These Are the 10 Best Places to Live in the Western U.S. in 2026-and This Colorado City Is No. 1

"Recently, Livability released its ranking of the top 25 best places to live out West for 2026, as part of its larger Top 100 Best Places to Live in America ranking, which evaluates over 2,000 cities across the country. The final list is a data-driven ranking "using dozens of data points to pinpoint the absolute best communities for residents," according to the report."

"In the West, Broomfield, Colorado, took the No. 1 spot. Located just 18 miles north of Denver, Broomfield has it all: top-rated school and healthcare systems, a wealth of outdoor recreation, and a thriving job market. (A separate Livability study also found it's an especially great place for women in the workforce.) In addition to being close to the state's capital, Broomfield is home to art museums and a vibrant restaurant scene."

"The city, which has a population of around 77,000 residents, also hosts more than 700 acres of parks and green spaces, including a water park and a drone airfield. There are two major attractions right up the highway-Butterfly Pavilion and Water World-giving families with young children even more options for fun weekend activities. Additionally, there are nearly 130 hiking trails in the area, totaling over 890 miles."

Livability produced a data-driven ranking of the top 25 places to live in the West for 2026 as part of its Top 100 evaluation of over 2,000 cities. Broomfield, Colorado earned the No. 1 position based on top-rated schools and healthcare, abundant outdoor recreation, a thriving job market, cultural institutions, and proximity to Denver. The city of about 77,000 residents offers over 700 acres of parks, a water park, a drone airfield, and nearly 130 hiking trails totaling over 890 miles. Average home value is $614,614 and cost of living is about 18 percent above the national average, while utilities are roughly 13 percent cheaper. Colorado placed four communities in the Western top 10.

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