12 Most Desirable Cities in the Midwest to Move to in 2025

I never thought I’d be writing about moving to the Midwest, but this region completely won me over. After road tripping through America’s heartland last summer, I discovered these cities aren’t just about cornfields and football—they’re bursting with culture, incredible food scenes, and the kind of friendly communities that make you want to stay forever.

Take Minneapolis, where I spent a week exploring the amazing lakes and brewery scene, or Madison, Wisconsin, where the downtown feels like a perfect mix of college town energy and professional opportunity. These experiences showed me why the best places in the Midwest are drawing people from the coasts. If you’re ready to trade overpriced rent for actual space and authentic community, here are 12 cities that might surprise you as much as they surprised me.

Most Desirable Places to Live in the Midwest in 2025

Looking for the best places to live in the Midwest in 2025? Experience the urban energy of Chicago, enjoy the college-town charm of Ann Arbor, settle in Cincinnati for its affordability and vibrant neighborhoods, or choose Columbus, a growing tech hub with a strong economy. Whether you prefer big-city life or a thriving mid-sized community, these are some of the top places to live in the Midwest.

• Best for academic environment: Ann Arbor
• Best for vibrant city life: Chicago
• Best for historic charm: Cincinnati
• Best for urban convenience: Columbus
• Best for affordable living: Des Moines
• Best for career opportunities: Indianapolis
• Best for community spirit: Lincoln
• Best for natural beauty: Madison
• Best for arts and festivals: Milwaukee
• Best for cultural richness: Minneapolis
• Best for family-friendly living: Naperville
• Best for economic growth: Omaha

1. Ann Arbor, MI

Ann Arbor isn’t just a college town—it’s a thriving hub of innovation, culture, and community. Home to the University of Michigan, the city pulses with intellectual energy, drawing students, professionals, and families alike. Strolling through downtown Ann Arbor, you’ll find a mix of independent bookstores, art galleries, and a diverse culinary scene, from cozy cafés to international cuisine.

Great for those who love the outdoors, the Huron River and Nichols Arboretum offer scenic trails and kayaking spots, while year-round festivals—like the Ann Arbor Art Fair—bring the community together. The city’s strong job market, particularly in tech and healthcare, makes it one of the best places to live in the Midwest. With top-rated schools, walkable neighborhoods, and a progressive, welcoming atmosphere, Ann Arbor offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities.

• Read Next: Places to Live in Michigan

2. Chicago, IL

With its iconic skyline, deep-rooted culture, and unbeatable food scene, Chicago is the Midwest’s urban powerhouse. Whether you’re catching a show at the Chicago Theatre, walking the scenic Lakefront Trail, or dining on deep-dish pizza, life here is never dull.

Each neighborhood has its own flavor—Lincoln Park offers green spaces and family-friendly vibes, while Wicker Park attracts creatives and entrepreneurs. The city’s robust economy spans finance, tech, and healthcare, making it a top choice for career growth. Sports lovers can cheer for the Bulls, Bears, Cubs, or White Sox, and music fans can dive into Chicago’s legendary blues and jazz scene.

Despite being a big city, Chicago retains its Midwestern friendliness. With its world-class museums, diverse food options, and endless entertainment, it’s easy to see why Chicago remains one of the best places to live in the Midwest.

• Read Next: Best Places to Live in Illinois

3. Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati blends historic charm with a modern, revitalized downtown. The city sits on the banks of the Ohio River, offering stunning views, scenic walking trails, and lively waterfront events. Neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine (OTR) showcase Cincinnati’s artistic and culinary renaissance, with restored 19th-century buildings housing trendy bars, restaurants, and craft breweries.

Cincy’s sports scene is just as exciting, with dedicated Bengals and Reds fans bringing energy to game days. The city is also rich in history, home to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and a thriving arts community with institutions like the Cincinnati Art Museum.

With a lower cost of living than many major metros, plus excellent schools and job opportunities in healthcare, finance, and tech, Cincinnati is an underrated gem in the Midwest that offers both affordability and excitement.

4. Columbus, OH

Columbus is a city on the rise, with a booming job market, top universities, and a vibrant cultural scene. As home to Ohio State University, the city buzzes with youthful energy, but it’s much more than a college town.

The Short North Arts District is packed with galleries, trendy restaurants, and nightlife, while the Scioto Mile offers scenic parks and waterfront trails. Columbus is also an emerging tech and startup hub, making it one of the best cities in the Midwest for career opportunities.

With affordable housing, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community, Columbus is an ideal place for young professionals and families. Whether you’re cheering on the Buckeyes, exploring local markets, or enjoying craft beer at one of the city’s many breweries, Columbus delivers a dynamic yet welcoming lifestyle.

• Read Next: Best Places to Live in Ohio

5. Des Moines, IA

Affordable, family-friendly, and full of opportunity, Des Moines is one of the best-kept secrets of the Midwest. This capital city has evolved into a vibrant cultural and economic hub, known for its growing job market, welcoming community, and low cost of living.

Downtown Des Moines is alive with art, live music, and the Historic East Village’s independent shops and eateries. The Des Moines Art Festival and the famous Iowa State Fair bring residents together, celebrating the city’s creative and agricultural roots. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Gray’s Lake Park or take advantage of the city’s extensive biking trails.

With a strong economy in finance, insurance, and healthcare, plus highly rated schools, Des Moines offers an unbeatable quality of life. If you’re looking for a place that combines career growth, affordability, and Midwestern hospitality, Des Moines is hard to beat.

6. Indianapolis, IN

Indianapolis blends the energy of a major city with the charm of the Midwest. It’s home to the Indianapolis 500, but there’s so much more to discover beyond the famous speedway. The city boasts a thriving downtown, with the Indianapolis Cultural Trail connecting parks, restaurants, and entertainment districts.

Indy’s food scene is booming, with farm-to-table dining and craft breweries gaining national recognition. The city is also a sports mecca, home to the Colts (NFL) and Pacers (NBA), plus one of the largest children’s museums in the world.

Affordable living, a booming job market in healthcare and tech, and family-friendly neighborhoods make Indianapolis a great place to put down roots. Whether you’re catching a game, biking along the Monon Trail, or exploring the city’s arts and culture scene, Indy offers a high quality of life with a strong sense of community.

• Read Next: Best Places to Live in Indiana

7. Lincoln, NE

A city that balances small-town warmth with big-city amenities, Lincoln is one of the Midwest’s most underrated gems. As the capital of Nebraska, it offers a low cost of living, strong job market, and a tight-knit community that makes it an ideal place for families and young professionals.

Downtown Lincoln is lively, with the Historic Haymarket District featuring brick streets lined with restaurants, breweries, and boutiques. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln brings an energetic college-town vibe, while the city’s extensive parks and trails—like Wilderness Park—offer different kinds of outdoor adventures.

Lincoln also boasts a growing tech and healthcare sector, making it a rising star for job seekers and entrepreneurs. With its safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a welcoming atmosphere, Lincoln proves that you don’t need a big city to have a high quality of life.

8. Madison, WI

Madison is where nature, education, and culture come together to create one of the best places to live in the Midwest. Home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the city thrives on innovation and energy while maintaining a strong sense of community.

Surrounded by Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, Madison offers endless opportunities for boating, biking, and hiking. The Capitol Square Farmers’ Market, one of the largest in the country, is a weekend staple, while State Street’s lively mix of cafés, bookstores, and live music venues keeps the city buzzing.

Madison’s commitment to sustainability, bike-friendly streets, and top-rated schools make it a standout choice for families and young professionals. Whether you’re kayaking on the lakes, exploring the city’s craft beer scene, or cheering for the Badgers, Madison is a Midwestern treasure that’s hard to beat.

• Read Next: Best Places to Live in Wisconsin

9. Milwaukee, WI

A city with rich history, lakefront beauty, and a thriving arts scene, Milwaukee is one of the coolest places to live in the Midwest. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers an unbeatable mix of urban excitement and waterfront relaxation.

The Historic Third Ward is a hub for foodies, featuring top-notch restaurants, markets, and breweries. Milwaukee’s Summerfest, the world’s largest music festival, keeps the city’s cultural calendar packed, while the Milwaukee Art Museum’s stunning architecture and collection impress art lovers. Sports fans can also cheer on the Milwaukee Bucks or catch a Brewers game at American Family Field.

With affordable housing, a strong job market, and a community that embraces its industrial roots while moving forward with innovation, Milwaukee is a hidden gem. If you love city life with a side of Midwestern hospitality, Milwaukee is the place to be.

10. Minneapolis, MN

One of the most vibrant and livable cities in the Midwest, Minneapolis is a perfect blend of nature and urban sophistication. With over 13 lakes, miles of biking trails, and the scenic Mississippi River, it’s a paradise for outdoor lovers.

Culturally, the city shines with institutions like the Walker Art Center, the Guthrie Theater, and a legendary music scene that produced Prince. The North Loop is a hot spot for trendy restaurants, breweries, and loft-style living, while neighborhoods like Linden Hills offer a quieter, family-friendly atmosphere.

Minneapolis has a strong economy, particularly in finance, healthcare, and tech, making it a great place for job seekers. Whether you’re exploring the Chain of Lakes, catching a Vikings or Timberwolves game, or enjoying the city’s craft beer boom, Minneapolis delivers a high quality of life in every season.

• Read Next: Best Places to Live in Minnesota

11. Naperville, IL

A suburb with the heart of a city, Naperville consistently ranks among the best places to live in the Midwest—and for good reason. With top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and a thriving downtown, it’s a dream for families looking for a balance between urban amenities and suburban tranquility.

The Naperville Riverwalk is the city’s crown jewel, offering scenic trails along the DuPage River. The historic downtown is packed with boutiques, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while the city’s excellent public schools and low crime rates make it a top choice for raising a family.

Naperville also boasts a strong job market, with easy access to Chicago’s business hubs while maintaining a lower cost of living. Whether you’re exploring Centennial Beach in the summer or enjoying a cozy café in the winter, Naperville is one of Illinois’ most desirable places to call home.

12. Omaha, NE

Omaha blends big-city opportunities with Midwestern hospitality, making it an attractive place to call home. Located along the Missouri River, this thriving city is known for its affordable cost of living, strong job market, and vibrant cultural scene. The Old Market District is a centerpiece, featuring cobblestone streets lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and top-rated restaurants.

Omaha is home to the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, one of the best in the world, and an impressive performing arts scene, with venues like the Orpheum Theater and Holland Center hosting year-round entertainment. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Fontenelle Forest or enjoy scenic riverfront trails.

With a booming economy, particularly in finance and tech, and a tight-knit community feel, this city offers a balance of career growth and quality of life. Whether you’re raising a family or building your career, Omaha provides an affordable, dynamic, and welcoming environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Places to Live in the Midwest

Want to delve deeper into understanding the top living destinations in the Midwest? Let’s address some frequently asked questions about the best places to settle in this vibrant region.

Where is the best place in the Midwest to live?

Determining the best place to live in the Midwest depends on personal preferences and lifestyle choices. For those seeking a vibrant, cultural city with a mix of urban and natural beauty, Chicago and Minneapolis stand out. They offer bustling city life with the comfort of Midwestern charm. If you prefer a smaller, community-focused city with a strong academic presence, Ann Arbor and Madison are excellent choices. For a balance of career opportunities and family-friendly living, cities like Des Moines and Omaha are ideal. Each of these cities offers a unique living experience, blending community, culture, and convenience in their own distinct way.

Where is the most affordable place to live in the Midwest?

Among the Midwest’s various cities, Des Moines stands out for its affordability. It offers a lower cost of living compared to other metropolitan areas, without sacrificing quality of life. Housing costs in Des Moines are significantly lower than the national average. This makes it a great option for families and young professionals. Additionally, cities like Lincoln and Omaha are also known for their affordable living, providing a balanced lifestyle with reasonable housing and living expenses. These cities demonstrate that living in the Midwest can be both economically viable and enriching.

Which Midwest city should I move to?

Choosing a Midwest city to move to depends on your priorities:

• For Career Opportunities: Chicago, with its diverse economy, is ideal for those seeking professional growth in various industries.
• Family-Friendly Living: Omaha and Naperville are excellent for families, offering great schools, safety, and community-oriented environments.
• Cultural Richness: Minneapolis and Milwaukee provide vibrant arts scenes, rich history, and diverse cultural experiences.
• Academic Environment: Ann Arbor and Madison, with their prestigious universities, are perfect for those seeking an intellectual and youthful vibe.
• Affordable Living: Des Moines and Lincoln offer a lower cost of living with a high quality of life.

Consider what aspects of city life are most important to you, and choose the city that aligns best with your lifestyle and goals.

Where do most people live in the Midwest?

In the Midwest, most people live in major urban centers due to the combination of job opportunities, cultural amenities, and educational institutions. Cities like Chicago, with its vast metropolitan area, hold the highest population. Other significant urban centers include Minneapolis, known for its thriving arts scene and business opportunities, and Indianapolis, celebrated for its sports culture and growing economy. These cities, along with others like Milwaukee and Columbus, attract a diverse population seeking a balance of career, education, and lifestyle. Smaller cities and suburban areas also contribute to the population spread, offering quieter, community-focused living.

What is the wealthiest town in the Midwest?

Naperville, Illinois, often ranks among the wealthiest towns in the Midwest. Known for its high standard of living, excellent schools, and low crime rates, it’s a highly sought-after suburb of Chicago. Naperville boasts a strong local economy, upscale housing, and a vibrant downtown area filled with shopping and dining options. The town’s affluence is also reflected in its well-maintained public spaces, extensive parks, and community facilities. This makes it not only wealthy in economic terms but also in quality of life.

Why do people like living in the Midwest?

• Affordability: The Midwest is known for its cost-effective living, with affordable housing and lower overall living expenses compared to coastal regions.
• Community Feel: Midwestern towns and cities often boast strong community ties, fostering a sense of belonging and neighborliness.
• Natural Beauty: The region is home to picturesque landscapes, including Great Lakes, rolling plains, and scenic forests, offering numerous outdoor activities.
• Cultural Richness: Cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and Milwaukee offer diverse cultural experiences, from museums and theaters to music and food festivals.
• Quality Education: With numerous top-rated universities and schools, the Midwest is ideal for educational opportunities.
• Economic Opportunities: Cities like Chicago and Indianapolis provide robust job markets in various industries.
• Seasonal Changes: The Midwest experiences all four seasons, appealing to those who enjoy a variety of weather patterns and seasonal activities.

These factors contribute to a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle, making the Midwest an attractive place to live.    

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Live in the Midwest

The Midwest, a region characterized by its warm hospitality and diverse offerings, presents a wide array of living options to suit various lifestyles. From the bustling streets of Chicago and Minneapolis to the tranquil charm of Des Moines and Naperville, the Midwest has something special for everyone.

For those seeking affordability without compromising on quality, cities like Omaha and Lincoln stand as testaments to the Midwest’s cost-effective living. They highlight that the region offers an affordable lifestyle with ample amenities. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a vibrant urban experience, cities like Chicago and Milwaukee provide a rich tapestry of cultural, educational, and professional opportunities.

Happiness and quality of life are key in the Midwest, with places like Ann Arbor and Madison frequently noted for their harmonious blend of community spirit and natural beauty.

So, where to live in the Midwest? The answer varies as widely as the region itself. Whether you’re drawn to the Midwest for its career prospects, cultural diversity, or picturesque settings, one thing is clear: the Midwest is more than just a geographic location—it’s a way of life, offering a unique blend of comfort, community, and opportunity.