Five Hoosier communities have received nationwide recognition among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Places to Live in the U.S. for 2025 – 2026. Highlighted in this annual report for their quality of life, affordability, strong job markets, and overall desirability, these standout cities showcase why Indiana continues to be an attractive location to live, work, and raise a family.
U.S. News & World Report’s Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2025-2026
U.S. News & World Reports analyzes both public data and user opinions on housing value, job market strength, quality of life, and overall desirability to compile their yearly ranking of the top 250 American cities to live in. Almost 1,000 cities are considered with five Indiana communities making the top 100, two of which ranked among the top ten.
Data from Applied Geographic Solutions, the U.S. Census Bureau, Department of Commerce, Federal Reserve, Bureau of Economic Analysis, and internal U.S. News resources are compiled to evaluate the five following assessment indexes:
- Quality of Life, considering Education, Health Care, Environmental Risk, and State Economy
- Value, considering Housing Affordability and Cost of Living
- Desirability, considering Crime Rates, Weather Temperatures, and Culture
- Job Market, considering Unemployment and Median Household Income
- Net Migration, considering Annual Percentage Population Change
Indiana Communities Recognized in the Best Places to Live Rankings
- #2: Carmel
- #4: Fishers
- #50: Noblesville
- #91: Greenwood
- #92: Columbus
For all of your real estate needs throughout Indiana and beyond, contact us at 317.660.4444 or visit our website to learn more about our services and to be connected with an experienced advisor to assist you.
*Images sourced from Envato Stock Images
Encore Sotheby’s International Realty is a boutique residential real estate brokerage providing home sellers and buyers with a luxury level of service in Indiana and beyond. Specializing in the central, northeast and northwest regions of Indiana, the firm operates out of offices in Carmel, Indianapolis, Zionsville, Fort Wayne, and Syracuse. Backed by the world-class Sotheby’s International Realty brand, clients benefit from local expertise with global reach. For all of your real estate needs, call 317.660.4444 or visit encoresothebysrealty.com.
The Art of Distinction Blog by Encore Sotheby's International Realty 
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