Entertainment
Florida Shocks Everyone as 17 Cities Make Best Places to Live List Without Orlando Miami or Tampa
In a surprising twist U.S. News ranks 17 Florida cities among the top 250 places to live in 2025 and the state’s biggest names are nowhere in sight
When you think of the best places to live in Florida, names like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa usually come to mind. But in a surprising shake-up, none of these major metro areas made the cut in U.S. News & World Report’s latest Top 250 Best Places to Live in the U.S. list for 2025.
Instead, 17 other Florida cities quietly rose through the ranks—earning national recognition for affordability, quality of life, job market strength, and desirability. While the absence of Florida’s tourist hotspots might raise some eyebrows, experts say it reflects a deeper trend: more Americans are seeking livable, affordable, and community-driven cities, away from the high cost and congestion of larger metros.
Cities like Naples, Sarasota, and Port St. Lucie stood out for their balance of suburban charm, growing job opportunities, and strong healthcare infrastructure. These areas have long been retirement favorites, but are now increasingly attracting younger professionals and families looking for lower living costs and a higher quality of life.
Other standouts include Gainesville, home to the University of Florida, praised for its vibrant college-town energy and innovation hubs, and Melbourne, which continues to thrive thanks to its ties to the aerospace and tech industries.
Also on the list:
- Ocala, known for its equestrian roots and expanding medical sector
- Pensacola, with its scenic Gulf Coast beaches and military community
- Cape Coral, offering waterfront living at a fraction of Miami’s price
The rankings were based on a mix of data including affordability, net migration, desirability, and quality of life indicators such as crime rates, healthcare access, and average commute times.
Meanwhile, big-name cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, despite their popularity and cultural appeal, were likely edged out due to rising housing costs, traffic congestion, and lower affordability scores.
Analysts say the shift is a reminder that the “best place to live” is no longer solely defined by entertainment and population size—it’s now about balance, affordability, and sustainability.
So if you’re thinking of relocating within the Sunshine State—or just curious about under-the-radar Florida gems—it might be time to look beyond the theme parks and nightlife.