11 Best Places to Live in The U.S. (2017)

2) Raleigh, North Carolina

As one third of what’s known as the Research Triangle, Raleigh has been, and continues to be, a big draw for college graduates seeking employment. Accompanied by Durham and Chapel Hill, the Triangle is now home to 170 business’s in the science and engineering field. The creation of this research hub was to provide jobs for those graduating from the area’s many well-respected universities. North Carolina prides itself on its southern hospitality. Many of its big cities, like Raleigh, feel more like friendly communities. Affordable housing, above average salaries, and lots of green spaces are other attractions of the area. Median household income is almost $57,000, with average home prices around $226,500. Crime in Raleigh has seen a significant drop since 2002, and is now below the national average. Raleigh’s nickname as “The Smithsonian of the South” is reflective of its many historical museums.