What constitutes the ideal hometown? Forbes.com recently published an article that listed the top cities of origin in the United States and the characteristics that were important to their residents. It is interesting to see the different qualities that people consider important in a city.
Little Rock, Arkansas:
Apparently, the cultural scene in Little Rock is outstanding with places like the Symphony, the Rep theater, art museums, historic sites, and great Louisiana-influenced restaurants. Add to this, excellent medical facilities, beautiful natural surroundings and you have the perfect recipe for a great hometown.
Huntington Beach, California:
Its proximity to Orange County, Los Angeles, and Long Beach is unbeatable. The options for recreational activities, cultural spaces, industries and higher education are almost endless. The weather and surf are among the best in the state.
San Jose, California:
San Jose has close proximity to San Francisco, Carmel, the Giant Redwoods, and Lake Tahoe. The climate is among the best in the world, and Silicon Valley is teeming with jobs. San José favorites include La Maison De Café and the San José Museum of Art.
Aurora, Colorado:
Aurora is most loved for its many trails and parks that allow for year-round recreational activities. There are also numerous business and career opportunities.
Fort Collins, Colorado:
What is not loving here? Fort Collins has beautiful mountainous landscapes, a diverse and active industrial sector, proximity to major cities, and world-class schools. High points include the vibrant Old Town that is buzzing with activity most nights and weekends, and best of all, public parking rates as low as 50 cents for two hours.
Tampa, Florida:
This Florida hometown has great weather, good tax policy, and is a great place to start a business.
Skokie, Illinois:
Skokie has that small town feel with big city amenities. Residents love the excellent transportation system and the new Science and Technology Park that continues to attract high-tech companies around the world. It’s the kind of family-friendly city that has great parks and schools, and still has block parties.
Indianapolis, Indiana:
In addition to the variety of businesses, good transportation system, and reasonable cost of living, Indianapolis residents love the safe and friendly downtown area. It is full of restaurants and entertainment venues and has excellent sports facilities.
Marblehead, Massachusetts:
Marblehead is a coastal city east of Boston. It is a unique town, full of artistic and cultural diversity, and with an active population. When summer rolls around, the beaches are packed with residents who enjoy the warm-weather activities that are common in coastal settings.
Omaha, Nebraska:
Omaha has a lower unemployment and foreclosure rate than most states, short work trips, and a relatively low cost of living. Residents love the “Playing With Fire” music event that includes five free concerts downtown during the summer.
Fort Worth, Texas:
Fort Worth is the kind of place where you will always find a familiar face and where people take care of their city and their fellow residents.
Park City, Utah:
This family-friendly city is known for its excellent schools and excellent ski resorts and golf courses. Resident’s top picks include the resorts of Deer Valley, The Canyons, and Park City Mountain.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin:
Milwaukee has the longest ride in the area at just 30 minutes. They also have a booming and diverse industrial sector. City highlights include 10 days of lakeside concerts during Summerfest and backdoor parties at Miller Park.
