You may wonder what are the best cities to raise a family in the US. At RealEstateAgent.com, we are constantly looking for them, since families keep real estate agents busy. As newlyweds, they might be looking for starter homes. As the family grows, they look for the most family friendly cities where they can purchase a larger home. And as they grow old together, some may consider downsizing while others may start looking into real estate investing. Whether it is in the northernmost areas of New England, or the southernmost areas of Florida, you will be able to find indoor and outdoor activities for both the adventure and relaxation seekers of the family. Yet there are several cities in the country that seem to be the perfect fit for families of all ages, sizes, and interests.
If you are considering relocation to begin settling down into one of the most family friendly cities, take a closer look at the following cities:
Orlando – 24-7 entertainment for the whole family
Orlando, Florida real estate – Orlando is known as one of the most tourist-filled areas because of its popular attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios. Although the area may seem like it can get too crowded because of its close proximity to major tourist destinations, Orlando still harbors smaller family friendly communities. These communities are the perfect location for families as they are also next to exceptional schools, beautiful parks at Lake Eola, and a lively downtown. This allows for families to be only a short drive away from popular amusement parks and activities that cater to families.
When it comes to real estate, homes start at $88,000, but the cheapest ones sell fast and are usually preferred by house flippers. The best neighborhoods for families are Oviedo, Winter Park, Lake Nona, and Longwood. A decent home in Oviedo – 3 bed 2 bath – is priced at around $229,000 and is move-in ready. In Lake Nona, similar houses start at $234,900.
Atlanta – raise your family under the beautiful tree canopy
Atlanta, Georgia – The city of Atlanta is beautifully diverse in its attractions throughout the community. There is virtually everything to do for families with children of any age. Atlanta offers attractive tourist destinations downtown that include the Coca Cola Factory, the CNN Center, and the Georgia Aquarium. Throughout the entire city, there are several famous southern-inspired eateries, like Gladys Knight’s Chicken & Waffles and Pittypat’s Porch, that can satisfy any palate. Atlanta is an ideal community for families not only for its attractions but also its real estate. The city is known for having a wide range of home styles from high-rises in the city to spacious ranch-style homes and mansions in the suburbs.
House flippers, as well as low-income families, can find great properties at $65,000 but most of them require a lot of work. The best neighborhoods for families are Buckhead, Candler Park, Druid Hills, and Inman Park. The prices seem to match the zip codes by adding two more zeros at the end. So, in the Avondale Estate neighborhood (zip code 30002) – another great area for families – 3 bed 2 bath houses start at $289,900. In Druid Hills – zip code 30307 – you may find something similar for $330,000. So, housing in Atlanta is about 30% more expensive than in Orlando, Florida.
San Diego – America’s finest city is family friendly
San Diego, California real estate – On the west coast of America, there is sunny San Diego. It is known for its perfect weather and laid back beach-town atmosphere. The city is close to the bustling city of Los Angeles but still far enough to maintain tranquility, making it perfect for people who are looking to settle down. San Diego is famous for the San Diego Zoo that attracts thousands of families that are interested in its beautiful wildlife. The city is also well-known for its food trucks that can be found selling almost any kind of food imaginable. San Diego offers the perfect balance of city life with family living.
Three neighborhoods propel San Diego among the most family friendly cities – La Jolla, University City, and Carmel Mountain. With many houses situated on cul-de-sacs, Carmel Mountain is a close-knitted community where neighbors become friends. You won’t find many properties for sale here under $600,000. Properties in La Jolla, CA are even more expensive, starting at about $1 million. In the University City, homes are more affordable. For example, a 3 bed 3.5 bath house on Grand Del Mare Place featuring a home theater and a home gym is listed for only $400,000.
Colorado Springs – a magnet for Millennial parents
Millennials make up 26.4 percent of its population and their share is growing at a fast pace, according to a 2018 Brookings report. Colorado Springs, Colorado – Colorado Springs is a calm city that is nestled between mountains. The city has outdoor activities for any time of year. Whether it is snowboarding and skiing in the winter or white water rafting and kayaking in spring season, Colorado Springs offers exciting and adventurous activities. The area is perfect for families that enjoy nature and the comfort of a smaller city. Real estate in Colorado Springs ranges from cozy townhomes to multi-million dollar mansions with mountain view.
What neighborhoods make Colorado Springs one of the most family friendly cities? The Broadmoor – an old neighborhood inhabited by doctors, lawyers and real estate developers – features affordable homes at $229,000, while in Rockrimmon, which is part of the Air Academy School District, single family homes start at $320,000. Another great neighborhood for families is Briargate. Many residents have embraced a military career and the neighborhood is also in the Air Academy School District. Besides, it also has great mountain view properties that start at $300,000 for 4 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms.
Houston – the Space City has room for families, too
Houston, Texas real estate – Texas is a state well-known to deliver on its motto “bigger is better”. The real estate in Houston is no exception. The communities in the area are filled with homes built for even the largest of families and land that offers acres of space. Houston is also home to several museums and the Space Center which makes it perfect for sightseeing. The city is situated right next to Galveston Bay which leads inward to the Buffalo Bayou that runs right through Houston. This creates the perfect trail for joggers and bikers to enjoy through the city.
The Memorial neighborhood in Houston is an idyllic place to live in. Here, lots are larger and wooded, schools are some of the best in Texas, and houses are quite affordable, starting at $269,000. There are different types of homes available on the market – from townhomes to ranch-style homes to grand estates. The Kingwood area is also great for families. The cheapest properties in the area may have flood damage and are priced around $100,000, while a 3 bed 2 bath house in good condition is for sale for $160,000. Braeswood is another high-end neighborhood featuring single-family homes at $629,000. What makes Houston one of the most family friendly cities? Its huge school district – the 7th in the country by size – which also has some of the best-rated schools: Frostwood Elementary School, Eastwood Academy, Memorial Middle School and many more.
Boston – where everything is within walking distance
Boston, Massachusetts – Arguably one of the most historic cities in America, This is another perfect location for family friendly activities. Here you will find many historic landmarks like Paul Revere’s House located on the historic Freedom Trail. With Boston being one of the oldest cities in America, there are tons of historic and educational tours throughout the city. Boston is also situated next to the scenic Boston Harbor. Living in Boston, there will be no shortage of activities from this city given that it is also very culturally diverse. Not to mention the fact that the city is quite compact and very walkable.
Neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and Back Bay make Boston one of the best cities to raise a family in the US. The former has up-scale properties that cost millions of dollars. For example, a beautiful house in the Greek revival style, 5-stories high, is on the market for $8.4 million. In the latter, the cheapest condo suitable for a growing family is listed for $1.6 million and has 1,500 square feet. Boston Latin School is one of the best schools. Nearby studios start at $475,000, but anything bigger is way over $1 million and in most cases, these properties can only be purchased with a jumbo mortgage.
Phoenix – families are at the core of Arizona’s Urban Heart
Phoenix, Arizona real estate – Phoenix is a city known for its desert area. The city offers gorgeous botanical gardens and parks that showcase the beautiful scenery that this city has to offer. For this reason, Phoenix is known for its laid back atmosphere and its lavish luxury spas that allow guests to be closer to nature while relaxing. The city offers communities that are perfect for family living whether they are located close to the city center or on the outskirts of the city near the neighboring city of Scottsdale.
Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) has some of the best schools in Arizona. That’s why both Phoenix and Scottsdale must be included among the most family friendly cities. The largest school in Scottsdale is Notre Dame Preparatory School, with roughly 900 students. Over 200 properties are on the market around this school so families have plenty of options. Condos start at $225,000, while houses are priced from $324,900 upwards.
High-income families also have plenty of private schools to choose from as well as two real estate schools. Students who don’t want to get into student debt and want to pursue higher education without attending a college have the option of becoming real estate agents in Scottsdale. Those interested in pursuing vocational education can get their diploma in culinary arts from the Arizona Culinary School. Also, wannabe florists should consider the workshops organized by the Flower Bar in Scottsdale or attend several courses (for about $1,800) to become Professional Florists through the Arizona State Florists Association.
Seattle – The Emerald City values family life
Seattle, Washington real estate – Located in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is known to have an often rainy climate. This makes the area beautifully scenic with its forests that complement its majestic mountains and volcano, Mount St. Helen, in the distance. Seattle is home to several tourist attractions that include Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. The city offers the ideal community for nature-lovers, especially those who enjoy activities on the water.
But Seattle also has quiet and quaint neighborhoods that make it one of the most family friendly cities. For example, Windermere and Madrona are two of them. The cheapest listing we could find in Windermere was a 2 bed 1 bath house priced at $500,000. Less than 100 properties are on the market in the neighborhood of Madrona. Prices range between $315,000 for a 485 sq. ft. condo and $6.1 million for a waterfront property with a private cellar, home theater room, and outdoor BBQ built on a 0.29-acre lot.
Need help exploring other family friendly cities? Take the time to explore our agent’s listings and don’t hesitate to contact them!
