S
uburbs are stepping into the spotlight, eclipsing many major metros in the latest “best places to live” lists. Family‑friendly communities are attracting residents with affordable homes, low unemployment, and a high quality of life.

    Johns Creek, Georgia, has topped the charts again. Located 25 miles from downtown Atlanta, the town earned the 2025 “best place to live” title from Architectural Digest, following US News & World Report. Its appeal lies in a robust job market, low crime, and a mild climate. The magazine also highlighted cultural amenities, pushing Johns Creek into the top five despite its higher price point.

    Carmel, Indiana, and Pearland, Texas, secured silver and bronze spots. Carmel, a suburb of Indianapolis, is famed for its 150 roundabouts, excellent schools, and low crime rate. Architectural Digest praised Pearland for its 2024 Cultural Arts Master Plan, which aims to boost cultural events in the Houston suburb. A 2,500‑sq‑ft home in Pearland sells for about $370,000, offering a rare blend of space and affordability. The median home price in July was $377,000, well below the national median of $443,019. Buyers often find four‑bed, 2,000‑sq‑ft homes, reflecting Texas’s penchant for larger properties.

    The remaining top five spots went to pricier enclaves: Bethesda, Maryland, and Farmington Hills, Michigan. Bethesda’s upscale suburban lifestyle comes with a median household income exceeding $100,000 and high graduation rates, though housing remains expensive. The town hosts the National Philharmonic Orchestra, adding cultural prestige. Farmington Hills earned praise for its public art and strong safety record, making it a desirable suburb outside Detroit.

    Honorable mentions highlighted Midwest and Western gems, including Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Boise, Idaho, underscoring the growing appeal of suburban living across the country.