If you’re contemplating a move to a new city, perhaps one with a more laid-back atmosphere and a stronger connection to the great outdoors, Opendoor’s annual list of family-friendly cities for 2023 has you covered. This list highlights 15 communities across the United States that are perfect for families looking to embrace a simpler lifestyle and create lasting connections.
Top City
This year’s top city, Somerville, boasts exciting playgrounds and scenic outdoor areas. Berkeley, the second-place city, offers an astonishing 48 parks. Garden Grove, situated just outside Anaheim, provides easy access to Disneyland. Returning cities Denver and Portland are home to over 300 parks, ensuring plenty of outdoor fun. The list also includes names such as Bellaire, Ann Arbor, Avondale Estates, Valley Stream, Coral Gables etc.
Prioritizing Health and Quality Time
The latest finding in Opendoor’s survey indicates that families consider their health and the quality of time they have with each other most important when deciding on their ideal living environment. 51% of the people who were interviewed claimed that access to outdoor activities was their primary consideration.
According to the American Academy of Pediatricians, going outside does not only mean fun — it also plays an important role in developing a healthy lifestyle, including improving your physical and mental health.
Meet the 2023 Family-Friendly Cities
Opendoor utilized geotags related to family-friendly amenities like kindergartens, playgrounds, schools, parks, and museums on OpenStreetMap to curate this list.
The 2023 Family-Friendly Cities list includes both newcomers and returning favorites, and it was a first-timer that took the number one spot in this year’s study.
Choosing Your Ideal Home Base
Selecting the perfect city for your family is a highly personal decision. To make this significant transition smoother, Opendoor broker Jennifer Patchen suggests creating a list of your family’s priorities.
Highlight the “non-negotiables” and use them as a starting point for your search. Once you’ve identified your essential features, narrow your search to areas that offer your “nice-to-have” amenities.
Connecting With Like-Minded Families
Finding the right city for your family is an exciting adventure. These 15 family-friendly cities are excellent starting points for your research. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor activities, vibrant parks, or a strong sense of community, these cities offer the potential for a fulfilling and family-focused lifestyle.
However, to truly immerse yourself in your new community, Patchen recommends understanding your family’s wants and needs before embarking on your search. Join local networking groups or organizations related to your hobbies. For example, if your family loves the outdoors, seek out hiking groups. Connecting with like-minded individuals will make your transition smoother and more enjoyable.