What Are the Best US States to Live In?

The best places to live in the United States is a highly subjective topic. It seems everyone has a different opinion, and the answer generally depends on what the individual is looking for. Not only that but when we do try and find objective data it changes so rapidly that the best state in 2010 could easily slip out of the top ten in a matter of a year do to the instability of the US economy these days. Based on a purely economic data, North Dakota and Nebraska appear to top the list. With unemployment rates well below the national average, it seems jobs are in great supply in these two states, leading to the affordability that comes with living in a prosperous place. These aren’t the only great places to live, however. Read on, as we outline the best US states by region.

The Best States to Live in the Northeast

Virginia and Maine are the forerunners in this category. Both of these states hold places in the top 20 list of highest wage earning states and have relatively low unemployment rates when compared to the national average. There is an abundance of beauty there, as well as history, culture and plenty of activities. Virginia is a consistent presence on the “Best Places to Raise Children” list, while Maine is a usual suspect on the “Most Relaxing Places to Live” register.

The Best States to Live in the Northwest

No list of great places to live would be complete without mentioning Oregon and Washington. The natural beauty of the rugged Pacific coastline coupled with the excitement of Portland and Seattle can make for a delicate combination of outdoor activity and big-city living. Portland, often voted one of the “Top 5 Places to Live” has plenty of entertainment, while Oregon as a whole is a leader in “green living.” Washington is typically a wealthy state, regularly falling within the top 10 on the list of “Richest States.”

The Best States to Live in the Central US

The central US is a big area comprised of many great states. Colorado is beautiful and mostly immune to much of the severe weather typical in the central US, while Iowa has low unemployment rates and great schools. Both states have a median income of approximately $50,000 a year. As noted in the beginning of this article, North Dakota and Nebraska are also wonderful places to live in this region.

The Best States to Live in the Southeast

Florida and North Carolina headline this category. Florida has been voted “Best Place to Retire” too many times to count. With a healthy housing market and many activities for seniors and families alike, Florida is an “everyone” state. North Carolina has a much lower tax liability than much of the nation, as well as plenty of outdoor activities and great schools, making this a wonderful place to raise children. Cary, North Carolina was voted the “Safest Place to Live” in the southeast.

The Best States to Live in the Southwest

Arizona and New Mexico are great choices in this region. The dry desert heat of these states makes them some of the healthiest places to live, while the history and culture of the region brings in many creative-minded people. New Mexico is a great place for artists, while Arizona’s housing market, cleanliness and relative safety bring in many families with children.




The best places to live will depend largely on what an individual likes or dislikes, as well as where they are in their lives. A family with children and a single retiree would most certainly disagree on this topic. The United States is so vast and diverse and filled with so many wonderful places to live that coming to an unequivocal and unanimous conclusion would be nearly impossible. It's just another example of why Freedom is the most cherished value of living in the US, everyone is welcome to choose their own “Best Place to Live.”




Editors note: This article is just an overview of what we have found to be acknowledged consistently year after year as the best states to live in. Over the coming weeks we will explore each region in great detail to give you a flavor of why and ow these states gain this recognition. As always we encourage you to leave your comments below - please share with us what you agree with and what you disagree with. Tell us what you believe represent the best states to live in and why.

Tax-Free Retirement Made Easy 

You don't want to organize your new life overseas around tax code...but sometimes the two agendas can converge. 

We've identified three countries that roll out the welcome mat, not only offering significant benefits for foreign residents, including seriously appealing tax advantages, but also making it easy for you to become a foreign resident in the first place. 

That is, it can be possible to relocate to the Shangri-la of your fondest daydreams...while, at the same time, reducing your tax burden, maybe to zero. 

It depends largely on how and from where your income is derived... 

And the key is arranging legal foreign residency. 

Here's the good news: While not every country welcomes foreign retirees or expats, we've identified three countries that roll out the welcome mat, not only offering significant benefits for foreign residents, including seriously appealing tax advantages, but also making it easy for you to become a foreign resident in the first place. 

Go Here Now To Learn More

The Best States to Live in the Northeast

In our previous post we gave the 'Big Picture' view of the Best States to Live in. Now we are going to go more in-depth and delve into the different regions of the country to give you more detailed information about why some states in each of these four corners of the United States rise above their counter parts. Enjoy and please leave your comments and questions so we can keep the dialogue going and of value to everyone reading!

The Best Northeast State

Although all of the northeastern states bring something to the table, Virginia distinguishes itself from the rest with high paying jobs, natural beauty and a good housing market. Virginia has the added benefit of being one of the original thirteen colonies, which only serves to make it even more charming. Great for history buffs and a popular place to raise a family, Virginia has a population of just over eight million people. In spite of its small size, the area has a spread-out feel to it, with sprawling hills and plenty of farmland. The state high school graduation rate exceeds 85% and remains one of the highest in the northeast. With an unemployment rate of 6.1%, Virginia falls well below the national average of 9%. Virginia had the most counties on the top 100 list of “Wealthiest Counties in the United States” according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. A frequent name on the “Best Places in America to Raise a Family” register, Virginia offers a stable economy, plenty of activities and great education.

The Cheapest State to Live in the Northeast

The great state of Delaware is the cheapest northeastern state in which to live. The median income level is approximately $55,000 per year, while the median price of a home in Delaware is below $170,000. Property tax rates are exceptionally low throughout the entire state. While the overall cost of living index is 14 points higher than the national average, the northeast is statistically an expensive place to live in general. Delaware falls far below the average for this region.

Best Northeast States to Retire To

Retirement means rest and relaxation for many, and the best northeastern state in which to find this is Maine. With the beautiful Atlantic coastline, plenty of opportunities for fishing and an eclectic local culture, Maine has been voted “Most Relaxing Place to Live” time and time again. From the big cities of Portland to the tiny villages of Frye Island and Glenwood Plantation which boast a zero population for most of the year, Maine is the perfect place to find the quiet life a retiree desires. An honorable mention goes to New York state, as the Hamptons remain a popular retirement destination for the affluent.




The northeast is home to many of this country’s best places to live. The preceding is a mere overview, meant only to illustrate a few of the great states in this region. Nearly every state here is steeped in history, most having been present at the birth of this country. The stories these states tell could fill volumes. The quest for the perfect northeastern state relies heavily on personal taste, matters of opinion and the ability to experience their varied charms for yourself. Tread with caution, as you just might fall in love with them all.

The Best Northeast State to Live in

Now that we've explored the country region by region and given you our top picks for the Best US States live in be it for retirement or economic we're now going to dig deeper into each of our 'Best States'. Let's begin by exploring the Northeast as we unveil the best communities to live in.

The northeast is one of the best places to live in the United States. This area, chosen by English settlers as the perfect spot to begin their “new world”, still retains the charm the colonists found so appealing more than 400 years ago. Although there are many great places to live in the northeast, Virginia stands out as the best. With an unemployment rate nearly three percent below the national average, great schools and one of the best state governments in the US, Virginia has the distinguished status of being one of the best states to live in the country today.

Best City to Live in Virginia

For those who love the city lights, big business and plenty of entertainment, Richmond is one of the best cities to live in Virginia. Serving as the state capital, Richmond’s main economy lies in law, finance, advertising and government. Voted the third best city for business in the nation, it is also home to six Fortune 500 companies including Genworth Financial and Altria. Richmond stays true to its historical roots and the city contains many monuments to historic Americans. With 40 parks to choose from, Richmond offers plenty of outdoor activities including hiking, biking and rock climbing. Median income for a family in the city is upwards of $38,000 a year, and jobs in the private sector are plentiful.

Cheapest Place to Live in Virginia

Lexington, Virginia lies about an hour east of the West Virginia border and is a relatively small town with a population of just over 7,000 people in the 2010 census. Home to the Virginia Military Institute as well as Washington and Lee University, this college town is among the least expensive places to live in Virginia. The median family income is $58,529 a year while the cost of living ranges from 1% to 10% lower than the national average. Both Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson were buried here, and the town is also home to the only non-profit drive-in theater in the United States.

Best Place to Retire in Virginia

Virginia Beach is a resort town on the shores of the Atlantic ocean. It contains the world’s largest “pleasure beach” and is home to several parks and many protected beach areas. Virginia Beach has long been a popular retirement destination and has a high concentration of senior citizens. Winters are mild and summers are warm. Virginia Beach is among the top 5 median family incomes in the nation, and crime rates are lower than average. There are several top-notch medical facilities in the city. Virginia Beach also has 14 major golf courses and an active senior community.

Virginia is a great state with a long and storied history. The economy and schools here are well above the national average, while the cost of living in the non-metropolitan areas is significantly lower. Housing is both plentiful and affordable and the crime rates outside of major cities are generally low. For these reasons, Virginia is the best place to live in the northeast.

The Best States to Live in the Northwest

The northwest United States is a place of beauty and ethereal mystery. From the rain drenched forests of Washington State to the old-west rodeo towns of Wyoming, visiting the northwest is a bit like entering a different world. Native Americans inhabited this area long before the present day decedents of today's Americans but their culture and influence remains strong. In a country filled with amazing places to call home, the northwest has some of the best states to live in and remains one of the best places to live in the nation. Come along as we journey through this region and learn more about what makes the northwest such a special corner of the the US.

The Best Northwest State to Live in

Washington State is commonly known as one of the best states to live in the northwest. It is a place of almost unnatural beauty, a world where a Sasquatch could (and might!) feel right at home. Washington’s gorgeous forests are teeming with wildlife, making this state a nature lover’s dream. It is no accident that Stephenie Meyer set her wildly popular Twilight series in these forests - the singular beauty and mystery present here lends itself to the thought that anything could live in this place. Washington has a population of nearly six and a half million and a per capita income exceeding $52,000 a year, ranking it tenth in the nation. Starbucks, Costco, Nordstrom and Microsoft call this place home, leading to Washington’s consistent top 10 ranking on the list of “Richest States.” Washington does not have a personal income tax, and its resultant sales tax is one of the lowest in the nation. Washington’s current unemployment rate falls in line with the current national average, but a recent influx of well-paying jobs looks to better than trend in the near future. Washington remains one of the best states to live in this region, if not the entire country. Washington State is also the cheapest state to live in northwest. While bigger cities such as Seattle may not be inexpensive, Washington as a whole falls a full four points below the national cost of living index rate.

Best States to Retire to in the Northwest

Both Oregon and Wyoming rank high on the list of places to retire. Oregon has an abundance of natural beauty as well as outdoor activities which include hunting, fishing and hiking. With an unemployment rate slightly higher than the national average, Oregon may not be the best place to find a job, but it is an excellent place to spend the fabled “Golden Years.” The housing market, while rebounding, still offers houses at rock bottom prices and the entire state has a laid-back feel not found in the hustle and bustle states of the east. Portland and Eugene offer arts, culture and entertainment, while the smaller towns of southern Oregon offer peace and relaxation for retirees. Wyoming, with its stunning vistas and wide open spaces, also provides a wonderful environment for those who desire a quiet place to spend their time.

Honorable Mention: Idaho

An honorable mention in this region must go to Idaho. Home to the Rocky Mountains and Hells Canyon, the deepest natural gorge in the United States, Idaho is small enough to retain its hometown history while still large enough to offer important services and entertainment. Idaho was also a pioneer in the renewable energy movement, which it remains committed to today.






The northwest ranks high among this country’s best places to live. With an improving job market and millions of acres of natural beauty, this is the perfect place to raise a family or begin a new life. The northwest is rich in more ways than one.

Best Northwest State to Live in

There are many great places to live in the Northwest United States. From the urban life of Washington’s biggest cities to the charm of a tiny Wyoming ranch town, this area is known for its cultural and geographic diversity. The northwest is home to many entries on the "Best Places to Live in the United States" list, and one state in particular appears more often than most. Washington State meets nearly every requirement needed to earn its ranking as one of the best states to live in the US.

The Best City to Live in Washington

Mukilteo is known as one of the best cities to live in Washington. A 2011 9th place winner on Money Magazine’s “100 Best Places to Live” list, this community of approximately 20,000 people in Snohomish County is a suburb of Seattle located on the shores of the picturesque Puget Sound. Median family income for this area is $104,939 and the median home price is nearly $380,000. While Mukilteo is not the most inexpensive place to live in the state, it is among the safest. Personal crime rates here are practically non-existent, while property crimes fall far below the national average. The median age of Mukilteo’s residents is 38 and an astonishing 80% have attended college. Test scores for reading and math are consistently high, at 20% and 32% above the state’s average respectively. Job growth has reached 13.58% over the last ten years. Mukilteo is one of the richer areas of traditionally wealthy Washington and a beautiful and safe haven to call home.

Cheapest Place to Live in Washington

Although Seattle and its surrounding communities may be a bit out of the average earner’s price range, Spokane fits most everyone’s budget. Forbes Magazine has rated Spokane “The Cheapest City on the West Coast.” With a population of 208,916, Spokane is a distant second to Seattle in size, but a world away in cost comparison. Median family income is $41,316, while housing here is a full 15% lower than the national average. 28% of the population works in a healthcare related field, and jobs within this field are plentiful. Spokane has no income or business tax, making it an incredibly inexpensive place to live.

Best Place to Retire

For rest, relaxation and an amazing view of the snowcapped Cascade mountain range, Wenatchee is the perfect place to retire. A resort area with a population of approximately 30,000, Wenatchee is famous for its apples. Median home price here is slightly above $200,000 and the median household income for those 55 or older exceeds $40,000 a year. Senior citizens make up nearly a quarter of Wenatchee’s population, and there are many active senior groups within the city to join. Situated approximately halfway between Seattle to the west and Spokane to the east, Wenatchee is convenient to either of Washington’s biggest cities. The nearby Wenatchee National Forest offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities and some of the most beautiful woodlands in Washington.

With everything from the economy and job market to the natural beauty of the state factored in, it is easy to see why Washington is a forerunner for the title of "Best Place to Live". While Seattle and its surrounding communities offer plenty of excitement and affluence, eastern Washington offers a laid-back, peaceful atmosphere. Washington truly has something for everyone.

The Best States to Live in the Central US

The central United States is a great place to live. The “middle America” feel is prominent, and the inhabitants of these states work incredibly hard. The central US was hit harder than most in the economic crash of 2008, but has rebounded brilliantly, and this region has become one of the best places to live in the United States. From the high plains of Kansas to the cattle and cowboy hats of Texas, this region defines America. It is no accident that this area is known as the “heartland”. Residents of these states have heart in abundance, as well as a dedication to the land unmatched by any other area of this nation. Read on as we discover the best states to live in the central US.

The Best States to Live in the Central US

Colorado and Iowa share the honor of best states to live in, although for decidedly different reasons. Colorado is frequently thought of as one of the best places to raise a family in the entire nation. It is the fifth richest US state per capita, with an annual income exceeding $34,000 per person. Pitkin County, Colorado’s richest, sees a personal median income of nearly $41,000 per person. Colorado, while within the central US boundaries, is shielded from much of the severe weather so common in this region. With a September 2011 unemployment rate of 8.3%, Colorado falls nearly a point below the national average, and the job market has seen significant improvement. Colorado is 8th in the nation in healthcare ranking, and graduation rates are steadily increasing.




Iowa - Best State to live in the Central US.

Iowa’s median income for a family of two exceeds $50,000 per year and the graduation rate is close to 90%, one of the highest in the nation. Iowa’s hills and lakes only increase its aesthetic appeal, while the mild climate makes for great crops and happy residents. Iowa and Colorado share the title of the best state to live in the central US.

Cheapest State to Live in the Central US

Indiana holds the honor of being the cheapest place to live in the central United States. With a cost of living index rating 23 points below the national average, Indiana is a place where your dollar really does stretch. It boasts a flat state income tax rate of only 3.4%, making their effective tax rate, including federal obligations, just over 11%, one of the lowest nationally. Nebraska was not hit nearly as hard as other central regions in the economic collapse as their main steel industry was nearly unaffected. Indiana is one of the few states who reported a budget surplus in 2011, to the tune of $1.2 billion.

Best Central States to Retire to

Texas is a wonderful place to retire. With the wide expanses of farmland and “everything is bigger” mentality, Texas is a popular destination for those who are too old to work but too young to slow down. The low property tax rates and cheap housing make this a financially smart move for those on a fixed income, and the senior services here are top-notch. Nebraska is also a popular retirement area. Lincoln, the most popular Nebraska city for retirees, boasts a full 27% of its residents are over the age of 55, and the median home price is just over $130,000.




The central US offers a different demographic than much of the rest of the country. The people here are of the “salt of the earth” variety, and everywhere feels like home. This region has long been one of the best places to live, and it only gets better as time goes by.

The Best States to Live in the Southeast

The southeastern United States is an ever-changing place. Once considered less educated, less wealthy and less desirable than its geographical counterparts, it is now a widely populated place filled with sprawling metropolises, tiny southern towns and everything in between. Home to many colleges and universities, plenty of professional sports teams and some of the biggest military bases and aerospace engineering plants, the southeast is now considered one of the best places to live in the United States. Journey with us from North Carolina to Florida as we discover some of the best states to live in this region.

The Best State to Live in the Southeast

The choices for the award in this category are many and diverse. Nearly every southeastern state deserves to be here for one reason or another. However, there is one that stands head and shoulders above the rest. North Carolina deserves the spot for several reasons. Its quasi-southern charm, drenched in old money and steeped in history, provides plenty to see and do. From the tobacco fields of yesteryear to the majestic plantation houses available for tours, North Carolina offered many contributions to the foundation of a great nation. In 2010, Forbes Magazine voted North Carolina the third best state for business in the nation. Culture, arts and entertainment are also strong here, and North Carolina may well be one of the best states to live in the southeast based on beauty alone. People have long flocked to this area during the fall, when the leaves turn brilliant colors not seen outside of watercolor sets. With 14 national parks , plenty of opportunities for fishing and hunting and some of the most beautiful lighthouses on the east coast, North Carolina has plenty to offer the nature lover. Cary, North Carolina has been voted the safest place to live in the southeast, as well as earned a Top 5 spot on Money Magazine’s “Best Places to Live in the Nation.”

Cheapest State to Live in the Southeast

Mississippi is quite possibly the cheapest state to live within the southeast. With a cost of living index 23 points below the national average and a median home price of just over $170,000, it is easier to afford more here. Although the median income falls short of the national average, families do not need to earn as much here as they would in some of the more expensive states.

Best Southeast States to Retire to

Florida is the best southeastern state to retire to, and possibly the best state for retirees in the entire nation. The climate is always warm, albeit rainy at times, and the 55+ community accounts for a significant percentage of Florida’s population. There is plenty to see and do for retirees including shopping, fine dining and outdoor activities. The median home value was $129,000 in 2010, much lower than the national average of nearly $180,000. Florida has no income tax and caps its property tax at a flat 3% per year for year round residents. The annual Florida tax burden is ranked 47th in the nation, making it lower than almost anywhere else in the country. Florida is truly a retiree’s paradise.









The southeastern United States offers some of the best places to live. Here, the charm of the south meets the romance of the Atlantic coastline. The southeast has made great strides in the past twenty years, and is now a great place to live, work and play.

The Best Place To Live In California

Naming the best place to live in California is not easy simply because there are so many. It has to be one of the most diverse states in terms of natural terrain. Everything literally from the beach to mountains and all manner of natural beauty in between. In addition to the natural diversity and beauty it possesses there is also diversity in cultural and economic areas. Living in California offers options unmatched in other locations and it will be up to you to answer the question 'what city should I live in' and pick what is best for you but here are some of my choices to get you started on your quest to find that best place to live in California.

I have to admit that I have a love for the southern half of California but I know my love is not shared by everyone at least some like Northern California as much for equally justifiable reasons. My choices in the southern half of the state, although not the cheapest places to live, reflect my bias and so these may not resonate with your taste but I think there are some very good reasons for the cities I choose. Hopefully you will be open to at least investigating these gems of the west while you consider the best places to live in California.

Beverly Hills California

To start the conversation about the best of California let's go to Beverly Hills California. Beverly Hills holds the distinction of being one of the most well-known areas of California.

Beverly Hills California

It is near Los Angeles as well as Santa Monica. Many consider Beverly Hills to be among the most desirable locations to live in the world. It certainly is home to some of the most wealthy and prestigious people in the world.

The school system in Beverly Hills is one of the best in the nation. With weather that is near perfect year-round and nearly every square inch of the city is well manicured. There are many places of interest in Beverly Hills. Including restaurants, parks, famous boutiques, Art Galleries and museums. The crime rate in Beverly Hills is extremely low making it a safe place to live and secure as you would expect from any affluent city.

It has the unique distinction of being a sunny little town enhanced by the safety, security and attention to detail made possible by its wealthy residents plus the fact that is very near to Los Angeles and all it has to offer.

Tour California

Redwoods and California Wine Country Overnight Tour - Petroleum Free Tour

San Luis Obispo

Second on my list is the San Luis Obispo California area. This beautiful little area along the central California coast might be best described as a tiny piece of heaven. The weather is near perfect year-round with over 95% of the days being sunny. The temperature never gets too hot and never gets too cold. Cal Poly University being in San Luis Obispo help it to maintain a low unemployment rate as well as being a large contributor to the local economy. Because of the weather, the low unemployment rate and low crime rate this little piece of heaven may be as perfect as it comes. One thing that detracts and may keep it from holding that ‘perfection’ title is the cost of living. Unfortunately the cost of living in San Luis Obispo is on the expensive side for most people and may contribute to keeping this area small and avoiding some of the pitfalls experienced by some of the other most beautiful California locations. Some old-timers I know tell me about Los Angeles 40-50 years ago and it makes me want to cry. Too many people have a detrimental effect on things over time. Sad really but it is the way we humans generally affect our environment.

Next on our list is the Santa Barbara area of California. It too is an expensive place to live but its proximity to Los Angeles make it a good choice for many that would like to live outside the city while still staying within driving distance. Most places in Los Angeles are within 2 to 3 hours of Santa Barbara depending of course on traffic conditions. For people who have amassed a small fortune Santa Barbara can be a wonderful choice but if your intention is to find a job and reasonable priced housing Santa Barbara may not be the best choice. Like its neighbour to the north San Luis Obispo it enjoys nearly perfect year-round weather and all the benefits of being ocean side as well. This might be the best place for a wealthy retired couple in California.

San Diego California

Last on my list is beautiful San Diego California. If you have ever visited San Diego you'll know exactly the reasons it's on this list. It is in the top 10 wealthiest cities in the United States and also within the top 10 as far as safety. It has a wide diversity of industry including computer science, electronics, ship manufacturing, the defence industry, tourism, finance, biotechnology and last but not least, agriculture. There is a natural diversity of terrain in the area coupled with everything from beaches to forests for the lucky residents to enjoy. There is a diversity of culture heavily influenced by its Latin neighbour to the south. National sports teams, museums, famous gardens and reserve habitats are among just a few of the offerings to those in the area. As with any big city it has areas that are not optimal but overall it is a safe city. Its education system is diverse and San Diego has the distinction of being in the top 10 most educated cities in the US. A nice bonus about this are is that you can find soem of the cheaper places to live in California.

As I stated early in this post my bias is distorted toward the southern half of California and the listed cities are only a few that make up the list of best place to live in California. After all it is one of the best states to live in but finding your own city that perfectly fits your lifestyle, income and choice of activities may take a little work. If you had to pick a location to do it, California is rich in potential locations for just about any persons idea of perfection although they may not be the cheapest places to live in the world.

What States Do Not Have State Income Tax

It is often ask in forums that I visit and in other conversations about the cheapest places to live and cheapest places to retire, ‘what states do not have state income tax’. This is a concern to many as it is viewed and is, a huge financial bonus when a state does not levy a state income tax.

There are many different combinations of sales tax, income tax (or lack of it) and property taxes in the 50 states that comprise the United States. It is understood that the income to run the state funded programs and services has to come from somewhere but it vastly different from state to state. Some are lucky enough to have rich sources of income and can diminish the burden on the individual, while others spread it’s income burden (tax burden) to all citizens in a number of ways.

There is a organization called the Tax Foundation, and every year since 1941 they have produced a document called Facts & Figures; How Does Your State Compare? (ISBN – 978-1-88409-6-22-8) that addresses how states rank in terms of taxation rates compared to one another. There is some controversy about their methodology from time to time but it is generally accepted as an accurate representation of the facts as they relate to state taxation of individuals and businesses.

In one of their comparisons they show how much residents pay as a part of their income (not individually but per capita). They include local sales taxes, property taxes and other local taxes. Here is the result of that comparison:

Lowest Tax Percentages of per capita income by State

• Alaska is 6.4 % of per capita income

• Nevada is 6.6% of per capita income

• Wyoming is 7% of per capita income

• Florida is 7.4% of per capita income

• New Hampshire is 7.6% of per capita income

Every state in the United States has created its own set of taxes that will be applied to those that live within or visiting within borders. Because every states tax mix is different it does present some challenges in compiling this data. It is sometimes difficult to compare data without unintended bias. In some of these debates about methodology over the years between the Census Bureau and the Tax Foundation, there have been fierce disagreements and the Census Bureau now publishes its own list. The Tax Foundation has specifically taken the Census Bureau to task for announcing the best state to live in without looking at the amount of tax collected and not talking into account if the person that was paying the tax was a resident or not. The Census bureau does publish a disclaimer (as of the date of this post) on their website that warns readers that the data could be misleading and uses the example of Florida where much of the state’s sales tax revenue comes from out-of-state guests on vacation or visiting there and making purchases that are taxed.

There are arguments for both sides that have credibility and that point to the difficulty in gathering data as well as interrupting it to reflect things like the actual tax burden paid per capita in a state. These arguments may be somewhat related to the saying of ‘splitting hairs’ and although they are important and significant, they may not ultimately reveal the best states to live in.

Each situation that you consider important that is effected by the amount of state tax should carefully be considered and you should subsequently devise a plan or formula for making a decision. Then hopefully their data will be pertinent to you in that decision. Until and if our data collection methods become more detailed, it will be hard to determine the best place to live for tax purposes and as inferred above, needs to be determined on a case by case basis.

Best Places to Live in Florida

Yesterday my brother and I were having that conversion that comes up from time to time - where to live when we get older. I asked, 'Do you think you'll stay in this house forever? Had any thoughts on where you might want to live when you retire?' His response didn't really surprise and it reminded me that the more things change the more they stay the same. He said at first he was worried the kids might be upset if he sold the house but after discovering they really didn't care it got him thinking he might just make a move one day. Where to Live? Florida - he said the idea of living somewhere that the weather is nice would always be important to him but what really attracted him to Florida was the warm gulf waters. Now that makes sense to me and it got me thinking,

Where are the Best Places to Live in Florida?

Here's what I learned - every American knows that Florida is a world famous southeastern state . That infamy comes from a lot of different places - surely world famous Disney World is one but also the unique features of this place have attracted people long before Disney was around. Did you know the Atlantic coastline on the east side of Florida is over 1,200 miles long? Of course like my brother the warm water of the gulf is matched only by the attractiveness of the sunny warm climate. It's called the Sunshine State for a good reason. Oh and did I mention the beautiful beaches? Florida also has a low crime rate, its a great place to be active and sports lovers are drawn to the sate for everything from Golf to Baseball to Fishing. Yes, there's a lot to love about Florida and I'm sure it will remain one of the best states to live in. Now there there are numerous places which could be considered the "best places to live in Florida" but like anywhere it is up to individual tastes and interests. For examples people with kids need family friendly spots where by the retiree may want something completely different. Lets' look at the short list for what most would consider the best.






Tampa and the Tampa Bay Area

Tampa Bay is on the West coast in central Florida . It's known as the largest open water estuary in the states and covers more than 1031 sq kilometers. As a naturally protected harbor Tampa is safe and one of the best places for families to live. The port of Tampa Bay is an important commercial hub while the beaches and downtown area attracts many visitors as it's considered one of the Florida Hot Spots for entertainment and fun. This area offers plenty of lifestyle and community activities with festivals and events held throughout the year. Stores, restaurants, and the longest continuous running sidewalk meanders along the bay, perfect for walking, riding and roller blading. There are numerous condominium complexes that typically have great swimming pools and activity centers making this Florida place one of the best places to live for singles and families alike.




Jacksonville - northeast Florida

Jacksonville is another large and well known Florida city. The metro parts of this city are best for the young hip single crowd including students fresh business people and those who are looking for good business work opportunities. The ultra friendly people of this city really create the atmosphere and make Jacksonville one of the best places to live in Florida. Move out of the downtown and into the burbs and you'll find excellent neighborhoods for young families. Jacksonville is located on the northeast coast of Florida. One interesting fact many people are unaware of is that it is the largest city in relation to total land area in the United States.

Miami - Southern Florida East Coast

Miami is located on the Atlantic ocean - the east coast of southern Florida. Truly a city that is all international, Miami is  known as 'The Gateway to the Americas'. There are numerous corporate headquarters, TV studios, educational institutes - media, music, fashion, film and performing arts abundantly spread all over Miami creating a colorful impact on life and living in this, best in Florida place. Miami is home to a very busy port with cargo and passenger shifts on a continuous move. Miami is a good consideration for younger people, students, singles, multinational executives, art-lovers... well it could be consider one of the best cities to live for just about anyone who is into the hip urban scene.




Fort Lauderdale - Southern Florida East Coast

Over the decades Fort Lauderdale has constructed an elaborate maze of internal canals earning it the nickname - The Venice of America. Although this tropical paradise looks nothing like Venice and there are no signs of the famous Italian gondolas it's true the canal system offers transportation via water taxis and a dock at almost every back door. This famous Florida city is the perennial popular Florida tourist destination. It's known for excellent dining and nigh life at numerous restaurants and clubs. Tourism is the main industry of Ft Lauderdale so those looking to live and work here are best to have education and background in the hotel, hospitality and tourism field. It's also known as a major manufacturing and maintenance port for expensive yachts and of course a major cruise ship port is located here.




Pompano Beach - Southern Florida East Coast

Pompano Beach is another beach city found north of Fort Lauderdale. Broward county is known to include a number of desirable spots to live. including Pompano. Because these beach communities are being redeveloped from mainly tourist to more residential they are considered some of the best places to live in Florida. Once only the bastion of retirees now working singles and families co-habitat these beach communities of Florida. Here people of all walks of life enjoy the ocean scenery and the multitude of active pursuits it brings. Real Estate is still comparatively expensive in Pompano Beach due the publicity surrounding it as one of the country's top vacation home markets.

Tallahassee - Northeast Florida Coast

This is the capital city for the state of Florida. Tallahasse has been an anchor with history and stability since Florida became a popular destination. It's known for having good educational facilities including several universities and colleges. Florida State U; Florida A&M are both world class and world famous. Tallahassee could be considered one of the best places to live in Florida for professionals who are looking for career opportunities in education and research. Florida schools alos have a reputation for low teacher to student ratios - this contributes to a graduate base that  is bright and quickly employable. They also offer affordable education in some of the best facilities in the country.




Panama City Beach - north Florida Coast (The Panhandle)

In the later part of the last decade the student 'Spring Break' scene was pushed out of the Ft. Lauderdale area and soon found a new home in Panama City Beach. Young working adults as well as students enjoy Panama City as it's become a Mecca for socializing. If your looking for fun in the sun and work in the hospitality industry that caters to the young party crowd than Panama City Beach is for you!

Although a number of Florida cities and communities may appear to be geared toward the young it still has some of the Best US Cities for Retirees - namely Sarasota and Ft. Myers - both in the 2011 top ten list of US places to retiree.   For retirees many like to live in places which are a little laid back. Calm and quiet are keywords and most love Florida for just those qualities. Since people first entered the work force the dream retirement spot has always included a warm climate, beautiful beaches, cheap real estate and low taxes - things Florida has and continues to be known for. Those who retire also want to consider health-care options including proximity to quality medical care. Almost any city in Florida offers retired folks all these things plus time and opportunity for intellectual and cultural pursuits.  And for those in the middle - a little old for the party  scene - too young to retire Florida still offers some great places to live for working singles and those who are married. For example, if you're in a business which means you  need to travel internationally metropolitan areas like  Tallahassee, Miami, Ft Lauderdale, Orlando and Tampa also offer excellent transportation hubs. The central location of Florida makes it ideal as gateway to all points North, South, East and West.





Juan Ponce de Leon, the European explorer, was the first to visit Florida way back in 1513. He named this magical place 'Florida'  which means 'feast of flowers'. Since those days millions upon millions of modern day explorers have ventured to Florida on vacation always mindful and always commenting about how the locals are so lucky to have settled in Florida. It's true Florida offers something for everyone - from beautiful white sand Beaches to hopping  bars and night clubs; from world class  universities to natural parks and hiking trails; from golf courses to museums to international corporate offices - yes Florida does in fact have it all!  When it comes to discovering the best place to live in Florida it will certainly vary from person to person but in the end there is sure to be a best place for everyone who wants to call Florida home.