Naperville has been crowned the best city to live in the country.
Niche, an online ranking and review database, has published its annual ranking of the "Best Cities to Live in America." The list consists of a rigorous analysis of statistics and data from the U.S Department of Education, Bureau of Labor Statistics, the FBI and more. 230 cities across the country were given scores in 12 different categories, including diversity, schooling, safety, cost of living and outdoor activities. Naperville received an overall A+ Niche grade.
The Southwest suburb is home to roughly 150,000 and long been a bustling suburban area outside the city of Chicago. In combination with highly ranked public schools, the database also praised the local restaurant scene and available park space that make it an attractive option for raising a family. According to Niche, Naperville’s median household income of $143,000 is nearly double the national standard.
The Southwest suburb of Chicago also took the top spot in the "Best Cities to Raise a Family” and “Cities with the Best Public Schools" categories. But it wasn’t the only city in the Prairie State that made the list of best places to live—Springfield ranked at No. 102, Peoria came in at No. 114 and Elgin at No. 119.
Chicago, the state’s largest metropolitan area, ranked at No. 76. The Windy City received its highest scores for diversity, nightlife, outdoor activities, commute and health. Chicago was ranked as the 10th "Most Diverse City in America" and 21st "Best City for Young Professionals."