The Best Places to Live to Raise Kids

When choosing a place to start a family and raise kids, you not only have to take your values and finances into consideration but also research just how sustainable and safe a location is for children. While many places are suitable to raise children, many experts recommend smaller cities where you and your family will have plenty of resources and entertainment options available, yet you won't have to deal with the cost and problems of large cities.

  1. Burlington, Vermont

    • Burlington, Vermont's largest city, is a prime place to raise kids, according to Men's Health Magazine. Situated on Lake Champlain, Burlington offers more than access to nature and fall foliage. The city's schools have very high graduation rates and their per-pupil spending is some of the highest in the nation. Burlington also has the lowest ratio of fast food restaurants per capita, making it one of the slimmest and healthiest cities in the nation.

    Des Moines, Iowa

    • Des Moines, Iowa's capital and most populous city, is another one of the best place to raise kids, according to Forbes Magazine. The city ranks among the top five educational systems in the country and is also very safe. Des Moines has a thriving arts and culture scene, as well as easy access to outdoor activities, giving you the chance to raise your children on entertainment other than video games and television.

    Boulder, Colorado

    • If you are interested in raising your children with an awareness for the outdoors, then choose Boulder, Colorado, located an hour away from Denver, according to Backpacker Magazine. Named America's "smartest" and "most livable" city by Forbes, Boulder offers a safe environment and serves as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, where your kids can hike and ski. Boulder is home to 105 miles of bike trails, making it ideal for a family that is active and enjoys getting out of the house.

    Beaverton, Oregon

    • Business Week named Beaverton, Oregon, one of the best places in the country to raise a family. Located only 7 miles west of the big city of Portland, Beaverton is much smaller, with a population of 87,676. Green space is important to the people of Beaverton as there is a park within a half mile of every person who lives there. Beaverton has strong public schools and is also home to Catlin Gabel, a well-respected private school. Families in Beaverton also have easy access to the beach and the mountains for outdoor excursions.

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