New York, L.A., and Vegas see millions of tourists flocking to them yearly, and many Americans choose to settle there. However, some cities go under the radar when they have something unique to offer. We take a look at 21 U.S. cities you will want to call home as soon as you visit.
Asheville, North Carolina
Due to its location in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a popular destination for nature lovers. Whitewater rafting and hiking are popular pursuits, and others love to take in the stunning mountain views at a slower pace by camping and fishing. The city also enjoys a vibrant arts and music scene with year-round events.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
The Sangre de Cristo Mountains are home to Santa Fe and are one of the most beautiful places in the U.S. You can get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and locals can enjoy a slower pace of life. People who have lived in Sante Fe their whole lives never tire of the picturesque adobe architecture and traditional neighborhoods that give the city its unique charm.
Portland, Maine
Foodies cannot get enough of Portland’s thriving culinary scene, where you can sample fresh seafood straight off the docks, explore farmers’ markets, and indulge in craft beers. Throughout the year, Portland comes alive with festivals celebrating everything from food and wine to art and music. Census data from 2020-2022 revealed that population growth in Maine during this time was due to people moving from other cities and countries, much is the appeal of Maine, Portland in particular.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a city steeped in history and alive with Southern charm, both factors that draw in new residents. Antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and horse-drawn carriages, alongside welcoming residents, make this a top choice for people looking to move cities.
Austin, Texas
Houston and Dallas usually get all the praise when it comes to the best cities in Texas, but Austin is giving them a run for their money. People say Austin has a quirky feel with pockets of creativity across the city, from interesting museums to thriving bars, as well as the Zilker Park stadium, where you can catch the best music in town.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is steeped in Southern Gothic charm with its beautifully preserved historic district, the largest in the United States. Residents are known for their warm and welcoming nature, creating a strong sense of community that makes tourists want to stay.
San Diego, California
Beyond the world-famous beaches, San Diego offers a blend of Mexican heritage, craft beer culture, and world-class museums. Tourists and locals can explore Balboa Park’s gardens and museums, visit the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, and savor delicious Baja-inspired cuisine.
Denver, Colorado
Denver’s location at the foot of the Rocky Mountains makes it a paradise for outdoor adventurers. Whether hiking through stunning scenery, biking along the many scenic trails, or visiting the Red Rocks Amphitheatre for an outdoor concert, there is always something to keep residents entertained.
Portland, Oregon
Portland is known for its quirky spirit, abundant microbreweries, independent coffee shops, and a thriving food cart scene. Portland is also home to Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world, and generally attracts creatives and young professionals.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Known as The “City of Lakes,” Minneapolis offers a wealth of cultural attractions and outdoor activities for residents of all ages. The Minneapolis Institute of Art and the scenic and newly revitalized Minneapolis Riverfront are popular weekend attractions, and you can catch a game at the iconic Target Center.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Often overlooked, Cincinnati boasts a buzzing arts scene, a historic riverfront, and some of the best chili in the U.S. Findlay Market is one of the oldest public markets in the country, and the Cincinnati Art Museum is just a couple of things you can do in the city. Compared to many water-front cities, Cincinnati offers a lower cost of living, allowing you to stretch your dollar further regarding housing, dining, and entertainment, which is a good reason for people to stay.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Balloon enthusiasts flock to Albuquerque yearly for the International Balloon Fiesta, but the city offers much more. Popular attractions include the Petroglyph National Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Sandia Mountains. Old Town Albuquerque offers a taste of Hispanic culture, and people admire the unique adobe architecture.
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is a hub for jazz and barbecue lovers who want to immerse themselves in the city’s rich musical culture. Food is another major draw, with multiple award-winning barbecue joints. Creatives can explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and visit the Crossroads Arts District on the last Friday of the month when it comes alive with art walks, gallery openings, live music, and street performers.
Nashville, Tennessee
Beyond the honky-tonk bars, Nashville offers a lively music scene beyond country music. Printer’s Alley is a place to visit for live music, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum are must-sees for music lovers. Nashville’s economy is booming, focusing on healthcare, music, tourism, and technology industries, meaning there are many job opportunities to support people who want to move to the area.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Surrounded by towering mountains and the Great Salt Lake, Salt Lake City offers stunning scenery and a unique cultural experience that many are drawn to. Temple Square is the heart of the Mormon religion, and there are world-class ski resorts and a popular arts scene.
Charleston, West Virginia
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Charleston offers a charming, small-town feel with big-city amenities, making it the perfect blend for people who like the best of both worlds. Capitol Market, a public market that combines the charm of an outdoor farmer’s market with the convenience of indoor specialty shops, is a major attraction in the city and a place where the community comes together.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee has a rich cultural scene with world-class museums like the Milwaukee Art Museum, renowned performing arts organizations like the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and a vibrant theater scene. Several festivals throughout the year celebrate everything from ethnic heritage to summer celebrations, like Summerfest, the “Big Gig,” one of the biggest music festivals in the U.S.
Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage has stunning scenery wherever you look and is a haven for outdoor lovers. Hiking, biking, skiing, and wildlife viewing are all within easy reach of the city. People wanting to get away from it all to enjoy a more natural way of life have seen the population increase significantly over the past ten years.
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride is a popular location for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, where panoramic views offer a constant connection to nature. The city offers a charming, small-town atmosphere where you can stroll down the historic Main Street lined with Victorian-era buildings, unique shops, and art galleries.
Medora, North Dakota
Medora sits within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, offering breathtaking scenery with dramatic badlands landscapes, rolling prairies, and abundant wildlife. Steeped in the history of the American West, Medora offers a chance to experience cowboy culture and the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt. There’s always lots to do with museums, historical sites, and events like the Medora Musical in summer tradition.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea has an almost fairytale-like atmosphere with enchanting European-style architecture, flower-lined streets, and a quaint village feel. It’s hard not to fall in love with the city, especially as it boasts beautiful beaches, numerous art galleries, studios, and events. With a population of under 4,000, residents enjoy a genuine small-town feel.
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