When thinking about working and living in a large American city, people often imagine cramped, expensive living arrangements that simply meet their minimum standards for housing. There is some truth to this picture when it comes to life in places like Manhattan or Philadelphia. However, many people are pleasantly surprised to find that the scene in other American cities is a far cry from the stereotype of stressful, cramped city living.
If you need to work in a city but desire a calmer, more spacious home life, check out some Long Island real estate, or scope out some houses in Pittsburgh, as both of these areas have what you’re looking for. See below for an overview of five peaceful places to live in the United States!
1. Long Island
As New York City continues to lead the way as the country’s premier city, its property values continue to rise, especially in Manhattan. If you plan to work in Manhattan and desire an easy commute from a more peaceful locale, find yourself some property in nearby Long Island. Long Island offers large homes with ample acreage for relaxing and hosting friends and family. Commuting to the other boroughs is made easy by the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) that runs from Montauk to Manhattan seven days a week. If Long Island is in your future, you will want to act quickly… investors are taking note of the red-hot housing market on Long Island!
2. Pittsburgh
Those unfamiliar with the Pittsburgh of the 21st-century may imagine an old, struggling steel city. This picture could not be further from reality! Pittsburgh has reinvented itself as a clean, peaceful modern city made up of diverse neighborhoods. Interested in a peaceful yet lively part of the city? Consider Squirrel Hill for its beautiful homes and unique restaurants.
3. Hopkinton, Massachusetts
If you want to live in a city that routinely ranks near the top of annual safe cities lists, Hopkinton may be in your future. This gorgeous town is home to its very own national park. Many also recognize it for its privileged role as the starting point for the Boston marathon. Less than 30 miles from the city, this wonderful town is perfect for those who need to work in Boston but desire a peaceful home life.
4. Seattle, Washington
If you’re looking for peaceful living on the nation’s western coast, it’s hard to find a better option than Seattle. This thriving metropolis frequently graces the safest cities lists while providing all the opportunities of a premier American city. For example, the city offers a range of professional sports from the NFL’s Seahawks to MLS’s Sounders. Outdoor enthusiasts love Seattle for its easy access to all that the beautiful Pacific Northwest region has to offer.
5. Grand Rapids, Michigan
Those interested in a peaceful existence in America’s heartland will want to take a close look at Grand Rapids, one of the Midwest’s most intriguing cities. Boasting comparably low crime rates for a city of its size, Grand Rapids features affordable housing options and a thriving cultural scene. Generally considered a young city due to its large numbers of college students, Grand Rapids has recently earned a reputation for its excellent craft brewery scene.