Best Places to Raise a Family in the Midwestern United States
The Midwest is in the central, eastern portion of the Unites States. There are plenty of things to do for people of all ages. There are many who choose to call these areas home because of the vast selection of affordable living and abundance of jobs. If you are looking for a great place to put down roots, consider the following areas.
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is by far one of the greatest areas of the Mid West. More than 475,378 people call this area home. It is the 36th largest state in the country, but it also has all the conveniences of an urban lifestyle. There are numerous neighborhoods that drip with old-world charm. You can easily find tree-lined streets, yards that have undergone generous landscaping, and plenty of green places to enjoy nature. The educational system in this area is among the top. When it comes to college, there is the University of Missouri and Rock Hurst University, just to name a few. If you love barbeque ribs and other treats, this is the barbecue capital of the world. The people are friendly, and it will take you no time to feel right at home.
Columbus, Ohio
With more than 850,106 people that call this area home, Columbus, Ohio, is the 15th largest city in the country. Located in the center of Ohio, “The Heart of It All,” this thriving metropolis has so much to offer. There are numerous suburbs that provide all different types of lifestyles. Those who enjoy architecture can choose to live in the German Village area. Enjoying old restaurants like Schmidt’s is a favorite. Up and coming professionals may choose to live in Easton or Polaris. There is numerous city-run parks that offer plenty of green space. If you crave water and swimming sports, check out the Hoover Dam or Alum Creek Reservoir.
Even though this area is mostly urban city areas, those who want to enjoy some serenity of nature in a more rural setting can choose a suburb like Grove City or Groveport. Here, they will find plenty of areas to spread out. As far as universities are concerned, Ohio State University is among the top in the country. Other colleges include Columbus State and Franklin University. The children will enjoy sites like The Columbus Zoo and Cosi. Finding a good place to eat is not a problem. From Indian to Chinese and everything in between, Columbus hosts some good restaurants.
St. Louis, Missouri
Located in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, St. Louis is one of the most exciting cities in this region. More than 315,685 call this area home. It is the 19th largest city in this country. Not only do they have the famous arch to view, but they are gifted with a broad range of recreational activities to enjoy. This cultural area is almost always ranked among the best and most affordable places to live in this country. They have some of the best zoos and city parks around.
Children love visiting the St. Louis City Museum, which offers free admission and more activities than you could fit into one day. When it comes to college, students will have 12 to choose from. There are world renowned medical centers, and restaurants made to impress. Who wouldn’t want to live in St. Louis?
Chicago, Illinois
Whether you want the big town vibe or small town feel, you can find something around Chicago to suit your fancy. More than 2.7 million people call this area home, which makes it the second most populated city in the country. However, the greater Chicago area, as a whole, has 10 million residents. Don’t let all the people scare you off, there are areas where you can spread out and have room to breathe. In fact, Mount Prospect, IL was voted the best place to raise kids in the country. It is just a short 23-miles to Chicago. When it comes to colleges, there are more than 20 to choose from. Those who consider themselves to be a history buff and a die-hard foodie will find there is no better place to be.
Enjoy sites like The Navy Pier, visit the Museum of Science and Industry, and visit the waterfront to enjoy some fishing and great views. This area beacons to Jazz and Blues fans, so the music scene is always hopping. Any and every kind of food imaginable is found here, but you must try a Chicago style deep dish pizza. Often called the “Windy City,” this area has plenty of great weather and four distinct seasons.
The Midwest Is The Place To Be
No matter where you choose to live, as long as you settle down in or around these great areas, you will find life can be amazing. You will always be close to jobs, great food, and plenty of entertainment.