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Nestled in a valley in the Green Mountains, the charming town of Northfield has plenty to offer residents, including stores, restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. Those who enjoy outdoor adventures can spend their free time hiking, biking, and fishing at the Northfield Town Forest in the spring, summer, and fall, and skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in the winter. Plus, there are job opportunities at Norwich University, the town’s largest employer.

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Quaint and picturesque, Waterbury, which is just 10 miles from the ski resort town of Stowe, has spectacular views of mountain peaks and rolling hills. It’s a vibrant town, filled with shops, breweries, and restaurants for farm-to-table dining. On weekends, you can browse at the Waterbury Flea Market, Vermont’s largest outdoor flea market. Ice cream lovers will appreciate the Ben & Jerry’s factory here, where they can learn how ice cream is made. And, of course, there is plenty of hiking, fishing, skiing, and snowshoeing in the nearby state parks.

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The capital city of Vermont, Montpelier has the distinction of being the smallest state capital in the U.S. Located in the Green Mountains at a spot where three rivers converge, the city is a draw for nature lovers. There’s skiing and ice skating in the winter, and kayaking and canoeing in the spring and summer. You can also hike in one of the many parks or go mountain biking on the area’s extensive trail network. The town itself is as active as its residents. There are community events and festivals on weekends, along with a multitude of restaurants, cafes, breweries, and boutique shops to enjoy. If you’re thinking of moving here, check out first-time homebuyer programs in Vermont, which include state and federal assistance programs.

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Located just a half hour from Burlington, Williston is a bustling town where there is always something to do. Recreation programs for the kids, including soccer and track and field, are offered year round, and the Catamount Family Center has hiking in the summer and cross country skiing in the winter for your entire clan. There are numerous shops and restaurants here, along with community events such as parades, a town barbecue, and summer movie nights. Parents are drawn to the area’s good schools. If you are as well, tips to qualify for a mortgage may be useful as you begin your search for a home.

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With small town charm and plenty of community spirit, this thriving area near Burlington is known for being family friendly. There are concerts and events for family entertainment plus a community pool, hiking, biking, pickleball, and skiing. The downtown is filled with shops, restaurants, and local businesses. Parents like the area’s top-rated schools, and the fact that so many families live here means there are many opportunities for play dates. Essex Junction also has public transportation via the Green Mountain Transit system. However, you may pay for these amenities: The everyday cost of living may be higher than in some other Vermont towns.

Perched on the shores of Lake Champlain, South Burlington offers beautiful vistas, more than 400 acres of parks, and 26 miles of trails for walking, hiking, and biking. The area’s excellent public schools are a draw for parents, as are the many employers in town, including start-ups and small businesses. South Burlington has plenty to keep the entire family entertained, with numerous restaurants and stores and University Mall, the largest mall in Vermont.

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Vermont’s capital city is a dynamic place, and it’s no wonder many young adults tend to settle here. Along with glorious mountain scenery and outdoor activities like kayaking, swimming, and hiking, there are restaurants, cafes, and breweries for entertainment. The resort town of Stowe is just a 30-minute drive away for world-class skiing in the winter, and for those who crave the occasional big-city adventure, Montreal is two hours by car. Job opportunities in Montpelier include working for the state government or one of the area’s many businesses, including Central Vermont Medical Center and Cabot Creamery.

Want to get up to speed before house-hunting? A home loan help center could be useful as you determine your best options for financing.

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Filled with hiking trails and parks, Colchester is a great option for young professionals who are outdoor enthusiasts. There are many hikers, bikers, and runners here, and chances are, you’ll meet some fellow athletes as you log your miles. According to residents, this is a friendly place where people love to stop and talk. Employers in the area include Vermont Public Radio, Green Mountain Power, and several tech firms. There are plenty of restaurants, art galleries, shops, and even a drive-in movie theater to keep you entertained when you’re not working or exploring nature.

Young adults can enjoy a fun and active lifestyle in this vibrant town on the banks of Lake Champlain. South Burlington has numerous stores and a mall, plus restaurants, bars, and breweries for socializing. Nature lovers will enjoy hiking, biking, and kayaking on the lake. And there are work opportunities in a variety of businesses in the area.

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Not only is it the most affordable town on our list, Randolph is also a desirable location for those ready to retire. There’s history and culture here, including the Chandler Center for the Arts for performances, exhibits, and educational programs that seniors can enjoy. The town has many restaurants and farmers markets, and there are art galleries for browsing. Other perks: The Randolph Senior Center offers a variety of workshops and programs, there are a number of senior living communities in the area, and Central Vermont Medical Center is less than a half hour away.

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Vermont’s first city, Vergennes, which is only two square miles in size, also calls itself America’s smallest city. But while its acreage may be tiny, its offerings for retirees are expansive. For arts and culture buffs, the town has a historic opera house that hosts musical and theatrical performances, and a beautiful library with a stained glass domed ceiling. Summer concerts and festivals fill the lovely park in the center of downtown. There are restaurants to grab a bite with friends, and eclectic shops to explore. Plenty of outdoor adventures also await, including canoeing and kayaking on the creek that runs through town, as well as hiking and biking.

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This dynamic little town offers breathtaking views from its location at the foot of the Green Mountains. There is a sizable senior population here who enjoy the fact that Bristol is pedestrian-friendly, with shops, bookstores, and arts and crafts boutiques for browsing, as well as restaurants and coffee places for meeting up with your peers. The sense of community runs deep — there’s a summer music festival and street fair and weekly band concerts on the town green. The city of Burlington is just 30 miles away for more arts and culture and access to the University of Vermont Medical Center.

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Vermont’s capital city sits where three rivers come together, making it a good place for those looking for waterfront property. Even if you don’t purchase a house right on the water, you’ll still have easy access to it for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. After a day of watersports, you can head into town to visit one of the many restaurants, cafes, or breweries, or enjoy one of the festivals or parades.

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This lovely town is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s surrounded by water on three sides — the Winooski River, the Lamoille River, and Lake Champlain — and you can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, or relaxing on the beach. There are also parks with trails for hiking, biking, and running. In the evenings, have dinner at one of the town’s many restaurants, or catch a movie at the drive-in, which is one of the largest in Vermont.

If you’re searching for a location near Lake Champlain that won’t cost a fortune, South Burlington may have what you’re looking for. A dynamic town that offers plenty of entertainment options, including restaurants, bars, breweries, and a mall, its lakeside location means you can swim, fish, or boat all summer and into the fall. There are also trails for lakeside runs or walks, and you can enjoy the scenic water views and calming vibes year-round.

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If you want small-town life with a state forest in your backyard while maintaining a modest budget, Berlin can accommodate your needs perfectly. It’s also popular for retirees. Berlin’s rental costs are relatively affordable, and the town’s affordability combined with outdoor recreation (fishing the Androscoggin River, camping and hiking in Jericho Mountain State Park) make it an attractive option for those who want to enjoy nature and pay lower prices for housing. Housing is more affordable here, a fact that can be especially important to first-time homebuyers.

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Avid outdoors fans will also love Claremont, where the Sugar River, Cornish Town Forest, and Green Mountain Trail are within easy reach. In addition, the Claremont Opera House is a venue for all forms of art, enhancing the area’s cultural and entertainment offerings. Claremont combines suburban flair with country surroundings at a low price point, which can be attractive, especially when combined with first-time homebuyer programs in New Hampshire.

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One of New Hampshire’s most populated cities, Rochester features a fine art museum, opera house, and nature trails. Its more urban setting means higher prices than the towns above, but the average median income helps to accommodate the costs. Those looking for an urban feel in New Hampshire can find their place here without the massively inflated prices of bigger cities. Here are the metrics for this bustling region:

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Bedford’s population is about 91% family households, and people under age 20 make up 27% of the population. Parents are likely drawn here in part because the town is known for a top-notch K-12 public school system with an average of 13 students per teacher in the district. Here are additional data points to note about Bedford:

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Dover is another of the best places to live in New Hampshire for families. Home to the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire and the Hilltop Fun Center, the city provides excitement and activities throughout the year. It’s located on the Atlantic coast, meaning it offers quick access to the beach, and it’s more populous than most of New Hampshire’s cities. Here are some essential numbers to know about Dover:

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Somersworth is a suburb sitting on the Maine border. It offers numerous parks, a golf course, and a higher median income than rural areas in the state. Plus you benefit from all the family-friendly activities in Dover, which is close by. Here are the numbers to know about this region:

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A diverse suburb packed with shops, restaurants, and outdoor recreation, Lebanon offers a lively atmosphere for young people. It has a lower price tag than Portsmouth and provides transportation to New York and Boston via the Dartmouth Coach. The city also houses the Powerhouse Mall, a regional shopping center, and is next door to Dartmouth College. Young adults — those between the ages of 20 and 39 — make up 36% of its population.

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New Hampshire’s oldest city captures the hearts of the state’s younger crowd by combining top-notch breweries, boutiques, restaurants, and outdoor activities. About 17% of its residents are between ages 20 and 39, and residents compare the city’s nightlife to that of Boston. Here are more stats on the city:

Home to the Rockingham Park Mall, the largest in New Hampshire, Salem has numerous amenities for young adults. The Castaway Island water park features a 60-foot water slide, while those who seek pure wilderness can find it in the White Mountains and surrounding lakes. In addition, Tuscan Village offers shopping, nightlife, and economic opportunities. Salem’s population includes 28% of residents between the ages of 20 and 39.

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In southern New Hampshire, a short drive from Manchester, Exeter shines as a unique retirement destination. With a remarkable 0.43 retirement community availability per 1,000 residents, the town offers abundant specialized living options. This figure, the highest among its peers on the list, underscores Exeter’s commitment to catering to retirees. Here’s more about this historically significant town that dates back to 1638:

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Situated along the border shared with Maine, Rochester emerges as another best place to live in New Hampshire for retirees. Rochester boasts a significant senior demographic, with 19% of its population composed of individuals 65 and over. It’s a promising prospect for retirees yearning for an urban ambiance in New Hampshire.

Londonderry presents a prime location with proximity to Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, easing travel for retirees and their social circles. It also boasts a robust medical infrastructure, with 3.82 medical centers per 1,000 residents.

The town has a senior population of 17%. Londonderry is an appealing choice for retirees seeking a diverse community inclusive of various ages and family structures. Londonderry is an economical choice for retirees looking to embrace their golden years.

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Sitting on the Atlantic Coast, Hampton offers a boardwalk with beautiful beaches, the Casino Ballroom entertainment venue, carnival games, deep sea fishing, and whale watching tours. In addition, bird-lovers and adventure-seekers can enjoy exploring the Hampton Salt Marshes. While the Average Rental and homeownership costs are higher than other areas, its water-related offerings are unique to the state.

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Nestled amidst a cluster of lakes, including Lake Winnipesaukee, Laconia boasts one of the lowest cost of living rankings in the state. The town has four beaches, including one for residents only. Locals enjoy entertainment at the Cake Theatre and Lakeport Opera House, not to mention boating, fishing, and other hallmarks of lakeside life. If home shopping is your next step, visit a home loan help center to learn more about the process and mortgage options.

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Portsmouth makes a second appearance, this time as an ideal beach town. It contains the mouth of the Piscataqua River, which features fantastic beaches, Peirce Island, and cliffside hiking areas. Plus, the USS Albacore Museum will inspire you to embrace life on the sea. Remember, Portsmouth is one of the more expensive locations in New Hampshire, so it can be cost-prohibitive depending on your budget.

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Spartanburg offers a wealth of arts and cultural amenities, as well as proximity to the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Several colleges and universities are located in the area, and the city is known for its family-friendly vibe.

A former stagecoach stop, the Fountain Inn area is best known for historical buildings and a meandering waterfall in Cedar Falls Park. The town’s proximity to Greenville and Columbia makes it a good option for those looking to commute to these urban areas for work. Recent renovations to its downtown promise a good balance of preservation and growth.

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This town is less than an hour from Columbia, the state capital, making it a great commuter area for those who prefer to reside outside a city. Camping and golfing are just two of the area’s outdoor activities. Families are drawn to Batesburg-Leesville’s strong options for public and private schools.

Close to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Fort Mill offers a good balance of city conveniences and suburban hush. Parents will appreciate the area’s many top-rated schools, while kids will be delighted by the expansive nature preserves, minor league basketball team, and Carowinds amusement park.

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In the 1800s, Summerville’s mild, dry climate attracted visitors looking to improve their health. Today, the town offers families — who make up just over half of all residents — walkable communities and pine-scented parks near the water. Those who intend to commute to Charleston for work can do so easily; Summerville is close to Interstate 95 and other major roadways.

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Located “upstate” near the North Carolina border, Greenville has a bustling downtown area with many family-friendly restaurants, breweries, and shops. Outdoor activities include hiking, biking, and walking on the 20-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail, which hosts an annual half marathon.

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The capital city has much to draw young professionals, from job opportunities to post-work entertainment. You’ll find music venues, an opera house, a philharmonic orchestra, and a number of museums. The Congaree Vista, formerly a warehouse district, has been revitalized with art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Considered a suburb of Myrtle Beach, Socastee offers affordable housing and wild outdoor settings. The Intracoastal Waterway runs through the city, making the area a destination for water sports enthusiasts, and the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge draws hunters, fishers, and photographers to its wetlands. Downtown, you’ll find a wealth of casual restaurants and bars.

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Greenville has everything young adults could want, from jobs with high-profile companies to a great bar scene and outdoor activities galore. The median age in Greenville is currently 35. The city is around 60% white collar residents, with an average salary of approximately $85,000 for those who hold graduate degrees. Much of the action can be found on Main Street, but hotspots are popping up in less commercial areas all the time.

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Murrells Inlet is several miles from Myrtle Beach, so retirees can enjoy the Coastal Grandma lifestyle without the attendant tourists. This quiet community also has some of the best seafood in the state and several assisted living facilities.

Another suburb of Myrtle Beach, Little River is a quiet town that hosts many retirees. The picturesque fishing community is the oldest of the 14 villages along the Grand Strand. Thanks to a cluster of restaurants and shops on the riverfront — the Little River serves as a natural border between North and South Carolina — residents can stay local or drive over the bridge to Myrtle Beach for more action.

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One of the best known beach areas in the south, Myrtle Beach has a lot to offer. Its best-of-both-worlds location means you’re near amenities like dinner theater and museums but just a short drive from quieter neighborhoods and natural settings (and golf!). A popular resort area, the coast features classic attractions like a boardwalk, aquarium, arcades, an amusement park, and a famous Ferris wheel.

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Situated close to the Georgia border, Beaufort is a small town near the beach offering many restaurants and shopping options in the downtown area. You’ll find festivals and cultural events throughout the year, and families appreciate the highly rated public and private schools.

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Torn between the beach and the inland countryside? This small coastal town has a decidedly rural feel. Plus, Murrells Inlet sits between urban Myrtle Beach and Georgetown, providing stimulating day trips. If your interests lean toward sunset cruises and walking trails, however, you may never feel the need to leave this town.

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Once termed the “Richest Hill on Earth,” Butte was flooded with prospectors around the turn of the 20th century. They dug for copper, silver, and gold. These days the city offers a small-town feel with a charming western facade — and prices that will make you feel like you’ve found treasure. Newbie homebuyers may want to check out first-time homebuyer programs in Montana.

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Sharing a name with the gorgeous waterfall along the Missouri River — now towering 148 feet — Great Falls was an important stop along Lewis and Clark’s cross-country journey. Today, it’s home to a thriving cultural scene including the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, as well as many other museums and attractions. With a cost of living index that’s only 91% of the national average, this city is a great pick for those looking to find an affordable place to live. Ready to get serious about a home purchase in Great Falls? Going through the mortgage preapproval process could help you compete more effectively against other buyers.

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The only city in Montana with a population of over 100,000, Billings offers cosmopolitan living with a gorgeous countryside backdrop — at a fraction of the price you’d pay in other big cities. With attractions including multiple museums, a world-class zoo, and several nearby state parks, Billings is also just a day’s drive from Yellowstone Park and the Beartooth Mountains. The different types of mortgage loans available could help make a home purchase more accessible for buyers. Prefer to rent? Rentals in the city are relatively affordable.

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Situated within an easy drive of both Glacier National Park and the Flathead Valley, Kalispell offers city resources within proximity of some of the best outdoor playgrounds on earth. While housing prices are a little higher than in some other Montana cities, parents may be drawn to the area because the Kalispell public school system is well regarded. If you’re looking to buy, these tips to qualify for a mortgage could help set you up for success.

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Montana’s capital city is filled with natural and manmade attractions, and it’s well situated for an easy day trip to other Montana cities like Bozeman and Missoula. Plus Helena’s downtown is lined with well-preserved Victorian architecture. It’s an affordable and picturesque place for parents to raise their kids. And the small-town vibe means children can experience a world where they actually know their neighbors.

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In this city, your kids can take after Lewis and Clark and explore the world around them. As a bonus, the city is also home to the Children’s Museum of Montana. Parents will enjoy the lower-than-American-average cost of living. Thinking of purchasing in Great Falls? Make visiting a home loan help center one of your prep steps.

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Known as the setting of A River Runs Through It — though the film was actually shot in Livingston, several hours further east — Missoula’s status as the home of the University of Montana means it sees more than its fair share of cultural events for a mid-sized city tucked into the mountains. And yes, a river really does run through it — three rivers, in fact, and one of them, the Clark Fork, has a man-made wave that people surf on. Missoula is an option for young adults hoping to find themselves and meet others along the way. Although the city’s median age is higher than the others on this list, job prospects in the education and health care fields mean plenty of opportunities for younger folks to meet.

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For those who want to be where the action is, Billings is the place. The most populous city in Montana, it’s the perfect launching point for adventurous outings in nearby state forests, or refined evenings at the Alberta Bair Theater.

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Yet again, Montana’s capital makes the list! With stunning landscapes in every direction, and lots of social activities to choose from, adventurous young adults will find plenty to do. Helena also offers job opportunities for those looking to break into the political scene.

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Tucked along the shores of Polson Bay at the southernmost end of Flathead Lake, Polson is about as picturesque as it gets. The town’s population of just over 5,000 means a relaxed pace of life along with the chance to know all your neighbors. And with almost a quarter of the population age 65 or over, retirees can look forward to plenty of get-togethers with their peers. If you’re considering buying a home that’s on the pricier side, you may want to explore jumbo mortgage loans as you’re navigating the home-buying process.

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As hip as Missoula is, it’s also a great option for retirees. For one thing, the University of Montana provides plenty of cultural attractions. In addition, summer farmers markets, community game nights, and other organized opportunities for building connections abound. Costs in Missoula remain fairly reasonable considering this is one of the state’s largest and most vibrant communities.

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Thanks to its location in the Bitterroot Valley, Hamilton has the lucky distinction of getting far less snow than other Montana cities in the winter. The town is also well known for its relaxed pace of life and proximity to hiking trails and hot springs.

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Looking to balance proximity to Glacier National Park with reasonable prices? Chances are, you’ll find it here. Located in the midst of some of the very best parts of Montana, including Flathead Lake and the Kootenai National Forest, Kalispell offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to nearby cities like Whitefish.

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This city is home to the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, the Pattee Canyon Recreation Area, and the famous Mount Sentinel M Trail. Plus, the Clark Fork River that runs through town is great for fly fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing, and more.

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Bozeman is the perfect solution for those who want it all: mountains, city life, community, and convenience. Here, you’re within easy proximity of the Bridger Range, Gallatin Range, Madison Range, Spanish Peaks, Beartooth Mountains, Crazy Mountains, and Tobacco Root Mountains — to name a few. And Yellowstone National Park is just an hour’s drive south.