# The Honest Local > A community forum for neighbors. Honest guides to living in American cities and states, live readings on cost, housing, jobs and air with their public sources, and the locals' own verdicts. ## What this site is The Honest Local publishes city and state guides written by locals, a running thread of comments and verdicts under every guide, and public-data tools built from government and industry sources: rankings, a weekly Movers' Report, side-by-side place comparisons and a monthly Honest Index. ## The data rules Every number on this site carries its public source and the period it covers, next to the value. A reading is dropped, not estimated, once it goes stale. Each tool refreshes on its own source's cycle, not on a fixed schedule, so two pages can be current as of different dates. Cite the page and its date, not just the figure. ## State guides (50) - [14 honest pros and cons of living in Alabama](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-alabama-moving/): Move here for the low cost of living, the outdoor recreation and the Southern cooking. Think twice if the summers, the bugs or the healthcare system would wear on you. - [21 honest pros and cons of living in Alaska](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-alaska-moving/): Move here for the wild scenery, the outdoor life and the yearly dividend check. Think twice if the winter darkness or the high cost of everything would wear on you, and don’t expect a break from the mosquitoes. - [20 honest pros and cons of living in Arizona](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-arizona-moving/): Move here for winters you can skip, landscapes everywhere you look, dry air, safe suburbs, and big employers that keep arriving. Think twice if the summer heat, the dust storms or the wildlife would wear on you, and don’t expect a job market with much breadth. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Arkansas](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-arkansas-moving/): Move here for the outdoors, the cheap housing and the low income and property taxes. Think twice if the schools, the healthcare or the high sales tax would wear on you, and don’t expect a job outside Northwest Arkansas. - [20 honest pros and cons of living in California](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-california-moving/): Move here for the outdoors, the food and the mild winters. Think twice if the wildfires, the taxes, the traffic or the homelessness would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Colorado](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-in-colorado-moving/): Move here for the mountains and the sunshine, world-class outdoor recreation, a job market that’s more than one company deep, and neighbors who are healthy and friendly. - [12 honest pros and cons of living in Connecticut](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-in-connecticut-moving/): Move here for the outdoors, the public schools and the change of seasons. Think twice if the taxes or the electricity bill would wear on you, and don’t expect friendly neighbors. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Delaware](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-delaware-moving/): Move here for no sales tax, the beaches, and towns that still feel close-knit. Think twice if the addiction and drug problem, the pollution or Wilmington’s troubles would wear on you. - [20 honest pros and cons of living in Florida](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-florida-moving/): Move here for the beaches, the boat culture, and paying no state income tax. Think twice if the hurricane insurance, the summer humidity or the bugs would wear on you. - [16 honest pros and cons of living in Georgia](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-georgia-moving/): Move here for the mild winters, the low cost of living and the outdoor recreation. Think twice if the summer humidity or the bugs would wear on you, and don’t buy the notion that friendly means accepting. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Hawaii](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-hawaii-moving/): Move here for the outdoors, the fresh fruit and the year-round weather. Think twice if the housing costs or the tourist season would wear on you, and don’t expect to ever feel like a local. - [12 honest reasons not to move to Mississippi](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-mississippi-moving/): Move here for the low cost of living and the cheap homes. By the author’s own count, that’s the whole list. Think twice if the schools, the low life expectancy or the tap water would wear on you, and don’t expect a career. - [12 honest pros and cons of living in Idaho](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-idaho-moving/): Move here for the nature, the friendly locals, low crime, a flat income tax that keeps getting cut, and a cost of living that’s fine outside of housing. Think twice if the job market, the public schools, the wildfire smoke or the long winter drives to anywhere would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Illinois](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-illinois-moving/): Move here for the job market, the affordable housing outside Chicago and easy access to the city without living in it. Think twice if the winters, the property taxes or the political corruption would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Indiana](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-indiana-moving/): Move here for the low cost of living, the affordable houses and the friendly locals. Think twice if the winters, the summers or the wages would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Iowa](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-iowa-moving/): Move here for the low cost of living, the strong sense of community and the small town energy. Think twice if the politics or the limited career opportunities would wear on you, and don’t expect much of a food scene. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Kansas](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-kansas-moving/): Move here for the low taxes, cheap land and a slower pace of life. Think twice if the tornadoes or the relentless wind would wear on you, and don’t expect a big-city fix. - [17 honest pros and cons of living in Kentucky](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-of-living-in-kentucky/): Move here for the low property taxes, the bourbon and outdoor recreation, and a city that still feels affordable. Think twice if the job market, the public schools or the racism you’ll be told is just heritage would wear on you. - [18 honest pros and cons of living in Louisiana](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-louisiana-moving/): Move here for the food, the music and festivals, and a culture that treats strangers like family. By the author’s own count, her cons outnumber her pros two to one. Think twice if the violent crime, the poverty, the pollution or the hurricanes would wear on you. - [10 honest pros and cons of living in Maine](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-in-maine-moving/): Move here for the summers, the coast and the clean air, a crime rate among the lowest in the country, and towns that leave you alone in the best way. Think twice if the job market would wear on you, and don't expect a mild winter or a night out that runs past nine. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Maryland](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-maryland-moving/): Move here for the schools, the healthcare, and the crab cakes. Think twice if the traffic or the taxes would wear on you, and don’t expect a cheap mortgage. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Massachusetts](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-massachusetts-moving/): Move here for the schools, the healthcare and the history at every turn. Think twice if the housing prices or the winters would wear on you, and don’t expect a chatty neighbor. - [14 honest pros and cons of living in Michigan](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-of-living-in-michigan-moving/): Move here for the lakes, the low cost of living and small-town friendliness. Think twice if the winters, the roads or Detroit’s crime stats would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Minnesota](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-of-living-in-minnesota/): Move here for the lakes, the low cost of living and the quality of life. Think twice if the winters or the mosquitoes would wear on you, and don’t expect to be quickly let into anyone’s friend group. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Missouri](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-missouri-moving/): Move here for the cheap housing, the outdoor recreation and the friendly locals. Think twice if the healthcare, the crime rates or the humid summers would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Montana](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-montana-moving/): Move here for the outdoors, the space to roam and no sales tax. Think twice if the housing prices, the winters or the long drive to anything resembling a city would wear on you. - [14 honest pros and cons of living in Nebraska](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-nebraska-moving/): Move here for the cheap housing, the low unemployment and the outdoor recreation. Think twice if the property taxes, the winters or the wide-open scenery that never changes would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Nevada](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-of-living-in-nevada/): Move here for no state income tax, sunshine nearly every day, mountains you didn’t expect, and winters that barely count. Think twice if the job market, the public schools, the healthcare or a summer you’ll spend hiding from the heat would wear on you. - [17 honest pros and cons of living in New Hampshire](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-new-hampshire/): Move here for the low taxes, the mountains and the charming towns. Think twice if the property tax bill or the winters would wear on you, and don’t expect much from the food. - [16 honest pros and cons of living in New Jersey](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-new-jersey-moving/): Move here for the food, the schools and not pumping your own gas. Think twice if the property taxes, the traffic or Newark Airport would wear on you. - [22 honest pros and cons of living in New Mexico](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-new-mexico-moving/): Move here for the sunshine and the dry air, the green chile and the food built around it, relaxed people, and a low cost of living and affordable housing. Think twice if the job market and its salaries, the windy season or a drought that keeps getting worse would wear on you, and don’t expect much nightlife. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in New York State](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-new-york-state-moving/): Move here for the outdoor recreation, the slower pace and homes you can actually afford. Think twice if the property taxes, the winters or the ticks would wear on you. - [14 honest pros and cons of living in North Carolina](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-of-living-north-carolina-moving/): Move here for the mountains and beaches, the barbecue and the low cost of living. Think twice if the summer humidity, the hurricanes or the public schools would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in North Dakota](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-north-dakota/): Move here for the low taxes, the job market and a sense of community that still checks in on you. Think twice if the winters or the isolation would wear on you, and don’t expect much shopping. - [15 Honest Pros and Cons of Living in OHIO](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-of-living-in-ohio-moving/): Move here for cheap houses, a low cost of living, three real cities to choose from, and the sports, beer and Midwest friendliness that come with them. Don’t move here for the scenery, the rust belt job market, the humid summers and winter snowstorms, or a place where racism is out in the open. - [12 honest pros and cons of living in Oklahoma](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-of-living-oklahoma-moving/): Move here for the low cost of living, the affordable housing and neighbors who’ll actually help you. By the author’s own count, that’s the whole list, against nine cons. Think twice if the schools, the tornadoes or the long winters would wear on you, or if you skip church. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Pennsylvania](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-pennsylvania-moving/): Move here for the low cost of living, the outdoor recreation and the tax breaks for retirees. Think twice if the property taxes, the humid summers or Philadelphia’s crime and grime would wear on you. - [10 honest pros and cons of living in Rhode Island](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-rhode-island-moving/): Move here for the beaches, the compact size and easy access to Boston and New York. Think twice if the high cost of living, the taxes, the winters or the job market would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in South Carolina](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-south-carolina-moving/): Move here for the low cost of living, the beaches and the mild winters. Think twice if the summer heat, the hurricanes or the alligators in your golf game would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in South Dakota](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-south-dakota/): Move here for the low taxes, the outdoor recreation and the friendly locals. Think twice if the winters or the wind would wear on you, and don’t expect much shopping. - [14 honest pros and cons of living in Tennessee](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-tennessee-moving/): Move here for the outdoors, a low cost of living and no state income tax, mild winters, and the food and the music. Think twice if the crime rate, the wages, the roads or summers with their heat, pollen and bugs would wear on you. - [18 honest pros and cons of living in Texas](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-texas-moving/): Move here for the low taxes, the job market and the barbecue. Think twice if the summers, the property taxes or the bugs would wear on you. - [16 honest pros and cons of living in the US Virgin Islands](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-the-us-virgin-islands/): Move here for the beaches, the sunshine, and a life that feels like permanent vacation mode. Think twice if the hurricanes, the power outages, the cost of living or the roads would wear on you, and don’t expect a job you didn’t bring with you. - [18 honest pros and cons of living in Utah](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-utah-moving/): Move here for the outdoors, the winter skiing and the low property taxes. Think twice if the dry air or the wildfire smoke would wear on you, and don’t expect a stiff drink. - [17 honest pros and cons of living in Vermont](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-vermont-moving/): Move here for the greenest state in the country, some of the safest towns, real winters with things to do in them, and a craft beer scene that’s off the charts. Think twice if the cost of living would wear on you, and don’t expect a career with a ladder or locals who warm up fast. - [12 Honest Pros and Cons of Living in Virginia](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-virginia-moving/): Move here for friendly people and a bit of everything, the outdoors, low crime, great public schools, and Washington close enough to commute. Don’t move here for the cost of living, the drivers and the traffic, or an allergy season that runs straight into a humid summer. - [15 Honest Pros and Cons of Living in Washington State](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-washington-state/): Move here for the summers, the mountains and the water, no tax on your wages, and the jobs that pay for all of it. Don’t move here for the gray, the housing market, the sales tax, or a summer without wildfire smoke. - [15 Honest Pros and Cons of Living in West Virginia](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-west-virginia/): Move here for one of the lowest costs of living in America, houses you can actually own, and scenery that lives up to the song. Don’t move here for the schools, the healthcare, the infrastructure, or a state that’s fighting the worst overdose rate in the country. - [15 Honest Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-wisconsin-moving/): Move here for kind locals, a low cost of living, good healthcare and public schools, picture-perfect summers, and the beer. Don’t move here for the winters, the tax burden, the mosquitoes, or an easy time breaking into a state that’s insular by habit. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Wyoming](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-wyoming-moving/): Move here for cheap housing, no state income tax, wonderful summers, and a state that’s astonishingly beautiful and safe. Think twice if the winters, the wind or the long drives would wear on you, and don’t expect a town where your business stays your own. ## City guides (39) - [15 Honest Pros and Cons of Living in Asheville (North Carolina)](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-asheville-north-carolina/): Move here for the mountains at your door, the breweries and the music, mild weather most of the year, and a community that shows up for each other. Don’t move here for a cost of living that doesn’t add up, for easy ways in and out, or for a city that’s still finding its footing after Helene. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Atlanta, Georgia](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-atlanta-georgia/): Move here for the friendly locals, the food scene, mild winters, a cost of living that’s still reasonable, and an airport that gets you anywhere. Think twice if the transit, the summer humidity, the sprawl and the traffic would wear on you, and don’t expect much variety in the outdoors. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Austin](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-austin-texas/): Move here for the outdoor recreation, the music and food scene, and no state income tax. Think twice if the traffic, the summer heat or the cold shoulder from locals tired of transplants would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Baltimore](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-baltimore-moving/): Move here for the crab, the low cost of living and the history around every corner. Think twice if the crime, the public schools or the dirty streets would wear on you. - [10 honest pros and cons of living in Boise, Idaho](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-boise-idaho-moving/): Move here for the outdoors, a strong job market and a downtown worth going to. Think twice if home prices that have outrun wages, the public schools or the lack of diversity would wear on you. - [24 honest pros and cons of living in Boston](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-boston-moving/): Move here for the history, the green space and a job market that’s actually hiring. Think twice if the winters or the parking would wear on you, and don’t expect a landlord who answers your calls. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Charleston, South Carolina](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-charleston-moving/): Move here for the food, the beach on a weekday, nine good months of weather, and a pace of life that lets you enjoy them. Think twice if the housing market, the school districts, the summer humidity, or the mosquitoes and the tourists would wear on you. Both arrive in swarms. - [15 Honest Pros and Cons of Living in Charlotte, NC](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-charlotte-north-carolina/): Move here for the relaxed pace, the low cost of living, a strong job market, and Southern hospitality with all four seasons. Don’t move here for the crime rate, the driving, the mosquitoes, or a culture scene that’s still catching up to the skyline. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Chicago](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-chicago-illinois-moving/): Move here for the people and the culture, the food, the architecture, and a city you can get around without a car. Think twice if the winters, the crime rate or the traffic would wear on you, and don’t expect a landscape with a hill in it. - [14 honest pros and cons of living in Cincinnati](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-cincinnati-moving/): Move here for the neighborhoods, the food and beer culture, and a job market bigger than the city’s size suggests. Think twice if the winter driving on those hills, the gray skies or the divide between the two Cincinnatis would wear on you. - [10 honest pros and cons of living in Colorado Springs](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-colorado-springs-moving/): Move here for the mountain access, the good public schools and Garden of the Gods being free. Think twice if the housing costs or the lack of culture would wear on you, or if mega-churches aren’t your scene. - [14 honest pros and cons of living in Dallas, Texas](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-of-living-in-dallas-moving/): Move here for warm people, no state income tax, sunshine most of the year, and homes that are still affordable on a real paycheck. Think twice if the property taxes, the flat sprawl you’ll drive across every day, the extreme weather or the cockroaches that come with the lease would wear on you. - [20 honest pros and cons of living in Denver](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-denver-moving/): Move here for the mountain access, the sunshine and the beer scene. Think twice if the altitude adjustment, the long snowy winters or the traffic on the way into the mountains would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Detroit](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-detroit-moving/): Move here for the cheap houses, the food scene and all four pro sports teams downtown. Think twice if the winters, the schools or a public transit system that barely exists would wear on you. - [11 honest pros and cons of living in Honolulu](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-honolulu-oahu-moving/): Move here for the beaches, the outdoor life and the Aloha Spirit. Think twice if the cost of living or the traffic would wear on you, and don’t expect a quick escape when island fever hits. - [16 honest pros and cons of living in Houston, Texas](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-houston-texas/): Move here for no state income tax, homes that are still relatively affordable, top-notch healthcare, and a food scene as varied as the people. Think twice if the humidity, the hurricanes or the bugs would wear on you, and don’t expect a commute that doesn’t involve a car and some patience. - [14 honest pros and cons of living in Indianapolis](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-indianapolis-moving/): Move here for the affordable housing, the strong job market and the sports culture. Think twice if the gray winters, the car-dependent sprawl or the crime rate in certain neighborhoods would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Jacksonville, Florida](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-jacksonville-florida-moving/): Move here for the beaches, the low cost of living and a job market that doesn’t require a lottery win. Think twice if the crime, the rising homelessness, the traffic or the schools would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Las Vegas](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-las-vegas-nevada/): Move here for the low taxes, the outdoor recreation and the endless things to do. Think twice if the summer heat or the schools would wear on you, and don’t expect a neighbor who’ll learn your name. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Los Angeles, California](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-los-angeles-california/): Move here for the food scene, the outdoor access and the sheer variety of people chasing something. Think twice if the traffic or the rent would wear on you, and don’t expect a job market that actually cooperates. - [20 honest pros and cons of living in Miami](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-miami-moving/): Move here for the beaches, the food scene and a lack of state income tax. Think twice if the summer humidity or the traffic would wear on you, and don’t expect an affordable home. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Minneapolis](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-in-minneapolis/): Move here for the parks, the biking and the job opportunities. Think twice if the winters or the taxes would wear on you, and don’t expect an easy time making friends. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Nashville](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-nashville-tennessee-moving/): Move here for the greenways, the low taxes and the live music scene. Think twice if the housing prices or the public schools would wear on you, and don’t expect walkability. - [16 honest pros and cons of living in New Orleans](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-new-orleans-louisiana-moving/): Move here for the food, the music and streets where a beer to go is just normal life. Think twice if the summers, the potholes, the bugs or the job market would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Orlando, Florida](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-in-orlando-florida-moving/): Move here for the theme parks, the sunshine and paying no state income tax. Think twice if the traffic on I-4 or the summer humidity would wear on you, and don’t expect an easy time making friends. - [20 honest pros and cons of living in Philadelphia](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-philadelphia-moving/): Move here for big-town amenities at a low cost of living, transit that works, history on every block, and neighborhoods you can walk and bike. Think twice if the wage tax, the parking, the crime or a job market that hasn’t caught up to the city would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Phoenix](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-phoenix-moving/): Move here for the outdoor recreation, the affordable cost of living and the constant sunshine. Think twice if the summer heat would wear on you, and don’t expect walkability or much downtown nightlife. - [9 honest pros and cons of living in Portland, Maine](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-portland-maine-moving/): Move here for the food scene, the harbor and the small-town community. Think twice if the winters or the limited job market would wear on you, and don’t expect big-city amenities. - [17 honest pros and cons of living in Salt Lake City](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-salt-lake-city-moving/): Move here for the mountains, the job market and a downtown that still feels lively. Think twice if the winter inversions or the drought would wear on you, and don’t expect a stiff drink. - [18 honest pros and cons of living in San Antonio, Texas](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-san-antonio-texas-moving/): Move here for the low cost of living, the Tex-Mex food scene and the River Walk. Think twice if the summer heat, the property taxes or the fire ants would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in San Diego](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-of-living-in-san-diego/): Move here for the weather, the beaches and the taco culture. Think twice if the rent or the traffic would wear on you, and don’t expect a car-free life. - [18 honest pros and cons of living in San Francisco](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-san-francisco-pros-cons/): Move here for the food, the public transit and the outdoor access. Think twice if the rent or the traffic would wear on you, and don’t expect a healthy work-life balance. - [12 honest pros and cons of living in San Jose, California](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-san-jose-california-moving/): Move here for the tech jobs, the mild climate and the food scene. Think twice if the home prices would wear on you, and don’t expect work-life balance or a tax break. - [20 honest pros and cons of living in Seattle](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-seattle-pros-cons/): Move here for the outdoors, the tech salaries and the no state income tax. Think twice if the gray winters, the housing prices or the traffic would wear on you, and don’t expect to make friends quickly. - [14 honest pros and cons of living in St. Louis](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-st-louis-moving/): Move here for the free museums, the cheap brick houses and the food nobody hypes enough. Think twice if the summers, the segregation or a city and county that still can’t share a police force would wear on you. - [12 honest pros and cons of living in Tampa](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-tampa-moving/): Move here for the beaches, the no state income tax and a job market that’s actually growing. Think twice if the hurricanes, the summer humidity or the traffic on I-4 would wear on you. - [17 honest pros and cons of living in Tucson](https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-tucson-arizona-moving/): Move here for the winters, the Sonoran Desert out the back door, a food scene that earned its reputation, and housing you can still afford. Think twice if the summers, a downtown that feels rundown or the haboobs would wear on you, and don’t expect a change of seasons. - [16 honest pros and cons of living in Vancouver, Washington](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-vancouver-washington/): Move here for the outdoors, the no state income tax, and an airport you won’t complain about. Think twice if the rain, the commute into Portland or the housing market would wear on you. - [15 honest pros and cons of living in Washington DC](https://thehonestlocal.com/moving-living-washington-dc/): Move here for the free museums, the stable government jobs and the walkable Metro. Think twice if the cost of housing, the summer humidity or the traffic on the Beltway would wear on you. ## Lists: best places, neighborhoods, retirement (26) - [15 best places to live in Arizona](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-arizona-cities/): Mesa suits families wanting safety without Scottsdale prices, while Sedona fits retirees and remote workers who don’t need local jobs. Just watch the trade-off, cheaper towns here often skimp on schools or job options. - [15 best neighborhoods in Atlanta](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-neighborhoods-atlanta/): Midtown fits anyone chasing walkable city energy and career buzz, while Peachtree Hills suits retirees and families wanting a quieter, assisted-living-friendly setup. Almost every pick on this list comes with a price tag well above six figures, so budget shoppers will need to dig for the rare exception. - [10 best neighborhoods in Austin, Texas](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-neighborhoods-austin-texas/): Clarksville suits high earners who want walkable, historic charm downtown, while Scofield Farms fits families chasing good schools on a smaller budget. Either way you’re paying Austin prices, and the best schools tend to sit furthest from the nightlife. - [16 best places to live in California](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-in-california-cities/): San Francisco suits ambitious tech and career types who want the action, San Diego fits young adults craving beach life and sunshine, and Sacramento works for young families chasing lower home prices and steady government jobs. - [10 charming neighborhoods in Chicago](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-neighborhoods-chicago/): Rogers Park suits families and retirees who want lake access without the price tag, while Gold Coast fits anyone with an executive income who wants downtown at their door. The catch is these neighborhoods keep getting pricier, so waiting rarely pays off. - [10 best neighborhoods in Denver](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-neighborhoods-denver-places-to-live/): Wellshire fits retirees and settled professionals who want quiet streets and golf, while Broadway suits people chasing city life without downtown prices. The catch, the safest and best-schooled picks here cost the most, so budget before you fall for them. - [15 best places to live in Florida](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-in-florida/): Tampa and Jacksonville win for anyone chasing jobs and a livable downtown, and Naples and Sarasota suit retirees who like quiet. The walkable towns cost more, and the cheaper ones mean driving for everything. Every pick, coastal or inland, comes with hurricane season and Florida’s homeowners insurance bills. - [15 cheapest places to live in Florida](https://thehonestlocal.com/cheapest-places-to-live-florida-affordable/): Gainesville fits a first job, Bartow and Dade City fit families wanting cheap land near the big metros, and Edgewater fits retirees chasing lower costs near the coast. The catch is that Orlando and Cape Coral, the names everyone knows, cost the most on this whole list. - [15 prime places to retire in Florida](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-retire-florida/): Tampa suits retirees who want city buzz and sports on tap, and Apalachicola works for anyone happy to trade nightlife for a close-knit fishing village. Sarasota fits those chasing culture and beaches who can pay for them: it’s one of the priciest towns on this list. - [17 best places to live in Georgia](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-georgia/): Athens and Decatur suit families and first-timers who want charm without Atlanta prices, while Alpharetta fits families chasing top schools if they can afford it. The catch shows up everywhere, college crowds, tourist traffic, or suburb prices climbing toward half a million. - [10 charming neighborhoods to live in Houston](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-neighborhoods-houston/): Houston Heights suits families who want walkable streets and small-town feel, while West University Place fits people with money to spend on schools and quiet lots. Both will eat a big chunk of your paycheck. - [15 best places to live in Idaho](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-idaho-cities/): Boise suits job seekers wanting a lively downtown and strong economy, Pocatello fits folks chasing low home prices and mountain recreation, and Ketchum works for skiers who don't mind resort-town prices. - [15 best places to live in Michigan](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-live-michigan-cities/): Grand Rapids suits career climbers and families who can handle brutal winters, Traverse City fits outdoorsy types chasing lake life and wineries, and Sault Ste. Marie works for folks wanting isolation and a slower pace near the Canadian border. - [15 best places to live in Montana](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-montana-cities/): Billings suits anyone wanting a bigger city feel without big city prices, Missoula fits creatives and university folks who live for outdoor access, and Whitefish works for mid-career professionals chasing Glacier views. - [15 best places to live in North Carolina](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-north-carolina/): Charlotte and Cary work for families and job seekers who still want affordable housing, while Brevard suits retirees chasing quiet mountain towns. Asheville tempts with charm, but it’s still digging out from serious flood damage. - [15 best places to live in the Pacific Northwest](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-pacific-northwest-cities/): Boise and Spokane suit anyone priced out who still wants space and nature, while Bellevue fits families who can afford top dollar for safety and schools. The catch is those cheaper picks lack the job depth Seattle and Portland offer. - [15 best neighborhoods to live in Philadelphia](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-neighborhoods-philadelphia/): Washington Square West suits anyone chasing walkable nightlife and history, while Fairmount and Chestnut Hill fit families wanting parks and space. The catch is the prettiest, most central picks charge the most for it. - [10 best neighborhoods in San Francisco](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-neighborhoods-san-francisco/): Haight-Ashbury fits newcomers and free spirits craving character over polish, while Russian Hill suits those chasing the postcard view who can afford the climb. Either way, this city charges for its best parts, so know your budget going in. - [10 best neighborhoods in Seattle](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-neighborhoods-seattle/): Fremont suits the quirky and creative crowd, and Green Lake fits people ready to settle down near the water without much nightlife. Both come with a real catch, home prices that box out anyone starting out or working a first job. - [14 best places to live in the South](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-the-south-cities/): Greenville fits someone starting a career on a budget, Hilton Head fits retirees who don’t need a job nearby. Charm costs extra almost everywhere on this list, and a couple of these towns are already dealing with flooding or overcrowding. - [15 charming places to live in South Carolina](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-south-carolina-cities/): Charleston suits anyone chasing coastal charm and city amenities, Columbia fits budget-minded professionals and students, and Murrells Inlet works for retirees wanting quiet beach life without the crowds. - [15 best places to live in Tennessee](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-tennessee/): Nashville suits music lovers and career-driven types who don't mind a rising cost of living, Chattanooga fits outdoor enthusiasts craving affordability and fast internet, and Gatlinburg works for those chasing mountain views over peace and quiet. - [12 best places to live in Texas](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-live-texas-cities/): Houston suits budget-minded folks who want big-city amenities without big-city prices, Austin fits anyone chasing an artsy scene and friendly locals who can stomach steep home prices, and Frisco works for families after top schools with money to spend. - [15 best places to retire in Texas](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-retire-texas/): San Antonio suits retirees on a tight budget who want walkable city life, El Paso fits those chasing rock-bottom home prices despite desert heat, and Horseshoe Bay works for folks with real savings who want golf and lake living. - [15 best places to live in Virginia](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-virginia-cities/): Virginia Beach suits anyone chasing coastal life and good schools without giving up jobs, Chesapeake fits families who want safety and space over nightlife, and Roanoke works for folks craving mountain quiet and a slower pace. - [15 best places to live in Washington State](https://thehonestlocal.com/best-places-to-live-washington-state-cities/): Seattle suits arts and sports lovers who don't mind rain, Spokane fits anyone wanting lower costs with real job options, and Friday Harbor works for retirees who dream of island life. ## Head-to-head guides (2) - [20 Honest Comparisons: Portland, Oregon vs Austin, Texas](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-portland-oregon-vs-austin-texas/): Austin fits someone chasing tech jobs and nightlife who doesn’t mind sprawl and no state income tax, while Portland suits someone who wants walkable neighborhoods and easy access to mountains and coast. Both cities will wreck your budget on a home either way. - [12 Things to Know About Living in Seattle vs Portland](https://thehonestlocal.com/living-seattle-portland-moving/): Seattle suits the career-driven who want tech money and don’t mind paying for it, while Portland fits people chasing a slower pace and cheaper rent on a smaller paycheck. Both come with brutal housing costs, ugly commutes, and a homelessness crisis that’s part of daily life either way. ## Tools - [Rankings](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings): every city and state we cover, ranked on public data, each reading with its source and date - [The Living-In Map](https://thehonestlocal.com/map): one map per reading (rent, prices, jobs, crime, air, weather and more) across the cities and states we cover - [Movers' Reports](https://thehonestlocal.com/movers): weekly reports by state: the cities where rent, asking prices, home values, jobs and gas moved most, with sources - [Compare two places](https://thehonestlocal.com/compare): two US cities side by side on the same public sources, plus what locals say - [The Honest Index](https://thehonestlocal.com/honest-index): a monthly ranking of US cities and states on locals' verdicts, prices, unemployment and violent crime - [Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/cities): every city we cover, with its guide and live readings - [States](https://thehonestlocal.com/states): every state we cover, with its guide and live readings ## Rankings (56) - [Snowiest Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/snowiest) - [Youngest Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/median-age) - [Shortest Commutes by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/commute) - [Lowest Rent Burden by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/rent-burden) - [Cheapest Rent by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/rent) - [Cheapest Asking Prices by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/listing-price) - [Cities with the Fewest Rainy Days](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/rain) - [Most Affordable Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/affordability) - [Fastest-Growing Cities Since 2020](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/growth) - [Driest Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/rainfall) - [Sunniest Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/sunniest) - [Cheapest Gas by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/gas) - [Fastest Job Growth by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/job-growth) - [Rent Movers by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/rent_movers) - [Cleanest Air Right Now by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/air) - [Cities with the Cleanest Air](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/air_quality_annual) - [Home Value Movers by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/home_value_movers) - [Safest Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/crime) - [Cheapest Home Values by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/home-value) - [Cities Safest from Disasters](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/disaster_risk) - [Lowest Unemployment by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/jobs) - [Hottest Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/hottest) - [Coldest Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/coldest) - [Least Sunny Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/least-sunny) - [Least Sunny States](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/least-sunny/states) - [Cities with the Least Snow](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/least-snow) - [States with the Least Snow](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/least-snow/states) - [Cities with the Most Crime](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/most-crime) - [States with the Most Crime](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/most-crime/states) - [Cities Most Exposed to Disasters](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/most-disaster-risk) - [States Most Exposed to Disasters](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/most-disaster-risk/states) - [Least Affordable Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/least-affordable) - [Least Affordable States](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/least-affordable/states) - [Most Expensive Rent by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/most-expensive-rent) - [Priciest Asking Prices by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/priciest-asking-prices) - [Priciest Asking Prices by State](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/priciest-asking-prices/states) - [Priciest Home Values by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/priciest-home-values) - [Highest Unemployment by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/highest-unemployment) - [Highest Unemployment by State](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/highest-unemployment/states) - [Dirtiest Air Right Now by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/dirtiest-air-now) - [Priciest Gas by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/priciest-gas) - [Priciest Gas by State](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/priciest-gas/states) - [Longest Commutes by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/longest-commutes) - [Longest Commutes by State](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/longest-commutes/states) - [Highest Rent Burden by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/highest-rent-burden) - [Highest Rent Burden by State](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/highest-rent-burden/states) - [Oldest Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/oldest) - [Oldest States](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/oldest/states) - [Slowest Job Growth by City](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/slowest-job-growth) - [Slowest Job Growth by State](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/slowest-job-growth/states) - [Slowest-Growing Cities Since 2020](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/slowest-growing) - [Slowest-Growing States Since 2020](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/slowest-growing/states) - [Rainiest Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/rainiest) - [Rainiest States](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/rainiest/states) - [Wettest Cities](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/wettest) - [Wettest States](https://thehonestlocal.com/rankings/wettest/states) ## Method and standards - [How we get our numbers](https://thehonestlocal.com/how-we-get-our-numbers) - [Standards](https://thehonestlocal.com/standards) - [Who we are](https://thehonestlocal.com/who-we-are) - [Contact](https://thehonestlocal.com/contact) ## How to cite a number from here The Honest Local, , , . Every guide and tool page states its own last-updated date in its structured data; use that for .