Texas Dominates List of 15 Best Big US Cities to Live In

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According to a new ranking from US News & World Report, Texas cities dominated the list of the 15 best big cities to live in across the United States. The publication evaluated 859 cities and defined big cities as those with a population of 500,000 or more, considering factors like quality of life, value, desirability, job market, and net migration. Texas claimed six of the top 15 spots, with El Paso, Austin, and Fort Worth landing in the top five.

Why it matters

This ranking highlights the growing appeal of Texas cities, which have seen an influx of new residents in recent years drawn to factors like affordability, job opportunities, and quality of life. As more people migrate away from high-cost coastal cities, the data shows Texas emerging as an attractive destination for those seeking a big-city lifestyle at a lower cost of living.

The details

The top 15 best big cities to live in according to US News & World Report are: 1. Johns Creek, Georgia, 2. Carmel, Indiana, 3. El Paso, Texas, 4. Austin, Texas, 5. Fort Worth, Texas, 6. Colorado Springs, Colorado, 7. Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, 8. Seattle, Washington, 9. Fayetteville, Arkansas, 10. San Jose, California, 11. San Antonio, Texas, 12. Charlotte, North Carolina, 13. Nashville, Tennessee, 14. Washington, D.C., 15. Dallas, Texas.

• The rankings were published on April 4, 2026.