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Located on the eastern side of the big island of Hawaii, the city of Hilo sits on the water. It is surrounded by forest reserves and has quick access to hiking and beaches, such as the secluded Carlsmith Beach Park. The city is also home to the Hilo International Airport, and is one of the largest census-designated places in the state.

Looking to buy a house instead of rent? Consider these tips to qualify for a mortgage.

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Tucked away on the west coast of Oahu, Waianae offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including hikes in the Waianae Mountain Range, access to numerous nearby beaches, such as Pokai Bay Beach Park, and the weekly Waianae Farmers’ Market.

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Once a sugar plantation town, Ewa Beach is now a sprawling suburb 35 minutes north of Honolulu. Nearby White Plain Beach with its beautiful view of Diamond Head volcano makes the area a good place for outdoor recreation.

The average home value in Ewa Beach is $824,454. Some buyers here will want to look into a jumbo mortgage loan tailored to higher-priced properties.

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With plenty of restaurants, museums and outdoor spaces to enjoy, Hilo offers plenty to do for families. Visit the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center to learn about marine life around the Hawaiian island, or take a trip to the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center to see some of the world’s most advanced telescopes and learn about early Polynesian navigation history.

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Located on Pearl Harbor, Pearl City includes 11,026 households with children. Families are drawn here by its above-average public school system. They can play and relax at numerous public parks, including the Pacheco playground.

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Honolulu is home to 84,375 family households. Families with children can explore the Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, the Bishop Museum, and Ala Moana Center for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Parents may appreciate the city’s above-average schools.

Planning on purchasing instead of renting? Make sure you understand the different types of mortgage loans before you get serious about looking for a property.

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Young adults looking for a small-town feel may consider Lihue on the eastern shores of Kauai. Residents enjoy the outdoors on nearby hiking trails and beaches, and can visit local landmarks like the Ninini Point Lighthouse.

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Pearl City rests on the outskirts of Honolulu on the shores of Pearl Harbor. It offers a dense suburban feel with many restaurants, cafés, and parks.

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Honolulu offers the resources (and nightlife) of a big city. The University of Hawaii is here, as well as shopping centers and a diverse range of eateries. Despite Honolulu’s size, it is also close to natural resources, including hiking and world-famous beaches.

Particularly if this is your first time buying a home, make sure you understand the difference between mortgage preapproval and prequalification before you get into the mortgage application process.

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About 23% of people in Hilo are 65 and older. They can enjoy art galleries, museums, and events at the local University of Hawaii, as well as shopping at the local farmers market and fish market. Plant lovers flock to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden in Papaikou and the Liliuokalani Gardens Japanese garden.

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Retirees looking for a small town feel may appreciate this sleepy town on the western side of the island of Oahu. Residents 65 and older represent about 14.4% of the population and can enjoy local restaurants, shops, or relax on Pokai Beach.

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Kahalu’u offers residents a mixed suburban and rural setting. The slow-paced town is only 30 minutes from Honolulu and access to big-city resources like shopping and hospitals. Nearly 22% of the population here is 65 or older.

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A small town on the western shores of Oahu, Waianae is home to Makaha Beach, which is good for surfing. Those looking for a protected bay for swimming may try Maili Beach with its stunning mountain views.

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Residents of Kailua on the eastern shores of Oahu can enjoy nearby Lanikai Beach for snorkeling with sea turtles, or Kailua Beach with spectacular vistas. Though relatively small, the city offers residents a diverse array of shops and restaurants. Home cooks may enjoy the local farmers market.

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Honolulu is home to world famous Waikiki Beach, which is lined with highrise hotels, and provides easy access to shopping. Waikiki welcomes sunbathers, swimmers and world class surfing competitions throughout the year.

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The second largest city in the state and the capital, Dover offers affordability and much more. Residents praise this city and surrounding dense suburban area for maintaining a relaxing, small town feel; they also give thumbs-up to the area’s parks, school system, and shopping options. The fact that you can be in Wilmington (the state’s biggest city) or at the popular Rehoboth Beach in less than an hour is another asset. (If you’re thinking of buying, it can be wise to review the different types of mortgages to find one that suits you best.)

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Residents enjoy the friendly small-town vibe of Smyrna, which is located less than 20 minutes from Dover and about 40 minutes from Wilmington. Smyrna is a convenient location for all ages and life stages. The nearby Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge and Blackbird State Forest will please nature lovers, while those looking for a bit of local nightlife may want to visit Painted Stave Distilling or Blue Earl Brewing Company.

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Middletown is a popular location for many people in Delaware to settle. Downtown’s Main Street hosts an array of festivals and celebrations, such as the Old-Tyme Peach Festival, which adds to the friendly, lively atmosphere. Whether ax throwing or apple picking is your idea of fun, Middletown can deliver. Residents also praise the local school system. (Tip: You can read up on tips for qualifying for a mortgage if you are in home-buying mode and getting ready to apply for a home loan.)

Pike Creek is a popular place for families who want an easy commute to Wilmington. This community of almost 8,000 is set amid rolling hills with plenty of biking, hiking, and walking trails to keep active families busy. Parents may appreciate the public school options, the small-town feel, as well as Pike Creek’s convenient location to shopping malls and entertainment.

North Star appeals to families in part due to its convenient location: Parents may commute to either Wilmington (30 minutes by car) or Philadelphia (about an hour). Parents say they enjoy the public school system in North Star as well as the moderate housing prices. What’s more, the rural town offers a wealth of options to keep a clan busy, such as cafes, parks (like White Clay Creek State Park), shops, and the Mount Cuba Astronomical Observatory.

For those who want a rural setting, Townsend can make an affordable home base for families. Residents are often pleased with the well-regarded public school system. Townsend’s small-town feel amid farmland can provide a slower pace compared to more urban settings in Delaware. The Hagley Museum and Library, located on 200 acres of the former DuPont family estate, and Delaware Museum of Natural History are within easy reach for family outings.

Delaware Avenue is a neighborhood in Wilmington, the state’s biggest city. It’s considered among the best places to live for young professionals in Delaware thanks to its happening downtown feel. That means there are plenty of stores, restaurants, and bars to explore. Located near Brandywine Park, which borders Brandywine Creek, it has charming old brick buildings, and is also close to Trolley Square with its lively murals and artsy vibe. A reasonable home price-to-income ratio makes this a good bet for first-time homebuyers looking to see their investment pay off down the line.

A repeat list-maker, Pike Creek can be a great place for young professionals to put down roots, whether you are a recent grad or a bit further along in life. Just 10 miles west of Wilmington (which can make for an easy commute to the city), Pike Creek is known for its mix of natural beauty and fun activities, such as the Carousel Park Farmers Market and the Acadian Wine Company.

Forty Acres is a neighborhood in Wilmington, and its residents can appreciate the variety of activities there. Some enjoy the dog park at Rockford Park; others cite the beautiful Brandywine Park; and still others like the block parties that crop up. With live music at a number of bars, art galleries, and restaurants, Forty Acres can be a fun place for young professionals to settle.

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Lewes is a popular and affordable place to retire in Delaware. With a median age of 65.7, it seems as if word has gotten out that this is a good location for those of retirement age. In the summer, the beach is just six or so miles away, and the ferry to the Victorian community of Cape May, N.J., leaves from Lewes, which can make for fun outings. With an average home value of $578,475, you might want to visit a home loan help center to learn more about how much house you can afford.

Prefer a more suburban place to retire? With its rolling hills and easy access to both Philadelphia (about 55 minutes away) and Wilmington (25 minutes) for cultural activities, Pike Creek can be a smart choice. People 65-plus make up 16.2% of the population, so that means you’ll be part of a community with a dynamic mix of younger professionals and families.

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Sixty-two percent of the households in Hockessin are without children, meaning retirees will likely find others who are at the empty-next stage of life. Its location means residents can both explore the lush parks and countryside or zip into a nearby city to check out a museum or an array of dining options. Philadelphia, for instance, is about a 50-minute drive away.

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A well-known vacation destination, Rehoboth Beach is sometimes referred to as the Nation’s Summer Capital, thanks to its beautiful beaches, arcades, seafood, and farmers’ markets. But it can also be a year-round best place to live in Delaware. There’s nearby Henlopen State Park, a former military base, to explore as the hustle and bustle of warmer weather dies down, as well as a local theater company, movies, and shopping for entertainment.

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Lewes is a picturesque and historic place, making it one of the best affordable places to live in Delaware. It’s located at the mouth of the Delaware River, and public transportation can make it easy to get to Wilmington and Rehoboth, among other destinations. The town has a historical society, museum, and other cultural attractions.

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Home to just 300 or so people, Slaughter Beach is nestled between the Marvel Salt Marsh Preserve and Prime Hook Wildlife Management Area, with pristine beaches by the sea. It’s a tranquil place to live and commune with nature.

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With its modest housing prices, diverse population, and access to employment, Pennsauken Township tops this list of most affordable places to live in New Jersey. Its transit center allows residents to navigate the surrounding areas with ease. In addition, they can enjoy boating in Cooper River Lake, golfing at the Pennsauken Country Club, and touring the Griffith Morgan House historical museum. The town’s budget-friendly home price-to-income ratio can be attractive to first-time homebuyers and seasoned homebuyers alike. Ready to hit the open houses? Completing the mortgage preapproval process can help you get on the path to buying a home.

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Gloucester Township is another of the top affordable places to live in New Jersey. Although it’s home to almost 70,000 people, it’s full of tight-knit neighborhoods with moderately priced housing. The city focuses on community support and businesses to help its residents thrive, and access to the Black Horse Turnpike and well-preserved municipal roads make transportation a snap. In fact, Philadelphia is just 10 minutes away, though there’s plenty to do in Gloucester Township, from visiting Royal Mile Coffee Roasters to spending an afternoon in Proprietors Park. If you’re planning on buying a home, it can be wise to read up on tips about qualifying for a mortgage first.

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From museums to an outdoor sculpture park and fine dining, Trenton, the state capital, offers an endless amount to do. The city is bursting with culture and amenities while maintaining a realistic price tag. In early 2025, the average home value here was around $335,000. And Trenton is less than an hour from Philadelphia, making for an easy commute for those who work there.

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Chock full of lakes, parks, and nature preserves, Rockaway is a quiet suburb. Residents often mention the school system as an asset that makes the town a good place for families. Tucked further inland, Rockaway requires a longer commute to New York City than some other suburbs. Family households make up 69.31% of its residents, and 31.57% of households have children. When its housing costs are combined with the strong median household income of $139,383, these figures indicate a relatively affordable cost of living.

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Another top spot to raise a family in New Jersey is Toms River. It’s a large suburban enclave along the coast of New Jersey, named for the river that serves as one of its borders. Residents praise this outdoorsy location with plenty of trails to hike and bike, the school system, and the proximity, come summer, to the beach and its boardwalks. Whether your idea of a fun Friday night is having a great meal in a local restaurant, watching a high-school ball game, or both, you’ll probably enjoy life in Toms River. Purchasing a property likely wouldn’t necessitate a jumbo mortgage loan for most homebuyers.

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Located about 45 minutes from New York City, Mountainside is a small town that many families find both affordable and welcoming. They praise the school system and outdoor spaces, like the Trailside Nature and Science Center and Watchung Reservation. There are also many options in terms of shopping and dining out. The relatively short commute to New York City is another benefit and helps contribute to the area’s high household incomes.

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Jersey City has an enviably short commute to New York City. In some cases, a bus or train can whisk you there in 20 minutes or less, and ferry service is an option too. Plus, businesses are increasingly calling Jersey City home, making for an even easier trip to the office. These features, plus beautiful parks, are just a few perks that make Jersey City a desirable place for young professionals. Its diverse, young population can mean there’s always a new experience around the corner. Residents between the ages of 20 and 39 account for 39% of the city’s population. The overall cost of living here is comparable to nearby Manhattan, but those who choose this side of the Hudson River enjoy more space for less money and can still spend a weekend roaming the bigger city.

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Highland Park is conveniently located about an hour away from both New York City and Philadelphia, but young professionals might find it hard to tear themselves away from the town. It offers an engaging and affordable mix of activities, from diverse restaurants to sample to farmer’s market to visit to spacious parks to explore. Thirty-six percent of its population is aged 20-39.

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Less expensive than either Hoboken (which didn’t make our list) or Jersey City, both popular with young adults, Secaucus is a bustling suburb just a 15-minute train ride from New York City. In terms of budget-friendliness, Secaucus boasts low property taxes and ample outdoor recreation opportunities. The town is an economic powerhouse, and 31% of the population is ages 20-39. For those who are thinking of purchasing, it can be a good move to check out programs for first-time homebuyers in New Jersey to help you get the most affordable deal.

Mountainside pops up on this list again, this time as a best place for retirees to live in New Jersey. It’s a small town with 25% of its population aged over 65 years. Opportunities for adventure-seeking retirees include cross-country skiing in Watchung Reservation, accessible train rides to Manhattan, and a selection of high-quality restaurants.

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Berkeley Heights’ population consists of 20% of residents age 65+. Located on the western side of Watchung Reservation, the town offers outdoor activities, senior programming, and a vibrant retiree community. The town government makes a weekly phone call to seniors updating them about community news and events, and schedules periodic outings as well. The county government organizes a “Social 60+” meal voucher program that helps seniors gather periodically in an area restaurant for a healthy meal and social connections.

Nestled in the middle of the state, Bedminster is a quiet suburb that may suit many retirees. It features multiple parks, golf courses, and free weekly transportation to a nearby shopping center for seniors. Twenty-seven percent of residents are 65 or older.

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Asbury Park’s beach is lined with attractions (besides the Atlantic Ocean of course), such as mini golf, a splash park, a playground, vibrant murals, and various restaurants. There’s a dynamic music scene, anchored by the famed Stone Pony made famous by Springsteen. The downtown is enjoying a renaissance, with lots of hip eateries and boutiques opening.

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Just a stone’s throw from Asbury Park is the charming, historic town of Ocean Grove, noted for its Victorian architecture. In addition to beach access and its charming main street, it’s known for its Great Auditorium by the water, an amazing old-fashioned wooden structure that hosts events and can be a great place to hear music.

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If you’re dreaming of a classic beach town with loads of architectural interest, Cape May could be right for you. It sits on New Jersey’s southernmost point and is known for its beautiful beaches, a whale watching center, the famous open-air Washington Street mall, and a salt marsh safari.

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Located in the northern reaches of New York State, about four hours from New York City, Syracuse is a vibrant town that’s home to 22,000-plus Syracuse University students. But it’s not just a college town: There are over 120,000 other residents living in a variety of bustling downtown neighborhoods, such as Hanover, Clinton, and Armory Squares, all with well-preserved historic buildings. And there’s a wealth of outdoor activities in the area’s parks, lakes, and ponds. You can refuel at the famous Dinosaur Bar-B-Que after. Home prices are moderate here and the rental market is cool, so you are likely to have some choice.

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A college town in the Finger Lakes region of New York, Cortland can be an affordable and welcoming place to call home. It stretches along the Tioughnioga River and can be a terrific spot for those who love the outdoors and sports (there are three places to ski within a 15-mile drive). It has a wine trail, and the downtown has been undergoing a revitalization program leading up to the city’s 125th anniversary in 2025. Those features and the fact that you can snag a house in the range of $200,000 can make it an affordable place to live in New York. First-time homebuyer programs in New York might make the cost of purchasing a property even more attainable.

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Located along the Hudson River, the state capital of Albany is another best affordable place to live in New York. It has great historic and modern architecture; it’s a college town and entertainment hub; and you’ll find a variety of residential neighborhoods. Downtown’s Center Square, for instance, has an old-fashioned urban feel, with row houses and cobblestone streets, as well as museums (don’t miss the New York State Museum at Empire State Plaza), galleries, bookstores, cafes, and wine bars. Many Albany residents choose to live in the nearby suburbs, and wherever you might settle, there are parks and lakes for nature lovers to explore. Although Albany’s cost of living is slightly above the U.S. average, it is 18% below the average for New York State. And homeownership can be affordable, too, with the average home value sitting at around $297,440.

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There are plenty of kid-centric activities to cater to families here. There’s the Saratoga Children’s Museum, programs at the local library, and all kinds of dining options available. You can hike around the Saratoga National Historic Park (a Revolutionary War battlefield) or watch the horse races in summer at the celebrated local track. Residents say they appreciate the public school system and the clubs and extracurriculars offered. While the cost of living is above the U.S. average, it is 10% below the New York state average. If you dream of moving to this quaint town, it could be wise to start the mortgage preapproval process before hitting the open houses.

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Williamsville is a welcoming suburb of Buffalo, a city in northern New York State. The town is a short drive to the heart of the city, but it has plenty of historic charm, with 18th-century buildings, a waterfront area on the creek, farmers’ markets, and locally owned boutiques and breweries. Families praise the local public schools and the community activities that bond the town.

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Home to Ithaca College and Cornell University, this town may be full of college students, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t families, too. Residents here say they are pleased with the school system’s academic and extracurricular programs. Other assets are the stunning scenery, an eco-conscious lifestyle, and a surprisingly varied selection of eateries and stores. Whether your idea of a perfect day revolves around an interactive museum like the Sciencenter or paddling on Cayuga Lake, Ithaca has you covered. For those thinking about buying a home, it helps to take time to consider the different types of mortgages available before beginning your search in earnest.

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Wondering what job opportunities there are for young professionals in Albany? Since it’s both the state capital and the home of the University at Albany, government, health care, and education are key sectors. After work, residents have an array of dining, cultural, and entertainment choices. For instance, the North Albany Warehouse District is known for having cool bars and beer gardens, as well as the MVP Arena, where live music can be heard. Thinking about purchasing your own place? The median listing price of around $292,000 can be affordable for many first-time homebuyers.

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Located in the northwestern reaches of New York on Lake Ontario, Rochester is a city that is known for affordability, its historic downtown, and diverse neighborhoods. Young professionals will find solid job growth as compared to elsewhere in the state, with education and health services sectors expanding, and there are thousands of acres of parks to be explored when not at work. In addition, there’s a restaurant scene (Strangebird and Avvino earn raves), as well as festivals and entertainment to enjoy. Buying a home here can be affordable. If you’re ready to do so, a good first step can be to read up on tips for qualifying for a mortgage.

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Making another appearance on this list, Syracuse can provide a solid home base for young professionals. They may find job opportunities at Syracuse University and in the health care sector, among other realms. The city’s affordability is a big plus. Rents are 30% below the national median, and home prices can be reasonable. The city offers a mix of cultural activities, like shows at the Landmark Theater, and plenty of outdoor activities, such as rock climbing, nearby.

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Yes, it’s Syracuse, on this list again. Here’s why it can be among the best places in New York for retirees: It’s a college town, with its own special breed of energy and coffee shop culture. There’s plenty of natural beauty to explore on walking trails; charming old-fashioned streets; and affordable real estate. It seems as if word may be out about Syracuse: While people aged 65 and older make up less than 20% of the population, the number of older adults rose by 43% over the last decade. In other words, retirees will be in good company.

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The Hudson Valley, north of New York City, is known for its quaint towns and its gorgeous landscapes, which have inspired artists for generations. Rhinebeck is one of its central towns, and people 65 or older account for approximately 30% of the population. In addition to the beautiful setting, the town is a foodie paradise; nearby Bard College brings performances to the area; and there are scenic trails, such as those at Poets’ Walk Park and Wilderstein Historic Park.

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One can quickly get into Buffalo for hockey games and other events, but Williamsville itself is full of charm, with residents saying it’s a wonderful place to stroll past its historic buildings and stop into a local pub, cafe, or restaurant. They also appreciate the availability of good medical care, the parks, golf, and other amenities.

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With expansive views of Lake Erie, Dunkirk can offer prospective homebuyers a wallet-friendly opportunity to enjoy waterfront living. Boating is a big pastime, as is spending time at the pier. The community is a diverse one, with two colleges within 10 minutes. The town also has historic areas to explore, or an afternoon could be spent visiting the Chautauqua and Lake Erie wine trails.

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If you’re the sort of person who imagines sandy beaches when you think about living by the water, Islip could be the right spot for you. It’s on Long Island, which is often very pricey, but relatively affordable homes are available in this large suburban area. There’s a town beach and shore-side Heckscher State Park, as well as ferry service to the Fire Island National Seashore. A home loan help center can help you calculate what your monthly costs would look like in Islip.

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Bordering Lake Otsego, Cooperstown is a charming village in central New York. You may recognize the name since it’s the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame. It’s a popular vacation destination for that reason, but the community can be an excellent year-round home too. Residents can enjoy the lake, whether swimming, boating, fishing, or sunbathing. When not living the life aquatic, they can check out the noteworthy museums and many popular restaurants.