Top 100 Best Cities to Raise a Family in the West - 2023
Relocating to a new part of the country can be an intimidating task, especially if you’re moving your entire family. As the country is adjusting to a “new normal” after pandemic shut-downs and restrictions and more of the population shifts to a remote-work lifestyle, many are rethinking where they live and want to find the best city for raising their kids.
The Western United States in many ways is synonymous with freedom - known for its beautiful landscapes, laid-back vibes, and wide-open spaces, the West is a land full of adventure. According to the 2019 U.S. Census report, America’s West Coast and adjacent states accounted for slightly less than 24% of the nation's population, the second highest of all regions. Covering Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, the West is home to more than 78 million people.
If outdoor living, beautiful landscapes, and laid-back vibes are your style, this list of Top 100 Best Places to Raise a Family in the West will help you determine where you may want to relocate to.
Dwellics analyzed data on more than 15,000 cities in the Western U.S. to compile a list of the Top 100; Best Places to Raise a Family in the West. Ranking factors included quality of education; climate comfort (days between 50 and 90 degrees), infrastructure (public transportation, traffic, internet speeds), public safety (natural disaster risks); finances (child-care costs, property prices, and cost of living); percentage of married households with school-aged children; and education level of residents.
Each listing also includes community demographics like population size, age, racial and religious diversity, political affiliation, and industry and employment data that indicates the types of jobs available in each individual area. Dwellics also posts reviews of each city submitted by users who provide pros and cons of living in each place in their own words
For even more detailed analysis, use our Calculators to directly compare two cities side by side.
List of the Best Locations
Granite Bay, CA is a beautiful and serene community located in Placer County. It is a good place to live for those who enjoy a peaceful and quiet lifestyle. The area is known for its natural beauty, with many parks and trails for residents to explore. The community is also home to several top-rated schools, making it an ideal location for families with children. Living in Granite Bay offers residents a high quality of life. The area is known for its low crime rate and friendly community. The town has a small-town feel, with local shops and restaurants that give it a unique charm. The community is also conveniently located near major cities like Sacramento and Roseville, making it easy to access all the amenities of a larger city while still enjoying the benefits of a small town. Overall, Granite Bay is a great place to call home. With its natural beauty, friendly community, and top-rated schools, it is an ideal location for families and individuals looking for a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle. Whether you enjoy hiking, shopping, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Granite Bay has something to offer everyone.
Higher educated people
High proficiency in Reading and Language Arts at High schools
Sunny
Folsom, CA is a good place to live for those who enjoy a mix of suburban and rural living. Located in Sacramento County, Folsom offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. The city is also home to Folsom Lake, which is a popular spot for boating and swimming during the summer months. Living in Folsom also means being close to a variety of shopping and dining options. The city has a historic downtown area with a variety of restaurants and shops, as well as a large outlet mall. Folsom is also home to several highly-rated schools, making it a great place for families with children. Overall, Folsom, CA is a great place to live for those who want to enjoy the outdoors while still having access to modern amenities. With its beautiful scenery, variety of activities, and excellent schools, it's no wonder why so many people choose to call Folsom home.
Religion diversity
Higher educated people
Sunny
Tassajara, CA is a small town located in Contra Costa County, California. It is a good place to live for those who are looking for a peaceful and quiet environment. The town is surrounded by beautiful hills and valleys, which makes it a perfect place for nature lovers. The town is also known for its excellent schools, making it an ideal place for families with children. Living in Tassajara, CA offers a unique experience for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town has a small population, which means that residents can enjoy a close-knit community. The town also has a rich history, which is reflected in its architecture and landmarks. The town is also home to several parks and recreational areas, which offer residents a chance to enjoy the outdoors. Overall, Tassajara, CA is a good place to live for those who are looking for a peaceful and quiet environment. The town offers a unique experience for those who want to escape the city life and enjoy a close-knit community. With its beautiful surroundings, excellent schools, and rich history, Tassajara, CA is a great place to call home.
High Math proficiency at High schools
High proficiency in Reading and Language Arts at High schools
Sunny
El Dorado Hills, CA is a beautiful and vibrant community located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is a good place to live for those who enjoy a peaceful and serene environment, while still being close to the amenities of a larger city. The town is known for its excellent schools, low crime rate, and high quality of life. Living in El Dorado Hills offers residents a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and boating. The town is surrounded by several lakes and reservoirs, making it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Additionally, the area is home to several golf courses and parks, providing ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Overall, El Dorado Hills is a great place to call home for those who value a strong sense of community, natural beauty, and a high quality of life. With its excellent schools, low crime rate, and abundance of outdoor activities, it is no wonder that so many people choose to make this town their permanent residence.
Higher educated people
High proficiency in Reading and Language Arts at Middle schools
Sunny
Vail, AZ is a good place to live for those who enjoy a small town feel with easy access to big city amenities. Located just southeast of Tucson, Vail offers a peaceful and scenic environment with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The town is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is home to several parks and hiking trails, making it a great place for nature lovers. Living in Vail also means being part of a tight-knit community that values education and family. The town is served by the Vail School District, which is known for its high academic standards and innovative programs. Families with children can take advantage of the district's excellent schools, while adults can participate in various community events and activities. Overall, Vail is a great place to call home for those who value a strong sense of community and a high quality of life.
High Math proficiency at Elementary schools
Comfortable humidity (<60%)
Sunny
Catalina Foothills, AZ is a good place to live for those who enjoy a mix of city and nature. Located in the Santa Catalina Mountains, residents can enjoy hiking and outdoor activities while still being close to the city of Tucson. The area is known for its beautiful homes and upscale neighborhoods, making it a desirable location for families and retirees alike. Living in Catalina Foothills offers a high quality of life with access to top-rated schools, shopping, and dining options. The area is also home to several golf courses and resorts, making it a popular destination for tourists. With a mild climate and stunning views of the mountains, Catalina Foothills is a great place to call home for those who value a balance of outdoor recreation and city amenities. Overall, Catalina Foothills, AZ is a great place to live for those seeking a high standard of living in a beautiful location. With its proximity to Tucson and the Santa Catalina Mountains, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly community or a retirement destination, Catalina Foothills has something to offer for everyone.
Higher educated people
Comfortable humidity (<60%)
Sunny
Stevenson Ranch, CA is a good place to live for those who are looking for a peaceful and family-friendly community. Located in the Santa Clarita Valley, this neighborhood offers a suburban feel with a mix of residential and commercial areas. The community is known for its well-maintained parks, hiking trails, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts. Living in Stevenson Ranch means having access to excellent schools, shopping centers, and restaurants. The community is home to several top-rated schools, including Stevenson Ranch Elementary School and Pico Canyon Elementary School. The area also boasts a variety of shopping options, from small boutiques to large retail stores. Residents can enjoy a diverse range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, offering something for everyone's taste buds. Overall, Stevenson Ranch is a great place to live for those who value a safe and peaceful community with plenty of amenities. The neighborhood's proximity to Los Angeles and other major cities makes it an ideal location for those who want to enjoy the benefits of suburban living while still being close to urban areas. With its beautiful scenery, excellent schools, and convenient location, Stevenson Ranch is a top choice for families and individuals looking for a high quality of life.
High proficiency in Reading and Language Arts at Elementary schools
High proficiency in Reading and Language Arts at High schools
Sunny
Oak Park, CA is a beautiful and serene community located in Ventura County. It is a good place to live for those who are looking for a peaceful and quiet environment. The community is surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views, making it an ideal place for nature lovers. The area is also known for its excellent schools, making it a great place for families with children. Living in Oak Park, CA offers residents a high quality of life. The community is safe and has a low crime rate, making it a great place to raise a family. The area is also home to a variety of recreational activities, including hiking trails, parks, and sports fields. Additionally, the community is close to major cities like Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, making it easy to access all the amenities and attractions those cities have to offer. Overall, Oak Park, CA is a great place to live for those who are looking for a peaceful and safe community with access to nature and recreational activities. The area is also known for its excellent schools, making it a great place for families with children. With its proximity to major cities, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds – a quiet and serene community with easy access to all the amenities and attractions of nearby cities.
Higher educated people
Comfortable humidity (<60%)
Sunny
Valencia, CA is a good place to live for those who enjoy a suburban lifestyle with easy access to big city amenities. Located in Los Angeles County, Valencia is a master-planned community that offers a variety of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments and townhouses. The community is known for its well-maintained parks, excellent schools, and family-friendly atmosphere. Living in Valencia means enjoying a high quality of life with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The community is home to several parks and green spaces, including the popular Valencia Heritage Park and the Santa Clara River Trail. Residents can also take advantage of the nearby Angeles National Forest, which offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Valencia is also home to several shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it easy to find something to do no matter what your interests are.
Higher educated people
Comfortable humidity (<60%)
Sunny
Chandler, AZ is a good place to live for those who are looking for a city that offers a mix of urban and suburban living. Located in the Phoenix metropolitan area, Chandler is known for its vibrant downtown area, excellent schools, and diverse community. The city has a population of over 260,000 people and is home to a variety of businesses, including Intel, which has a large campus in the area. Living in Chandler means enjoying a warm climate year-round, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing. The city has over 60 parks and recreational areas, including the popular Veterans Oasis Park, which features a nature center and hiking trails. Chandler also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with events such as the Chandler International Film Festival and the Chandler Jazz Festival. Overall, Chandler, AZ is a great place to call home for those who are looking for a city that offers a high quality of life, excellent amenities, and a strong sense of community. Whether you are a young professional, a family with children, or a retiree, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and welcoming city.
Political view diversity
Comfortable humidity (<60%)
Sunny
Compare places side by side.
Compare side by side:
Compare side by side:
Choose which calculator you want to use:
Compare cities
Compare climate
Compare schools
Compare cost of living
Find a location with better living conditions for your family.
another city:
Find a location with better living conditions for your family.
Discover The Best Cities To Relocate To In 2023
Discover The Best Cities To Relocate To In 2023
Looking To Relocate?
Use one of Dwellics Calculators below to compare big and small cities, villages, towns and neighborhoods across the US