also are home to major universities.
Check out the complete list here to see how other cities ranked for best quality of life here.
5 Florida Beaches Named the Best ‘Secret Beaches’ in America
Summer is here, and it's going to be hot, as always, in Florida. Florida beaches are very popular and fun. But, they can also get crowded. Thankfully, there are some "secret" beaches that are kind of more difficult to find.
If you're looking for some "secret" places to get your beach on in Florida, the crew at Family Destinations Guide has done the research to find you those spots. "We surveyed 3,000 families in the United States to determine the hidden beaches they most want to visit in summer 2023," they state in the study.
As it turns out, Florida has four of the top 10 "secret beaches" in America, according to this study. That means they shouldn't be too overcrowded. That's a great thing.
If you're wondering about Family Destinations Guide, they regularly feature "reviews of hotels, resorts, destinations, and attractions your whole family will love. In addition, the site is filled with ideas that will help you plan your next trip. From family trips with infants and children, to excursions with teens and older kids, Family Destinations Guide gives you detailed advice for traveling with kids of all ages." Even if you don't have kids, their content can be useful. For example, these secret beaches can be fun to visit no matter your age. Read on for four Florida spots that made the top 10 of the list and one extra. Find the full list here.
Shell Key Preserve
Shell Key Preserve, Florida is ranked No. 2 on the list. That's amazing! What makes it stand out? According to Family Destinations Guide, "The beach is unspoiled and natural, with no development or buildings, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere."
Lovers Key State Park
Lovers Key State Park is ranked No. 6 on the list. According to the official Florida State Parks website, the park "protects some of the most pristine barrier islands in Southwest Florida." It also features "over two miles of sugar-sand beaches."
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is ranked No. 9 on the list. According to the park's official website, "This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands." It's also accessible only by boat or seaplane.
Boneyard Beach
Boneyard Beach is ranked No. 10 on the list. According to the Florida State Parks website, it "is a favorite Jacksonville retreat and close-kept secret." It also offers three miles of shoreline along the Nassau Sound.
Navarre Beach
Navarre Beach is ranked No. 13 on the list. According to the Visit Florida website, "Navarre, a compact beach community found just east of Pensacola at the far northwestern tip of the state, beckons with 12 miles of pristine white shoreline."
Source
This study comes from the Family Destination Guide. They surveyed 3,000 families in the United States to find the hidden beaches they most want to visit in summer 2023. Find the full list here.
