The Best Places to Live with Small Children

The best places to live with small children are usually not the same cities you would go to for spring break or for tourist attractions. Parents who are searching for the right place to raise their young kids want family-friendly environments with quality school systems, affordable real estate and low crime statistics.

  1. Buffalo, New York

    • "Forbes" magazine rates Buffalo, New York, as one of the top cities to raise small kids. Buffalo is a town in upstate New York that offers residents affordability and short commutes. It ranks high in terms of its education system and public schools, which many parents appreciate. In addition, Buffalo is near Niagara Falls, so your children can grow up close to a popular tourist destination. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2009 the population in Buffalo was 270,240.

    Eden Prairie, Minnesota

    • If you are looking for a low-populated city to raise your small kids, Eden Prairie, Minnesota, may be right for you. CNN Money ranks Eden Prairie as the No. 1 place to live in the United States for 2010. Parents of young kids will appreciate the fact that the population is 64,000, with an unemployment rate of 5.1 percent. The city offers families plenty of outdoor activities in the surrounding hills, mountains and lakes. And parents can take comfort in the fact that Eden Prairie has a low crime rate, too.

    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

    • For families that want to live in the East, but not so far as New England, they may enjoy settling down in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. "Forbes" magazine recommends Pittsburgh to families who are interested in raising their kids in a city with low crime, solid educational system and a high home ownership rate. Pittsburgh used to be a manufacturing and industrial hub, but has undergone changes and new developments to help boost its economy and job opportunities. The city also offers families exposure to culture and the arts.

    Ogden-Clearfield, Utah

    • If you want to move your family out West, consider Ogden-Clearfield, Utah. This city ranks high in educational ratings and is affordable for families. A 2009 article in "Forbes" magazine says that Ogden-Clearfield, Utah has very low unemployment rates and crime rates, and is considered one of the cheapest cities in which to live. The population in Ogden-Clearfield, Utah is 531,500, making it an ideal option for families that want an easy lifestyle in a family friendly atmosphere.

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