If big-city living isn’t your thing but a more rural lifestyle doesn’t sound attractive either, you may be interested in HGTV’s list of the best mid-sized cities in the United States.
One Florida city, Tampa, came in at No. 1 on the list, with another in the top 10 at No. 3 and a third squeaking into the top 20.
HGTV described mid-sized cities as those with a population between 100,000 and 500,000. Citing the U.S. Census Bureau and think tank Milken Institute, HGTV said “newcomers are flocking to these cities.”
Here are HGTV’s 20 “favorite mid-size cities on the upswing that are worthy of your attention.”
Tampa, Florida, comes in as No. 1 on HGTV list of top 20 mid-sized cities in US
A view of downtown Tampa, Florida, as seen from the bridge to Harbour Island is seen in this picture taken August 3, 2012.
The top-ranked mid-sized city in the U.S. on HGTV’s list was Tampaon Florida’s west coast. Here’s what HGTV had to say about Tampa:
“Tampa has a population of nearly 400,000 and it’s showing no signs of slowing down, continuing to attract visitors with easy access to theme parks, major league sports teams, contemporary museums and, of course, white sandy beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
“Visitors flock to Tampa for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and the Tampa Museum of Artas well as the 2.6-mile Tampa Riverwalk that meanders alongside Hillsborough River.”
Gobankingrates.com on singles living in Tampa:
-
Salary needed to live comfortably: $92,708
-
Median household income: $71,302
-
Average monthly cost of living: $3,863
Port St. Lucie, Florida, listed No. 3 in US in HGTV list of top 20 mid-sized cities
Separated from Tampa only by Henderson, Nevada, Port St. Lucie on Florida’s east coast, was ranked No. 3 by HGTV. Here’s what was said:
“Port St. Luciea town of more than 200,000 residents, jumped in population size by 5% in one year. Of course, Clover Park is a fan favorite. It’s the spring training home for the New York Mets. Not a baseball fan? Not a problem. There are plenty of outdoor draws for nature enthusiasts, like Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens and Savannas Preserve State Parkwhich is a go-to for kayaking, biking and birdwatching. For beach access, head to Jensen Beach for quiet stretches of coastline and fantastic fishing.”
HGTV lists 3 Florida among top 20 mid-sized cities
Three Florida cities made HGTV’s list for the best 20 mid-sized cities in the United States, with two appearing in the top 10:
-
Colorado Springs, Colorado
-
Tallahassee, Florida
-
Tallahassee is growing, moving up in the ranks as a top mid-size city, appealing for a feel that is both urban and suburban. The state capital wows with its historic downtown, public art works and a vibrant nightlife scene, as well as public parks and green spaces
-
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: HGTV lists Tampa as No. 1 mid-sized city in US
