Having kids can change a couple’s perspective about finding a place to live. Cities that once seemed exciting or full of opportunity can quickly begin to feel cramped and unlivable when a baby enters the picture. Families looking for a fresh start in a place with good schools, low crime rates, home-buying opportunities, and plenty of access to outdoor recreation should keep these places in mind when choosing where to relocate.
Madison, Wisconsin
The Midwest offers some of the most affordable and livable cities for families. One of the best is Madison, Wisconsin, the state capital and home to a booming University of Wisconsin campus. The downtown is a hub of activity and culture, providing plenty of activities, restaurants, and playscapes for kids. Madison is built around three lakes, and the city takes advantage of its waterfront property with well-maintained parks and walking trails. Since its population skews towards young adults, new parents and younger families report finding friendships and robust neighborhood communities of folks in the same life stage as them. Neighborhoods in Madison are tree-lined and usually within walking distance of multiple parks. Families looking to buy a home find a large selection of unique and well-maintained houses with ample backyard space. Madison’s relatively affordable cost of living and low crime rates make it an attractive choice for middle-class families.
Southern California
Southern California is an obvious choice for a family-friendly region, boasting temperate weather, endless family activities, and plenty of beautiful coastline. While the biggest cities may come to mind first, the best spots for family life are smaller, more affordable cities that can offer children a better quality and pace of life. Poway, located in San Diego County, is one such gem, offering beautiful outdoor parks and water recreation opportunities. The schools are some of the most highly ranked in the region. The Irvine area is another popular destination for folks looking for kid-inclusive recreation and ample job opportunities. Families looking to buy a home in the area will find beautiful houses for sale in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa, as well as many other beautiful towns and cities.
Seattle, Washington
Few cities share the proximity and easy access to natural beauty as Seattle. Built along the Puget Sound, Seattle is only a few hours drive from Washington’s stunning natural parks and mountain ranges. Parents who work in the technology sector will find a robust job market full of opportunities that pay above the national average and offer family-friendly benefits like generous vacation time, childcare stipends, and excellent health insurance. In addition to highly rated public-school districts, Seattle has many private and alternative education options, including language immersion programs and Montessori schools. Though the winters can be rainy and gray, the overall moderate climate means that kids can access Seattle’s diverse city and neighborhood parks year-round.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale is best known for its population of snowbirds and immaculate resorts; however, it is continually attracting more families as its reputation for excellent schools and low crime rates gain national attention. Across the board, students in both private and public Scottsdale schools score well above the national average on standardized tests, including the SAT and ACT. Scottsdale is next to Tonto National Forest, where families can bike, hike, and explore the region’s natural beauty. The city’s Parks and Recreation Department even offers a range of summer and after-school programs for local kids. The income of most Scottsdale families is high, and the cost of living in the city is manageable when weighed against the many benefits.
The Northeast
While some of the big cities in this region have become too cramped and unaffordable for many families, smaller towns offer the beauty and culture of the Northeast without the traffic and high cost of living. Portland, Maine, is known for its friendly communities. Many of its neighborhoods have a rural feel that is a perfect fit for families looking for big-city amenities and a small-town atmosphere. Families wanting to experience the region’s beauty in a smaller setting often choose Newton or Framingham in Massachusetts. Both cities have remarkably low crime rates, a large population of young families, and highly rated schools.