Find the perfect apartment in one of the most family-friendly cities in the country.
From the snow-capped peaks of Boulder to the sun-kissed shores of Pembroke Pines, our great nation is adorned with a myriad of gorgeous cities, each one a gem in its own right. This abundance of options can make it difficult to decide on the perfect place to settle down with your family.
To help you navigate these murky waters, we’re taking you on a cross-country journey to explore 10 of the top cities in the U.S. for families. From respected schools to unique community events, tranquil parks to high-tech hubs, you and your family will find what you’re looking for below.
Boulder, Colorado
Nestled against the majestic Flatirons and bathed in more than 300 days of sunshine on average each year, Boulder indeed lives up to its sterling reputation as an idyllic, family-friendly urban utopia. Boulder’s wholesome allure is amplified by its thriving and inclusive community, bolstered by top-notch public schools like Fairview High, rated one of the best in the state.
At the heart of the city is the historic Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian hub humming with an eclectic mix of boutique stores, enticing eateries and community events that offer a fun, relaxed backdrop for quality family bonding. Simultaneously, the city’s ardent commitment to preserving its natural heritage, manifested in the Boulder Creek Path’s fairytale-esque stretches and the numerous well-manicured parks sprinkled throughout the city, has created an outdoor playground that encourages active, healthy living.
Uniquely, Boulder’s atmosphere is brimming with intellectual curiosity. Home to the world-class University of Colorado Boulder, the campus routinely offers family-oriented educational events and activities that promise to ignite young minds. From weekend farmers markets to the annual Boulder International Film Festival, the city vibrates with a cultural dynamism that nurtures a love for arts and culture.
Additionally, its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and an array of open-space lands offers families an easy escape to nature’s lap. In Boulder, families don’t just live, they thrive, cultivating deep connections with their community, their environment and each other. This sense of community makes it a veritable sanctuary for those seeking the perfect blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure.
Washington, D.C.
Straddling the line between historical grandeur and progressive modernity, Washington, D.C. is an electrifying playground for families seeking an enriching, cosmopolitan lifestyle. The city’s landscape, punctuated by iconic monuments and museums, provides an immersive history lesson right at your doorstep. The Smithsonian Institution alone boasts a staggering 19 museums, galleries and a zoo—all free of charge—making family outings both educational and economically sensible.
Washington’s family-friendly dining scene, from the bustling Union Market to the diverse culinary array of Barracks Row, is a gastronomical journey around the world, perfect for expanding young palates and fostering a love of global cuisine.
Complementing its rich historical and cultural tapestry, Washington is a surprisingly green city with open spaces like Rock Creek Park offering a slice of wilderness amidst the urban sprawl. The vibrant neighborhoods—think Capitol Hill’s storybook rows of colorful townhouses, the artistic allure of Adams Morgan, or the waterfront charm of Georgetown—offer varied residential experiences that cater to a range of family needs and lifestyles.
The unique synthesis of political buzz, historical depth and nearby natural beauty make Washington a captivating city for families of all stages to explore, learn and grow together.
Riverside, California
In the golden heart of the Inland Empire, Riverside is a delightful mix of suburban tranquility, cultural richness and nature’s abundance. Basking in the year-round Southern Californian sun, Riverside lures families in with a plethora of recreational amenities, notably the lush, sprawling Fairmount Park and the refreshing Lake Evans, where paddling enthusiasts come to play.
But this isn’t just about outdoorsy pleasure; Riverside serves up a hearty helping of culture as well. From the breathtaking Spanish mission-style architecture of the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa to the interactive exhibits at the Riverside Art Museum to the riveting performances at the Fox Performing Arts Center, there’s always something fascinating to capture young imaginations and nurture their curiosity.
Yet, what sets Riverside apart most is its community-centric atmosphere, characterized by top-notch educational institutions and family-friendly events. The University of California, Riverside, is a source of intellectual vibrancy and contributes to cutting-edge research while offering educational opportunities that attract families with higher learning ambitions.
Riverside’s community spirit is on full display during its annual Festival of Lights, an enchanting holiday event that transforms downtown Riverside into a luminescent wonderland, creating priceless memories for kids and adults alike. Add to this a gamut of well-curated libraries, low crime rates and a strong job market, courtesy of a diverse economy and you have a city that doesn’t merely welcome families, but earnestly fosters their growth and happiness.
San Jose, California
Nestled in Silicon Valley’s technological heartbeat, San Jose weaves a narrative of family life that beautifully harmonizes innovation, cultural diversity and outdoor allure. As the birthplace of modern technology, this city isn’t just a powerhouse of high-tech and innovation but an environment rich in educational opportunities as well. The Tech Interactive Museum provides an engaging, hands-on exploration of science and technology that will thrill young inquisitive minds and spark a strong passion for all things STEM.
The city’s commitment to education extends further with its highly-rated schools, like Lynbrook High and William C. Overfelt High, promising a nurturing learning environment for the next generation of leaders, thinkers and innovators.
But San Jose’s charm doesn’t stop at being a tech utopia — it’s also a vibrant display of culture and natural beauty. Families are spoiled for choice with attractions like the Children’s Discovery Museum and the Happy Hollow Park & Zoo offering endless fun for kids, while parents appreciate the diverse culinary landscape representing the city’s multicultural ethos. Alum Rock Park, with over 740 acres of natural, rugged beauty, offers hiking, biking and picnicking opportunities while serving as the perfect family escape from the digital dazzle.
Topping it off, San Jose’s community safety is prioritized, boasting one of the lowest crime rates among major American cities, and its flourishing economy ensures robust job prospects. Altogether, San Jose proves itself as a city thoughtfully designed for families who crave an inspired, enriched and safe existence.
Berkeley, California
Berkeley is a wonderland for families, known for its lush landscapes and vibrant cultural scene. This progressive enclave nestled in the East Bay region of San Francisco presents an environment where children can blossom, thanks to an assortment of highly regarded public and private schools emphasizing innovation and emotional intelligence. Add in UC Berkeley’s presence, with the cutting-edge research, public lectures and engaging events, and you have an educational scene that’s truly hard to match.
The city’s parks, including the adventurous Tilden Regional Park, offer a buffet of nature’s delights, encouraging young minds to explore the outdoors. Not to mention, Berkeley Marina’s breathtaking view of the bay would spark anyone’s sense of wonder.
Berkeley’s dynamism extends well beyond education and nature. The city’s rich history of activism invites families to engage in community-oriented activities that promote empathy, civic engagement and diversity from an early age.
Then there’s the Gourmet Ghetto, a food lover’s paradise, where families can embark on a worldwide culinary journey without leaving the city. Finally, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Freight and Salvage Coffeehouse and tons of festivals offer a smorgasbord of entertainment, ensuring that the arts play a starring role in every family’s life. In Berkeley, every day truly is a new opportunity for families to learn, explore, eat and celebrate life together.
Orlando, Florida
Where imagination comes alive and sunshine is aplenty, Orlando is a trove of enchantment for families. With the legendary Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort as its crown jewels, Orlando transforms the stuff of childhood dreams into a daily reality, turning roller coaster rides and encounters with beloved characters into a regular occurrence.
The fun doesn’t stop at theme parks, either. The Orlando Science Center and the Florida Everglades ensure that the city’s love for learning and nature runs as deep as its love for Mickey Mouse. Orlando’s balmy climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, so whether it’s a splash in one of the many water parks or a picnic in Lake Eola Park, sunshine-soaked memories are always on the menu.
While Orlando has an established reputation as a fantasyland, it also attends to the practical aspects of family living. It’s a city with a bustling economy, diverse job market and booming real estate, providing stability for families looking to lay down strong roots the Sunshine State. Educational prospects are robust, with a range of public and private schools, as well as colleges and universities like the University of Central Florida.
Let’s not forget about the vibrant food scene, where families can enjoy everything from a hearty Southern barbecue to the distinct flavors of Florida’s Cuban cuisine. Life in Orlando is like a perpetual vacation with a comforting dash of home, where families create magical moments while building a solid future.
Tallahassee, Florida
Tallahassee has just the right blend of Southern charm, lively culture and urban buzz that make it a fantastic haven for families of all backgrounds. Surrounded by natural beauty with its rolling hills, pristine lakes and expansive parks like the Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park, Tallahassee ensures plenty of adventure for families with outdoor inclinations.
Youths are not left out either, thanks to renowned educational institutions and the thriving intellectuality that Florida State University and Florida A&M bring to the city. At the Challenger Learning Center, kids can simulate space missions and immerse in an IMAX 3D experience, encouraging the spark of curiosity and fostering a love for STEM fields.
The city’s deep-seated history is reflected in every corner, from the historic Mission San Luis to the Museum of Florida History, providing children with hands-on lessons of the past. Community events like the North Florida Fair and the Springtime Tallahassee Festival offer wholesome family fun while fostering community spirit. With a food scene that’s as rich and varied as its culture, you’ll find your family bonding over mouth-watering Southern barbecues or exotic international cuisine.
Safe neighborhoods, friendly faces, a cost of living lower than the national average and an environment that champions family values, Tallahassee beckons with open arms to families seeking to root themselves in a place that feels like home from day one.
Bellingham, Washington
Nestled between the shimmering Puget Sound and the snow-capped peaks of Mount Baker, Bellingham serves up a splendid recipe for family life that’s brimming with the taste of Pacific Northwest adventure and community spirit. Bellingham provides families with a substantial selection of recreational activities — it’s a wonderland for hiking, biking and boating, whether it’s around Lake Whatcom or on the trails of the nearby North Cascades National Park.
The city’s geographical prowess doesn’t just stop with natural beauty; it also enjoys a prime location, being just a short hop away from the bustling cityscape of Seattle and the vibrant culture of Vancouver. But who needs big cities when Bellingham’s own historic Fairhaven District is full of unique boutiques, bookshops and eateries that can provide countless afternoons of family exploration?
Education and enrichment for the little ones loom large in Bellingham. Home to a variety of excellent schools and Western Washington University, the city is known for its commitment to sustainability and academic excellence. The SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention electrifies young minds with interactive exhibits, while the Whatcom Museum offers a more comprehensive educational experience. The city’s calendar is always peppered with family-friendly events, from the annual Ski to Sea race to summer concerts in Elizabeth Park.
Bellingham’s strong sense of community, combined with its safety and the warmth of its people, makes it a place where families really tend to thrive. So, if your family values fresh air and top-notch education in a tight-knit community, then Bellingham just might be your next chapter.
Jackson, Mississippi
Imbued with charm and history, Jackson is an unmissable destination for families, making it a living, breathing testament to a vibrant blend of culture and education. Jackson’s never-ending calendar of family-friendly activities ensures that the city pulses with life and excitement all throughout the year.
From an expedition through the natural landscapes of LeFleur’s Bluff State Park to an interactive lesson at the Mississippi Children’s Museum, the ‘City with Soul’ is adept at keeping minds of all stages engaged. Further, the Russell C Davis Planetarium unveils a cosmic odyssey right in the heart of the city, offering astronomical insights that will leave your entire family starstruck.
But it’s not just the attractions that make Jackson family-friendly—it’s the supportive, community atmosphere that truly sets it apart. The city embodies a small-town spirit within its urban expanse, fostering a sense of connectedness that is hard to come by in most cities. Its diverse neighborhoods, like Fondren with its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, provide a warm, welcoming environment for families. The outstanding school system focuses on academic excellence and community involvement, preparing children of all interests for a bright future.
Whether you’re exploring the annual Farish Street Heritage Festival or simply enjoying a meal in one of Jackson’s legendary soul food restaurants, you’re not just experiencing a place—you’re becoming part of a vibrant, enduring community.
Pembroke Pines, Florida
Wrapped in the warmth of the Sunshine State, Pembroke Pines is an idyllic setting for families looking for a slice of tranquility intertwined with excitement. The city is the embodiment of natural splendor, housing a variety of parks, like the C.B. Smith Park, where families can revel in water park adventures, fishing and golfing while basking in the Florida sun. Its proximity to the Everglades ensures an abundance of eco-adventures, creating an outdoor classroom for children to learn about biodiversity in their everyday lives.
Heart-pumping thrills are never out of reach with attractions like the Paradise Cove Water Park and Monster Mini Golf providing the opportunity for a fun-filled day for everyone. Amidst these stellar recreational spots, Pembroke Pines also stands as a beacon of education and creativity with institutions like the Young At Art Museum and the Pembroke Pines Charter School system, recognized statewide for its educational excellence.
Pembroke Pines fosters a sense of community that’s as warm as its weather. The city consistently ranks among the best cities in Florida for families largely due to its neighborhood harmony and safety. With a diverse cultural fabric and countless community events, like the annual Pines Day celebration, the city simply exudes a sense of unity and camaraderie.
Pembroke Pines’ location in South Florida offers easy access to major cities and attractions, but with all that Pembroke Pines offers, families might find themselves choosing the local charm over the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s here, in Pembroke Pines, where families can truly taste the sun-kissed Floridian lifestyle in a nurturing environment.
Find the best city for your family
Each of the cities featured above offers an exciting fusion of history, culture, education and community that makes them ideal places for families to settle and grow together. Whether it’s Boulder’s verdant foothills, Washington D.C.’s historic heartbeat, Riverside’s sunny charm, San Jose’s tech-savvy atmosphere, Berkeley’s intellectual haven, Orlando’s never-ending adventures, Tallahassee’s southern hospitality, Bellingham’s coastal serenity, Jackson’s soulful rhythm or Pembroke Pines’ tropical tranquility, each of these cities have their unique flair and familial considerations. Find your favorite spot, pick out an apartment and fill out your application today.
