10 Best Cities to Raise a Family in the U.S. in 2025

Raising a family is one of life’s greatest adventures and where you live can make all the difference. Whether you’re searching for the best suburbs to raise a family or a full-fledged city that checks every box, this guide will walk you through top options and key considerations. We’ll highlight standout communities, discuss how to choose the best place to live in the USA with family, and give you practical tips to evaluate your own priorities.

What Makes a Place One of the Best Places to Raise a Family in the US?

Before diving into rankings, let’s define what criteria matter most when evaluating family-friendly cities:

• Safety & Low Crime Rates: peace of mind is non-negotiable.
• Strong Schools & Educational Outcomes: public schools, extracurriculars, and support services.
• Affordability: housing costs, cost of living relative to income, taxes.
• Family‑Friendly Amenities & Recreation: parks, green space, walkability, access to cultural and outdoor activities.
• Health Care & Social Services Access: pediatric care, hospitals, community support.
• Economic Stability & Job Market: career opportunities, growth, and resilience.
• Community Feel & Quality of Life: engaged neighborhoods, diversity, and amenities for different ages.

With those in mind, below are several cities and suburbs that consistently rise to the top.

Top Cities & Suburbs for Families

Here are some of the best places to raise a family in the US, blending both city and suburban environments:

1. Fremont, California

Often ranked #1 by WalletHub, Fremont scores high in economic well‑being, educational outcomes, and safety. Around half of households have children under 18, schools are strong, and residents benefit from high median family incomes after cost-of-living adjustments. 

2. Overland Park, Kansas

A perennial favorite, Overland Park ranks well due to affordability, low poverty rates, and strong schools. Its job market is stable, and community amenities make it one of the best suburbs to raise a family in the Midwest.

3. Plano, Texas

Plano combines low crime, solid schools, and an affordable cost-of-living for a Texas city. It ranks well in both safety metrics and educational outcomes. 

4. Irvine, California

While housing costs are higher, Irvine offers strong public safety, well‑resourced schools, and clean infrastructure. Many families opt for Irvine hoping to balance California’s opportunities with a family‑oriented environment.

5. South Burlington, Vermont

Smaller in size than many national rankings, South Burlington stands out for its safety, access to nature, and strong social services. 

6. Boise, Idaho

As one of the lower-cost cities among the top picks, Boise offers outdoor access, growth in jobs, and a family-ready environment. 

7. Gilbert, Arizona

Gilbert often ranks in the top 10 due to safety and community amenities. It’s especially attractive for families seeking opportunities in the Sun Belt. 

8. Bismarck, North Dakota

Though less known, Bismarck’s low crime, manageable housing costs, and strong community services make it a hidden gem. 

9. Naperville, Illinois (Suburb)

As a suburb of Chicago, Naperville is widely praised for its safety, excellent public schools, and suburban amenities. 

10. Cary, North Carolina (Suburb)

In the Research Triangle, Cary offers a suburban alternative with good schools, low crime, and easy access to amenities in Raleigh–Durham. 

What to Consider: Choosing the Best Suburb to Raise a Family for You

While ranking lists are helpful, your personal priorities should guide your decision. Here’s a checklist to tailor your search:

Regional Tips & Highlights

• Sun Belt / South: Cities like Plano, Gilbert, and the suburbs of Raleigh benefit from lower taxes, warmer climate, and job growth. Just balance climate extremes with cost and infrastructure.
• Midwest / Heartland: Overland Park, Bismarck, and parts of Iowa or Nebraska often offer the best value for safety and schooling.
• West Coast & Mountain Regions: Fremont and Irvine show that it’s possible to have access to major metro advantages while maintaining strong family amenities. However, housing may be steep.
• Northeast & Small Towns: Smaller cities and suburbs in Vermont or areas outside Boston, New York, or DC offer high quality of life, but often at a higher price per square foot.

Ranking the best places to live in the USA with a family is a blend of data and personal fit. Whether you’re drawn to suburban life in Plano or Overland Park or prefer city-suburb balance like Irvine or Naperville, the key is aligning trade-offs with your values.

To assess your best fit, start by making your own priority list (cost, school, commute, climate). Then, use ranking tools like WalletHub or local school rating sites to filter out some of your options. Next, visit top candidates in-person. Nothing will give you a better feel for a place than walking the streets and talking to locals. Finally, evaluate home cost vs. quality and don’t stretch yourself too thin. 

At Liberty Home Guard, we understand homes are more than houses, they’re where families grow, laugh, and build memories. Whether you’re moving to one of the top best places to raise a family in the US, looking into the best suburbs to raise a family, or just seeking a safe, supportive place to live, we’re here to help guide you. 

Explore our resources on home warranties, homeowner protection, and local insights to help make your next house truly a home.