While living in large cities often comes with a high cost of living, there are plenty of large cities in the U.S. at a range of prices that can provide the big-city amenities you want. Check out our guide to the ten best big U.S. cities to see what sets them apart!
Austin, TX
- Population: 965,872
- Home Price: $358,600 median purchase price; $1,346 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 11% of U.S. cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.2%
With a low cost of living and budget-friendly housing, the city of Austin is one of the best places to live in the South and one of the best U.S. cities for jobs. Employment opportunities with IBM, Apple, Google, and Austin-based companies like Dell and Tesla make the Texas capital a hot spot for people relocating for work. But it’s not just the jobs drawing new residents—it’s also the culture! The local slogan—”Keep Austin Weird“—is rooted in supporting small businesses, artists, the entertainment scene, and the city’s overall quirky aesthetic.
Things to Do in Austin
Take a tour of the Texas Capitol to learn about the state’s history and legislature. Go tailgating and cheer on the Texas Longhorns (FBS) as they take on their Big 12 rivals. Explore the Zilker Botanical Garden, go for a dip in Barton Springs Pool, or attend the Austin City Limits Music Festival at the 351-acre Zilker Metropolitan Park. Catch up-and-coming films and TV, see concerts by indie artists and bands, check out the gaming expo, and much more at the Austin festival South by Southwest (SXSW). View contemporary and modern paintings and sculptures or attend the annual Art Dinner at The Contemporary Austin. Pop over to The Picnic—”Austin’s original food truck park”—to sample incredible street food from local food trucks like Cannone Gelato Italiano, Coat & Thai, and Have a Taco. Or make a reservation at Austin speakeasy Midnight Cowboy for handcrafted cocktails in a relaxing lounge setting.
Boston, MA
- Population: 689,326
- Home Price: $581,200 median purchase price; $1,685 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 15% of U.S. cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.8%
Looking to live in one of the oldest U.S. cities? Check out Boston, MA! One of the top cities to call home on the East Coast, The Hub is known for its stunning architecture, historic and safe neighborhoods, high walkability, and the robust Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). Top colleges and universities in Boston like Harvard, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Boston University, and Northeastern University—as well as thriving industries like healthcare and finance—help attract young professionals to the area.
Things to Do in Boston
Learn about the American Revolution in depth with visits to the Freedom Trail, the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, Bunker Hill Monument, the Paul Revere House, and more. Cheer on Boston sports teams like the Celtics (NBA) at TD Garden or the Red Sox (MLB) at Fenway Park. See the clouded leopard, kookaburra, red panda, and more at the Franklin Park Zoo. Watch runners in the Boston Marathon, held each Patriots’ Day in April. Enjoy a night out with friends listening to performances by indie and local bands at the Brighton Music Hall. Get your seafood fix with a bowl of the famous New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Mac & Cheese, or Fried Scallop Platter from The Barking Crab. Or try classic Italian dishes with a twist like Carbonara, Gnocchi Sorrentina, or Chicken Picatta at Carmelina’s in Boston’s North End neighborhood.
Chicago, IL
- Population: 2,699,347
- Home Price: $267,600 median purchase price; $1,154 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 12% of U.S. cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5.4%
Chicago is the third-largest city in the U.S., and a great Midwest city to call home. Thanks to comparably affordable housing and rent prices, living in Chicago offers many big-city amenities without the high prices seen in places like New York City. Chicago residents can find great jobs in the Windy City, with major employers like Motorola Solutions, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, United Airlines, and Exelon. There are plenty of transportation options, outdoor activities, events, and more in Chi-Town—not to mention excellent higher education opportunities at The University of Chicago, Loyola University Chicago, and Northwestern University!
Things to Do in Chicago
Go shopping in Chicago at high-end designer stores such as Gucci, Dior, or The Shops at North Bridge—or grab a bite to eat at one of the culinary hotspots along The Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue. Take a city cruise, admire the Chicago skyline from the Centennial Wheel, take the kiddos to the Chicago Children’s Museum, and more at Navy Pier. Go on walks along the Chicago River at the River Walk. Visit Chicago museums and attractions like the Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, or Chicago History Museum. To indulge in some famous Chicago deep-dish pizza, stop by Gino’s East, The Art of Pizza, or UNO Pizzeria & Grill. Order classic Greek favorites like a bowl of the Avgolemono soup, Keftedakia, and Baklava from the Greek Islands. Or visit the taproom for locally brewed beers such as the Rauchbier, Hefeweizen, and Vienna Lager at Dovetail Brewery.
New York City, NY
- Population: 8,379,552
- Home Price: $635,200 median purchase price; $1,489 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 9% of U.S. cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.2%
Wanting to live in one of the largest cities in the world? New York City is for you! Located in the Northeast, NYC is a global center of culture, business, entertainment, and world-class amenities. Even though the cost of living in New York City is famously high, you can still find safe, affordable neighborhoods among its five boroughs: The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island—and to help offset costs, the median household income is 21% higher than the national average. Those seeking jobs in New York City can find opportunities across popular industries such as fashion, banking, media, and more.
Things to Do in New York City
Located in Manhattan, the New York City Theatre District is the place to see long-running Broadway favorites like The Lion King, Chicago, or Wicked. For luxury-high-end shopping in NYC, visit stores like Prada, Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany & CO, and Yves Saint Laurent along Fifth Avenue. Go for walks, take the family ice skating, and more at Central Park. Cheer on one of the many professional NYC sports teams as you watch the New York Yankees (MLB), New York Mets (MLB), New York Giants (NFL), New York Knicks (NBA), or New York Rangers (NHL) defeat their rivals. Spend the day at popular New York museums like The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), the American Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Start your morning with a Murray The Cop or The Leo sandwich paired with a Latte from Tompkins Square Bagels. Grab a Bagel, Lox & Cream Cheese, or Katz’s Pastrami Sandwich from Katz’s Delicatessen, one of NYC’s oldest delis. Or enjoy Ukrainian favorites like a bowl of Ukrainian Borscht, Potato Pancakes, and Beef Stroganoff from Veselka.
Phoenix, AZ
- Population: 1,658,422
- Home Price: $250,800 median purchase price; $1,100 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 6% of U.S. cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.6%
Dreaming of a big city with plenty of sunshine? The Valley of the Sun is the place to be! Phoenix is one of the best cities for real estate, thanks to its budget-friendly housing, year-round warm weather, and outdoor recreation. Though this major city has long been a favorite of snowbirds and retirees, Phoenix has a fairly young population that continues to grow—the median age is actually around 34. Considering Greater Phoenix has a growing job market, it comes as no surprise that young professionals and families are moving here each year.
Things to Do in Phoenix
Play 18 holes on a championship course, practice your swing at the driving range, or spend some time on the chipping green at Raven Golf Club. Visit Desert Botanical Garden to explore 140 acres of cacti, flowers, trees, and more. Hike the 16,000-acre South Mountain Park & Preserve for incredible views of the city. Join the local sports scene by rooting for Phoenix-area pro teams like the Phoenix Mercury (WNBA), Phoenix Suns (NBA), Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), and Arizona Cardinals (NFL). Get in some retail therapy at Scottsdale Fashion Square, where you can peruse stores like Kate Spade, Nordstrom, and ALO Yoga. Try the Sonny Boy, Rosa, or Biancoverde at Pizzeria Bianco, one of Downtown Phoenix’s best wood-fired pizza places. Or sip on one of the award-winning handcrafted cocktails at Bitter & Twisted.
Portland, OR
- Population: 650,380
- Home Price: $438,500 median purchase price; $1,325 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 3% of U.S. cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.8%
If you want to live in a top West Coast city but can’t afford California prices, consider living in Portland, OR! Known as the Silicon Forest, Portland and its surrounding areas have a robust job market with tech employers including Intel, Brandlive, and OpenSesame. The City of Roses is ideal for those who love outdoor recreation, as it’s home to many hiking trails and over 200 public parks and gardens. But it’s not just about outdoor activities in this Oregon city! With its quirky vibe, foodie scene, bike-friendly areas, and love of both coffee and craft beer, Portland is a true hipster haven!
Things to Do in Portland
Go kayaking, paddleboarding, or cruising on the Willamette River. Walk among over 10,000 roses at the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park. Hike through the Columbia River Gorge to surround yourself with lush greenery and discover hidden waterfalls. Break out your bike and participate in one of Portland’s many biking events. Cheer on Portland sports teams like the Portland Trail Blazers (NBA) and Portland Timbers (MLS) at their home games. Every July in Elizabeth Caruthers Park, enjoy beers, ciders, and wine-based cocktails all crafted within Portland city limits at the Portland Craft Beer Festival. Try unique donut creations like the Voodoo Doll and the Oh Captain, My Captain at the flagship Voodoo Doughnut. Or enjoy breakfast all day in Portland with dishes like the Corned Beef Hash and Eggs or the Pancake Sandwich at My Father’s Place.
San Diego, CA
- Population: 1,414,545
- Home Price: $629,500 median purchase price; $1,770 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 24% of U.S. cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.8%
If you’re dreaming of settling down in one of the best big cities in the U.S., San Diego could be the place for you! There’s no shortage of sunshine, beaches, and outdoor adventures in this top West Coast city. San Diego is popular among both military families and veterans, as Naval Base Coronado, Naval Base Point Loma, and several VA health facilities are located in the area. Another reason why people move to San Diego is its safety and affordability. The metro offers lower crime rates and more affordable neighborhoods compared to other major California cities like Los Angeles.
Things to Do in San Diego
Head to La Jolla Shores to go surfing and boating, or spend an afternoon along the boardwalk at Mission Beach. Visit the San Diego Zoo—one of the top zoos in the U.S.—to see red pandas, elephants, clouded leopards, and more. Check out the aquarium, hit the water park, hop on kid-friendly thrill rides, and build your own LEGO creations at LEGOLAND California. Get tickets to Comic-Con International: San Diego to get sneak peeks at upcoming comic books, TV shows, and movies. Dig into brunch favorites like Peach Ricotta Pancakes or a Mediterranean Breakfast paired with an Iced Brown Butter Latte at Madi. Or get out and explore top San Diego breweries—like AleSmith Brewing Company and Bay City Brewing Co—to learn what separates the West Coast IPA from other IPAs.
San Francisco, CA
- Population: 874,784
- Home Price: $1,152,300 median purchase price; $2,010 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 4% of U.S. cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.3%
Known for its iconic landmarks, vibrant LGBTQ+ community, safe neighborhoods, and lively cultural scene, San Francisco is a fantastic big city to call home! Those moving to San Francisco for job opportunities will find that the City by the Bay offers a thriving tech scene, home to companies such as Salesforce, Dropbox, and Instacart. San Fran is also one of the best cities for singles, thanks to its vibrant social scene and active lifestyle.
Things to Do in San Francisco
Tour Alcatraz Island, the infamous maximum security federal penitentiary where notorious criminal Al Capone was once held. Admire the San Francisco skyline while walking across the Golden Gate Bridge. Check out the hills and the “crookedest street in the world” of the famous Russian Hill neighborhood, Lombard Street. Spend the day outside at one of San Francisco’s many beaches, like Baker Beach, Crissy Field East Beach, and Marshall’s Beach—all part of the Presidio within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Spend the day with kids at family-friendly attractions like the San Francisco Zoo, Walt Disney Family Museum, or Aquarium of the Bay. For brunch in San Francisco, enjoy a Smoked Salmon Sandwich, Florentine Eggs Benedict, or Steel Cut Oats from Zazie. Or stop by for pub-style food paired with locally brewed beers such as the Nitro Imperial Stout or Presidio Pils from the San Francisco Brewing Co.
Seattle, WA
- Population: 741,251
- Home Price: $713,600 median purchase price; $1,702 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 2% of U.S. cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3%
An enormous seafood industry, a thriving arts scene, top tech companies headquartered in the area, a culture centered on good coffee, and unbeatable outdoor recreation have all helped put Seattle, WA on the map. As it’s one of the overall best places to live in the Pacific Northwest, the Emerald City is a great place for both families and young professionals. This bustling Pacific Northwest metro is even one of the best cities for jobs, thanks to career opportunities with large employers like Microsoft, Amazon, Starbucks, and Costco. Although the cost of living in Seattle can be high, Washington doesn’t have a state income tax, which helps offset some of the costs.
Things to Do in Seattle
Go hiking or camping in one of Seattle’s national parks nearby, including Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, or North Cascades National Park. View incredible art collections for free on the first Thursday of the month at the Seattle Art Museum. Visit Pike Place Market to pick out fresh produce and handcrafted home goods. Catch punk bands, singer-songwriters, indie alt groups, and more at one of Seattle’s best concert venues, The Showbox. Find your pro sports scene among Seattle teams like the Sounders FC (MLS), Seattle Mariners (MLB), Seattle Storm (WNBA), and Seattle Seahawks (NFL). Experience Seattle coffee at top spots like Storyville Coffee, Preserve and Gather, and Analog Coffee. Or get your fill of seafood like oysters, prawns, clams, and more at RockCreek Seafood & Spirits.
Washington, DC
- Population: 701,974
- Home Price: $618,100 median purchase price; $1,607
- Crime Rate: Safer than 6% of U.S. cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5%
Though it is a popular tourist destination, Washington, DC is a vibrant city with plenty to offer residents! DC offers a variety of diverse neighborhoods for families and young professionals looking to buy or rent a home. Those living in the DC area will find tons of activities—ranging from nightlife to museums and national landmarks—to keep them busy. Home to over 20 colleges and universities, students can get a first-rate education at schools like George Washington University, Georgetown University, or Howard University—and if they’re looking to go into politics, there’s no better place to learn and network than the nation’s capital!
Things to Do in Washington, DC
Learn about past American presidents by visiting the Lincoln Memorial and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial in the National Mall. All part of the Smithsonian Institution, visit the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Zoo. See the cherry blossoms bloom along the Tidal Basin during the National Cherry Blossom Festival each spring. Buy a variety of fresh produce, local goods, and specialty food at the Capitol Hill neighborhood’s Eastern Market, Washington, DC’s original and premier food & arts market. Root for Washington, DC sports teams like the Washington Commanders (NFL), Washington Nationals (MLB), Washington Capitals (NHL), DC United (MLS), and Washington Kastles (WTT). Enjoy brunch in Washington, DC with an order of Avocado Toast, French Toast, or Yogurt Parfait paired with a Cold-Brewed Iced Coffee from Le Diplomate. Or order American-inspired entrees like Coupla’ Buttermilk Biscuits, Chicken Pot Pie, or Meatloaf & White Gravy from Founding Farmers DC.
***
Ready to move to a big city? Extra Space Storage has conveniently located storage facilities across the U.S. that can help you with the transition. Rent storage space near you!
City statistics from AreaVibes
