Greenville has made history by securing the No. 4 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s annual Best Places to Live ranking for the first time. This is a significant improvement from last year, where Greenville was ranked at No. 31. To be featured on U.S. News & World Report’s list, a place must offer good value, be a desirable place to live, have a strong job market, and provide a high quality of life.
In the publication’s 2024 list, Greenville is ranked behind Naples, Florida, Boise, Idaho, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. No other city in South Carolina has made it to the Top 10, with Charleston coming in at No. 13 this year. U.S. News & World Report has adjusted its scoring weights to place stronger emphasis on a city’s value and job market this year, which could possibly explain Greenville’s significant jump in the rankings.
According to Erika Giovanetti, a loans expert and reporter at U.S. News & World Report, concerns regarding career prospects, housing affordability, and the increased cost of goods and services are reflected in this year’s rankings. While quality of life remains a top priority for many Americans, the value and job market of a city are becoming increasingly important factors for those seeking a new place to live
