Top 25 Best Places To Live Out West

Colorado Springs, CO / iStock Photo/RondaKimbrow

Known for its rich heritage in pioneers and rough-and-tumble adventurers, the West is teeming with breathtaking landscapes, unparalleled beauty, and iconic bucket list destinations. It’s also home to some of the most innovative minds in the country and a remarkable number of cities that regularly top the charts on best places to live. This combination understandably makes the West an irresistible draw to people interested in everything from rustic outdoor adventures to modern convenience and amenities.

Each year, Livability puts together the Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S. The list is based on over 100 data points and examines 2,300 cities to narrow down the best places to live in America. Here, we’re highlighting the 25 best places to live out West based on our research. 

1. Broomfield, Colorado

When a city checks all of the boxes — great schools, excellent health care, abundant outdoor recreation, diverse housing options and a thriving job market — it’s no wonder that Broomfield, CO, is one of the best places to live in the West. This city of nearly 77,000 is just 30 minutes from Denver and 15 minutes from Boulder but has its own big-city amenities like major league sports teams, art museums and a spirited restaurant scene — not to mention views of the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. 

Major employers such as Ball Aerospace, Mrs. Fields Cookies and Noodles & Company contribute to the city’s strong economy, as does UCHealth Broomfield Hospital and other regional medical centers. Plus, Broomfield is known as a city that offers favorable conditions for women in the workforce. 

It’s also a great place to raise a family, with plenty of fun attractions along the U.S. 36 corridor, including Butterfly Pavilion and Water World in nearby Federal Heights. Speaking of fun things to do in Broomfield, the city has more than 700 acres of developed parks and 45 playgrounds, including a bike park, Bay Aquatic Park with slides and water activities, and a remote-controlled airfield for drones. In addition, there are 281 miles of trails and plenty of sunshine to get out and enjoy all the city offers.

2. Beaverton, Oregon

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways! The answer is so many when it comes to Beaverton, OR. The city’s commitment to protecting the environment and its sustainability efforts make Beaverton stand out as one of the best places to live out West. Surrounded by natural areas and farmland, residents can enjoy over 90 parks, 1,500 acres of natural area and more than 60 miles of paved trails. 

Located 7 miles west of downtown Portland, with terrific regional transit options, Beaverton’s citizens have access to the big city but are afforded a lower cost of living than their big-city counterparts. The community has a good balance of big companies and smaller businesses — both Nike and Tektronix are headquartered here — and a range of housing options that make it an attractive place to live. 

Furthermore, Beaverton is part of the Silicon Forest; due to the growing number of high-tech companies — 300 and counting — the city attracts people from all over. 

Beaverton also scores high when it comes to schools and health care, and residents are involved in the community, participating in a roster of fun and festive events all year long.

The city’s historic downtown area has charming local shops and nearly 60 restaurants. And because Beaverton is so ethnically diverse, those global influences come through on many of the city’s menus. A beautiful new arts center, the Patricia Reser Center for The Arts, offers visual and performing arts.

3. Meridian, Idaho

Ranked as the fastest-growing city in Idaho and one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, Meridian, ID, also earns a spot as one of the best places to live in the West. 

Situated in the Treasure Valley, Meridian, a city of nearly 130,000, is just 12 miles west of the state capital of Boise. It offers all the advantages of city life and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. The terrain in and around Meridian is diverse so that residents can ski, bike, fish, camp, boat and hike. In addition, 25 city parks, with fields, courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, splash pads and more, add to the outdoor amenities in Meridian.

Meridian was originally founded as a dairy farming community but has grown into a desirable place to live, work and play. The city has an economy that supports businesses big and small. Meridian ranked high for safety and health care options and offers a true sense of community, with all kinds of fun events throughout the year. The schools are excellent, and entertainment options run the gamut from live music venues, movie nights and art galleries to museums, delicious restaurants and great shopping at places such as The Village at Meridian.

4. Hillsboro, Oregon

Hillsboro, OR, is a place where farm life meets technology and is considered one of the best places to live in the West. Today, the city of more than 107,000 still has its share of farms and wineries, which is why protecting the environment is so important to the community. In fact, in 2010, the city partnered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to become a Green Power Community. But it’s also known as part of the Silicon Forest because of all the technology companies. Nike and Intel are the biggest in the area, but there are also health care groups, software firms, media companies and bioscience ventures that make the city a great career choice.

Kudos to Hillsboro’s focus on transportation, offering a light rail connecting to Portland and surrounding cities. The fifth-largest city in Oregon is welcoming and boasts friendly neighborhoods, cute boutiques, a vibrant arts scene that includes murals and public sculptures, a wide range of dining options and scenic spots where you can enjoy all that nature offers.

Sports fans love to cheer for the Hillsboro Hops, the city’s minor league baseball team, and visit the fascinating Rice Museum of Rocks and Minerals, which is definitely a jewel — pun intended! The performing arts are alive and well in Hillsboro, with both the Hillsboro Symphony Orchestra and the Hillsboro Artists’ Regional Theatre entertaining audiences.

5. Boise, Idaho

Boise, ID, is part refined, part rugged, and that suits residents just fine. The city of nearly 240,000 is at the junction of the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain West and is decidedly a great place to plant roots and grow a family or a business. There are numerous reasons why Boise is named one of the best places to live out West, and it’s easy to see why so many people are planting roots here.

There’s an interesting mix of manufacturing, agribusiness and tech companies, with an educated workforce to keep things thriving. Honestly, the economy is pretty much on fire, with corporate headquarters and startups making a name for themselves.

Nicknamed the “City of Trees,” Boise is committed to sustainability with a goal of being carbon neutral by 2050. And that’s due to the abundance of outdoor treasures clustered here, including mountains, rivers, hot springs and trails. The playground that is Boise also can keep you busy outdoors from sunup to sundown with golfing, fishing, snow-skiing and hiking the tree-lined paths.

Boise is a sports town, too, with residents cheering on the Boise State University Broncos and the Idaho Steelheads when they take to the field, the court or the ice. When residents are ready to fuel up, more than 100 delectable restaurants and fabulous breweries satisfy citizens and college students alike. 

Furthermore, Boise is both walkable and affordable, offering residents all of the amenities of a booming mountain town that is chock-full of charm.

6. Fort Collins, Colorado

Known for being active and adorable, Fort Collins, CO, draws visitors who want beautiful surroundings and a commitment to the environment. Plus, the city is home to highly-ranked schools and a diverse array of businesses. 

Historic Old Town Fort Collins exudes charm, which is why it was the inspiration for Disneyland’s Main Street USA. Residents love the fabulous restaurants and award-winning craft beer scene, too. New Belgium and O’Dell Brewing Co. are the headliners, while a slew of smaller breweries are also saying cheers to the successful Fort Collins industry. 

Situated in northern Colorado, Fort Collins is one of the best places to live in the West for countless other reasons. Business is booming with companies like OtterBox and Waterpik, in addition to Hewlett Packard Enterprises, Noosa Yoghurt and industry sectors that include clean energy and bioscience. In fact, Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences graduate students are employed around the world taking care of pets.

Thanks to the city’s easy access to the rugged Rocky Mountains, you can get out and enjoy every type of adventure you want, including whitewater rafting, camping, hiking, backpacking and more. Plenty of residents and students definitely take advantage of those perfect peaks. Other perks to living here? An e-bike and e-scooter share program, a thriving gallery scene, a comfortable spot for retirees and military personnel, and just an overall joie de vivre!

7. Castle Rock, Colorado

Many know Castle Rock, CO, for the interesting butte formation that is the town’s namesake, but there’s so much more that residents love. For starters, the city of 80,000 offers a mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it one of the best places to live out West. 

Located midway between Denver and Colorado Springs, Castle Rock is a community on the move with excellent schools, top-notch health care, safe neighborhoods, a quaint historic downtown full of restaurants and shops, and a caring community that likes to celebrate.

Surrounded by wide open spaces (5,800 acres) and trails (nearly 75 miles) and with more than 300 sunny days a year, people here appreciate the natural beauty and enjoy the outdoors. Phillip S. Miller Park is the epitome of ways to stay active, with lap lanes for swimming, trampolines, batting cages, splash pads and a functional fitness area for adults across its 300 acres. For those who love a great deal, you can’t beat the Outlets at Castle Rock, which draw shoppers across the region.

New residents like knowing they are in good hands at AdventHealth Castle Rock, which practices whole-person care. For those looking to advance their education, Sturm Collaboration Campus offers a way to earn an associate’s degree from Arapahoe Community College and a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University in one convenient place.

8. Elk Grove, California

Elk Grove, CA, has exploded in recent years. As a suburb of Sacramento — just 20 minutes south — this community of nearly 182,000 is one of the best places to live in the West, and that’s no surprise. Industry has discovered the advantages of calling Elk Grove home, with heavyweights like Apple and Kaiser Permanente having regional headquarters here. 

The city is also on track to be a health center, with the opening of a new full-service hospital in 2026. Dignity Health Elk Grove Hospital will be outfitted with the latest technology to care for patients. Also announced are new outpatient health care services at UC Davis as it expands with a 20-acre parcel in Elk Grove. 

The city takes that healthy initiative even one step further, committing to residents’ well-being by being a leader in sustainable building practices and environmental stewardship. In fact, in 2015, Elk Grove built the first Special Waste Collection Center in the country powered by solar energy.

Residents are active, thanks to more than 90 parks outfitted with all kinds of amenities. Elk Grove also boasts an assortment of tasty restaurants and excellent schools, attracting both young professionals and families alike.

9. Loveland, Colorado

Loveland is so quintessentially Colorado cozy that it feels like the city was plucked straight out of a Hallmark movie. As one of the best places to live in out West, this Northern Colorado city leans into its reputation as “The Sweetheart City,” and residents find that Loveland is, in fact, very easy to love. Every February, the community-wide Valentine’s celebrations are sure to warm your heart and turn even the most skeptical into a romantic. For example, the Sweetheart Festival features ice sculpting, fire dances, chocolate, a fun run and an Instagram-ready “tunnel of love.” Even more? Civic-minded residents volunteer in a mailroom each February, putting Loveland stamps on Valentine’s Day cards from around the world through a re-routing program. So cute, right?

Aside from charming celebrations, Loveland has excellent schools, top-notch hospitals and is a regional retail hub anchored by The Promenade Shops at Centerra. Those who live here have their pick of new master-planned neighborhoods, historic homes and stylish apartments close to the downtown Loveland area. And the cherry on top? Loveland has an outstanding public art program that sweetens the deal for creatives. 

Of course, part of what makes the Colorado lifestyle so coveted is getting outdoors, and there are plenty of unique places to do just that in Loveland, from sculpture parks to the marina at Boyd Lake State Park and nearby hiking trails winding up near rock outcrops at Devil’s Backbone Open Space. Loveland is also close to Estes Park, a favorite mountain town that borders Rocky Mountain National Park and lights up with autumn colors.

10. Vancouver, Washington

With an incredible location between the Cascade Mountains and the Pacific Ocean and along the shores of the Columbia River, Vancouver, WA, offers its own kind of magic. This city of nearly 200,000 residents understands the wealth of amenities at their doorstep in this Pacific Northwest community, just 20 minutes from Portland.

Vancouver, listed as one of the best places to live out West, has a happening downtown district — historic charm but completely modern — with public art, fun breweries and diverse restaurants.

As far as business goes, Vancouver and Clark County are part of the Silicon Forest, with software companies and startups that want a desirable home base. In fact, small businesses make up more than 95% of the city’s economy, with flourishing sectors such as manufacturing, health care, education and financial services. 

Back to the outdoors. The easy access to the Columbia River and the Cascade Mountains entice residents to explore their gorgeous surroundings. Or easy enough to stay closer to home and stroll around Vancouver Waterfront Park and Grant Street Pier. After a day outside, you can duck into a coffee shop or a cozy bakery or opt for a pint. Vancouver is inclusive, too, with a proud LGBTQ community and a longtime Pride celebration. And speaking of festivals, Vancouver celebrates it all, from an international food festival and the Clark County Fair to art made from recycled materials.

11. Eugene, Oregon

Consistently ranked as one of the best places to live out West, Eugene, OR, is a city that definitely deserves that recognition. The city of 180,000-plus residents has the outdoors at their fingertips, with options that include hiking, kayaking, skiing, snowboarding and biking. And Eugene residents aren’t messing around when it comes to biking; it is a way of life here because of the area’s commitment to cycling infrastructure, which includes 187 miles of on-street bike lanes and 71 miles of signed bikeways and neighborhood greenways. Plus, city buses have bike racks, and there’s even a bike-sharing system with 40 self-serve stations. Those are just a few of the ways Eugene and its sustainably-minded residents are reducing its carbon footprint. The community also gets around 80% of its power from carbon-free hydroelectric energy.

Situated on the Willamette River and on the southern side of the Willamette Valley — and less than two hours from Portland — Eugene is home to the University of Oregon, which offers lauded programs in environmental law, education, creative writing and psychology, among others. The school is also well-known for Hayward Field, the site of numerous world-class track and field events — thus Eugene’s nickname as “TrackTown USA.”

The dining scene is creative and fun, with a bevy of chefs proficient at doing farm-to-table meals long before it became a culinary staple. And if you ever have the desire to leave the city, the Oregon Coast and the Cascade Mountains are just a hop, skip and a jump away!

12. Aurora, Colorado

Aurora residents can enjoy Colorado living at its finest — and then some. Aurora is the third largest city in the state, with just under 394,000 residents, and is also one of the most diverse. In fact, Aurora ranks highly in terms of demographics as a minority-majority city, with a diverse population of Latino, African American, Asian and foreign-born residents. The city’s diversity carries through to its exceptional food scene, with restaurants representing cuisine from all over the globe — we’re talking belly-warming ramen, birria tacos dripping with consommé and crispy, golden Korean fried chicken with a sweet-and-spicy glaze. On top of all that, Chef Caroline Glover (of Annette and Traveling Mercies) is a James Beard Award winner.

As one of the best places to live out West, Aurora ranks high for its strong economy. Biotech startups, hospitals, and defense contractors provide locals with good-paying jobs. Another advantage of living in Aurora is its central location. Residents are close to Denver International Airport and can hop on I-70 to get to the mountains. But there’s plenty to enjoy close to home, too, including reservoirs, great golf courses and more than 100 parks. And, Aurora residents are known for going off the beaten path to explore, whether that’s the 103 miles of trails or the unassuming strip mall restaurants with food so good you’ll become a regular.

13. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs, CO, is a place where world-class athletes come to prepare for Olympic medals, where Army and Air Force personnel train (there are five military installations here) and where students come to study and enjoy college life. And, of course, there’s the spectacular scenery everywhere you look, which inspired Katharine Lee Bates to pen “America the Beautiful.” Colorado Springs is one of the best places to live in the West for all these reasons and more.

The summit of Pikes Peak, situated just west of Colorado Springs, looms over the city, and the whole area is surrounded by incredible places to play. Garden of the Gods, for example, has various rock formations that jut out against the city’s beautiful blue skies. Plus, there are 375 miles of trails to explore, including lovely waterfalls. 

The downtown area is full of terrific restaurants, shops and entertainment venues, and the Springs offers a lower cost of living than many other parts of the state.

This is an academic city with Colorado College, a private liberal arts school, the University of Colorado’s Colorado Springs campus and top-notch public schools. Industries such as cybersecurity, health care, advanced manufacturing, and aerospace and defense are all crucial sectors in this city of 486,000 people. Some big-name employers include Progressive Insurance, Microchip and Lockheed Martin. And the welcoming business community makes it easy for military veterans to find their niche after years of service.

14. Salt Lake City, Utah

What’s not to like about Salt Lake City, UT, situated near breathtaking mountain peaks and the Western Hemisphere’s largest salt lake? Not a thing. The city’s tremendous outdoor assets include amazing hiking, biking and skiing, for starters, not to mention trips to one of the state’s five national parks (think Zion and Bryce Canyon) or a day at one of Salt Lake City’s nearly 100 city parks. 

As the capital city and one of the best places to live out West, Salt Lake City scores points for its thriving transportation system, buzzing arts scene and an international airport to boot. Plus, any preconceived notions you might have about this metropolitan area are probably wrong! Yes, there’s a terrific beer culture here, with some award-winning breweries, as well as a progressive LGBTQ-friendly community, with a Pride week that brings some 100,000 folks to the downtown district. Furthermore, delicious dining options run the gamut, from Mediterranean fare and barbecue to Neapolitan pizzas.

Thinking about a career move? SLC has been called the “Silicon Slopes” because of its tech boom, attracting young professionals who want a slice of everything this area has to offer. Those slopes, by the way, are easily reached within 90 minutes with “The Greatest Snow on Earth,” according to those in the know. In addition, the city offers a strong community spirit, with lots of fun activities and events for all to enjoy.

15. Clovis, California

Residents in Clovis, CA, enjoy that relaxed California lifestyle. As one of the best places to live in the West, it also is a pretty great city in which to live, work and play. Clovis has a historic feel, especially in its central district fittingly called Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and notable storefronts. But this district is thoroughly modern today, with eclectic dining spots, a hopping beer scene, vibrant nightlife and fabulous shopping (don’t miss the Vintage & Antiques District). Clovis also hosts a Vintage Market three times a year with even more antiques and collectibles. 

Situated just east of Fresno in the San Joaquin Valley, Clovis also has highly rated schools and a relatively low cost of living for the Valley. The city is committed to being a sustainable place to live and practices what it preaches. In fact, it has an Urban Greening Master Plan that includes bicycle transportation, improved air and water quality, urban forest management and more. Furthermore, the city cares about the health and well-being of residents, providing an impressive number of physicians, a Level 1 trauma center hospital and easy access to nearby Fresno’s many health care facilities. Some of the city’s more prominent industries include health care and social assistance, as well as retail and education services. 

16. Nampa, Idaho

Young professionals are flocking to Nampa, ID, one of the best places to live out West, where you’ll find safe neighborhoods, a celebration of Western roots that includes a long-standing summer rodeo and spots like the Ford Idaho Horse Park, plus a vibrant downtown filled with local shops and restaurants.

The median age in Nampa is 31.9, and the Boise-Nampa metro is the third biggest in the Northwest and ranks as the eighth fastest-growing metro in the country. The city has built-in support for those who are looking to grow their careers, like the nine-month Leadership Nampa program.

Nampa residents also have access to standout community amenities, including a great library and a mobile library that operates out of a 24-foot-long Sprinter van. They also have access to a couple dozen parks, including Lakeview Park, which has BMX tracks, a 1,000-seat amphitheater, a playground, and outdoor fitness equipment.

Easy commutes, excellent schools and homes and lower rents than in neighboring Boise and other Pacific-Northwest cities all add to Nampa’s quality of life.

17. Spokane, Washington

With its location along the Spokane River and adjacent to the Selkirk Mountains, Spokane, WA, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. We’re talking mountain biking, kayaking (76 lakes within an hour’s drive!), skiing, snowboarding and other adventures. Keep in mind that Canada is less than 100 miles away, and Idaho is a hop, skip and a jump from Spokane. That natural beauty keeps the city eco-conscious and is just one of the reasons it’s one of the best places to live in the West. The outdoors extends to the nearly two dozen wineries to explore, many within walking distance of one another.

Locals are also blessed with excellent health care and education options, not to mention a low cost of living and a thriving economy. What else could you ask for, you wonder? Spokane’s economy is diverse, so much so that it is considered a central hub for the Inland Northwest, including parts of Washington, Idaho, Montana and Oregon.

The city has a penchant for volunteerism, so there are plenty of opportunities to be a part of the community, whether in your professional or personal life. 

This Pacific Northwest city offers adorable coffee shops, a creative culinary scene, breweries, wineries and tasting rooms, and some really cool mid-century architecture. 

18. Kennewick, Washington

Kennewick, WA, is one of the fastest-growing regions in the state, and it’s easy to see why. As part of the Tri-Cities, Kennewick is located on the southwest bank of the Columbia River. The city of 86,358 is a year-round recreation hub with fantastic Pacific-Northwest golf courses, a couple dozen parks, including Columbia Park, which is perched on the river, and a cute historic downtown lined with local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. 

As one of the best places to live in the West, Kennewick residents can get around the region easily thanks to Ben Franklin Transit’s bus routes connecting Southeastern Washington cities. The Tri-Cities also have a bevy of outdoor amenities, which make it easy to get out and enjoy nature — whether it’s hiking Badger Mountain or seeing the wildflowers freckle the Candy Mountain Trail. Of course, getting out on the water to paddleboard or float is a no-brainer come summer since the Tri-Cities region is located at the confluence of the Columbia, Snake and Yakima Rivers.

Kennewick also has a noteworthy wine scene with more than 200 wineries within a one-hour radius. Badger Mountain Certified Organic Vineyard is a great place to get an introduction to Washington wine; the winery has been making organic vino since 1990, long before it was trendy.

19. Missoula, Montana

Missoula, MT, welcomes residents with friendly faces, wide-open spaces and some attractive career opportunities. The city is home to the state’s flagship university, the University of Montana, which adds to Missoula’s creative vibe. That artistic spark can be seen at places like the Missoula Art Museum, the Missoula Symphony and at film festivals and independent bookstores, among other creative outlets.

As one of the best places to live out West, Missoula also beckons with a giant outdoor playground in the Northern Rockies full of wilderness areas and at the confluence of three rivers. Residents can hike, ski, float and fly-fish or create their own adventures either at home or in adjacent scenic areas. All of that natural beauty is why Missoula residents have a strong sense of environmentalism and work to protect their awesome surroundings.

The city’s stable economy consists of a growing biosciences sector supported by the Montana Bioscience Cluster Initiative, various technology jobs, and activity in health care, education and retail. Yet, despite the advanced jobs, Missoula maintains a small-town feel with a population of close to 78,000. It’s a great place to grow a business and a family with a quality of life that’s hard to beat.

20. Tacoma, Washington

Urban sophistication comes to mind when you talk about Tacoma, WA, ranked as one of the best places to live out West. As the state’s second-largest city, Tacoma is located on Puget Sound (Seattle is just across the Sound) and surrounded by the Pacific Northwest’s magnificent natural beauty. That grandeur affords opportunities to explore the outdoors, with activities like fishing, biking, hiking, golfing, swimming and boating. There are also more than 80 parks and recreational areas, which include more than 8 miles of beaches and shoreline. All of that splendor means Tacoma residents are passionate about the environment and minimizing their impact on these important ecosystems. That idea trickles down to providing green transportation, affordable housing and more.

Indoor pursuits include museums like the well-known Museum of Glass, where you can see artists in action and take in the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, the famous pedestrian walkway by famed glass artist and Tacoma native Dale Chihuly. The Tacoma Art Museum and America’s Car Museum are two of Tacoma’s other cultural offerings. 

The metro’s public schools definitely make the grade. For those looking for higher education options, there’s the University of Washington Tacoma and liberal arts schools such as Pacific Lutheran University and the University of Puget Sound. Plus, the city has an array of incredible restaurants, fun shops and live music venues that attract students and residents alike. 

Finally, Tacoma’s stable economy makes it a no-brainer as a place to put down roots, with diverse industries such as health care, logistics, aerospace and technology.

21. Reno, Nevada

As “The Biggest Little City in the World” and one of the best places to live in the West, Reno, NV, is hard to beat when it comes to quality of life and a scenic place to call home. Located less than an hour away from Lake Tahoe and situated near the Nevada-California border means residents can craft a day trip or weekend away with ease.

But there’s plenty to do in your own backyard in Reno, including unmatched outdoor recreation, a buzzing riverwalk district, casinos (of course), crazy good public art (even retired Burning Man sculptures!), phenomenal restaurants and a solid craft beer scene, which is why the city of nearly 277,000 appeals to families, entrepreneurs and retirees. You can stretch your dollar further in Reno, too, while enjoying all of the fun amenities, many of which are free. 

Distinct neighborhoods, including the Arch District, Riverwalk and Midtown areas, offer perfect places to plant yourself with beautiful views for miles no matter where you live.

Artsy at its core, Reno entertains residents with attractions like the Nevada Museum of Art, the Discovery Science Museum and the Artown festival, which is held annually in July. Yes, gaming is big here, but so are industries like advanced manufacturing and geothermal firms, not to mention a robust robotics education curriculum available for Reno’s K-12 students.

22. Billings, Montana

Billings, MT, is a natural beauty. The city’s downtown is nestled in a valley surrounded by sandstone cliffs, where residents are treated to stunning views of the snow-capped Beartooth Mountains and plenty of green spaces, like parks along the legendary Yellowstone River. 

Home to 120,692 residents, Billings is the second-largest city in Montana and one of the best places to live out West. Plus, this Montana city has everything you could possibly want in terms of quality of life, including outdoorsy adventures, Western museums, a resilient economy and a low cost of living. It’s also home to Montana State University’s Billings campus. 

Located in the south-central section of the state, the city is home to more than 50 parks and is also a day trip away from some famous sites, like Yellowstone National Park. 

The city is experiencing steady growth thanks to its laid-back, small-town attitude, advanced healthcare services and resilient economy. Plus, you can actually enjoy your free time in Billings since your money stretches further, and you won’t be stuck in traffic jams — the average commute time is just 19 minutes. One more thing: Billings has an impressive selection of beer on tap. Discover your favorite watering hole on the Billings Brew Trail that connects nine breweries, a cider mill and three distilleries — many of which are located on a 1.5-mile loop through the historic downtown.

23. Medford, Oregon

With home prices under $400,000 (median prices hover around $382,000!) and significant regional employers like Harry & David and Asante Health System, Medford, OR is an ideal spot for young professionals, growing families, retirees and everyone in between. Lake lovers should also set their sights on Medford. This Pacific Northwest paradise is one of the best places to live out West and is located on the front porch of Crater Lake National Park. The namesake lake is best described with a slew of superlatives — it’s one of the world’s clearest, bluest and deepest lakes. Snag a national park pass to photograph the wildflowers, drive the scenic rim and hike the Cleetwood Cove Trail for a refreshing swim in Crater Lake.

The famed national park aside, Medford locals have all sorts of ways to stay active, from national park adventures to hiking the Table Rocks and rafting the Rogue River. The region is also a bustling hub for arts and culture, including the Tony Award-winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival and the Britt Music and Art Festival. 

The Rogue Valley also has many family-friendly amenities, including sports leagues for all ages, 2,500 acres of parks, fun events and festivals and excellent schools. Add in great farmers markets, local wine and cheese, craft beer, lavender fields and some rumored Bigfoot sightings, and you’ve got a small sampling of the many reasons why people love Medford.

24. Murrieta, California

No matter your speed, you’ll find unlimited fun in Murrieta, CA, and its surroundings. Adrenaline junkies can take laps at Cahuilla Creek Motocross Park or water ski at nearby freshwater lakes. At the same time, those looking for a more peaceful Saturday itinerary can hike Tenaja Falls Trail to a waterfall or hit the links at Bear Creek Golf Club, which is nestled in the foothills below the Santa Rosa Plateau. 

A fast-growing, mid-sized city conveniently located between San Diego and Los Angeles, Murrieta is one of the best places to live in the West, with safe neighborhoods and plenty of room to roam. The city has 52 parks plus 1,350 acres of open space and trails, as well as a vibrant downtown area with shops and restaurants. The area is known for its affordable cost of living and has become one of the state’s fastest-growing communities in the past several decades, thanks to its proximity to other major cities. 

In addition, Murrieta’s Mediterranean-like climate makes spending time in the great outdoors a year-round affair, and there are a couple dozen wineries and breweries to kick back and relax at.

25. Salem, Oregon

Residents in Salem, OR, can enjoy a perfect balance of big-city amenities and tight-knit communities. Part of the Portland metro area, located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Salem is both the capital of Oregon and a city with a treasure trove of things to do.

Neighbors come together for gatherings like the annual World Beat Festival, which celebrates more than 70 nations and cultures through music, dance and food. Friends can catch up at any number of local breweries, cideries and famed Willamette Valley wineries.

Getting around town (and the state) is accessible, too. In fact, multi-modal transportation options are among the reasons why Salem is one of the best places to live in the West. The city’s Cherriots public transportation system is moving closer to a goal of an all-electric fleet by 2040. Plus, with miles of trails and the Winter-Maple Neighborhood Greenway that connects Salem Parkway to downtown, Salem is a place that prioritizes being bikeable and walkable. On top of all that, Amtrak Cascades makes daily round trips to Eugene, Portland, Seattle and other destinations, so you can leave your car parked at home.

Residents also have plenty of fun ways to spend their downtime, from sampling the local culinary scene from food trucks at Beehive Station to catching a comedy show or concert at the historic Elsinore Theatre, which opened in the 1920s as a silent movie house and vaudeville theater.

The area’s rich farmland is ripe with vegetables, orchards and vineyards, which translates to fresh fare in area restaurants and farmers markets. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, too. Salem is home to numerous parks, and its location along the Willamette River means there are plenty of water activities to participate in, too. 

Best Places to Live in the West Map