U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, has named Charlotte one of the 2023-2024 Best Places to Live. Charlotte ranked eighth, soaring into the top 10 from its spot at No. 30 last year.
U.S. News analyzed the 150 most populous metro areas to find the best places to live. To make the top of the list, a place had to score well in four areas of measurement: value, desirability, job market, and quality of life.
U.S. News touted Charlotte’s strong economic identity, consistent population growth, rapid development, and diverse neighborhoods. Its geographical location, generally temperate weather, relative affordability, professional sports and cultural scene all helped the city’s performance in “desirability” and “quality of life.”
“We’re thrilled to be recognized as a great place to live,” Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles said. “The word is out that Charlotte is a great place for both businesses and families, with economic opportunity for everyone. Thank you to all our residents who contribute to making our city truly special. We will continue our work in making Charlotte an even better place to call home.”
The four measures factored into this year’s ranking were weighted in part based on a public survey of thousands of individuals throughout the U.S. to find out what qualities they consider important in a place to live. The methodology also factors in data from the National Weather Service, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), U.S. Census Bureau, the FBI, Sharecare, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. News rankings of the Best High Schools and Best Hospitals.
“Choosing a new place to live is a big decision and there are many factors to consider during the decision-making process,” Devon Thorsby, real estate editor at U.S. News, said. “The Best Places to Live rankings highlight the metro areas that most closely meet the wants and needs of people considering where to settle down next.”
