Colorado Springs has been named the 3rd best city to live in the United States according to the yearly U.S. News and World Report. This ranking takes into account four key indexes: Quality of Life, Value Index, Desirability Index, and Job Market Index. Each index is calculated using various sets of data, both internal and external in nature.
Desirability is one area in which Colorado Springs excels. In a survey of 3,500 individuals, the city ranked as the most desirable place to live in the entire nation. Erika Giovanetti from U.S. News and World Report pointed out the strong draw that Colorado Springs seems to have on people from all walks of life.
The city is also competitive in terms of the Job Market and Quality of Life Indexes. The Job Market Index looks at the unemployment rate and average salaries, while the Quality of Life Index considers factors such as crime rates, education quality, the FEMA Risk Index, and Air Quality Index.
One area in which Colorado Springs did not perform as well was the Value Index. This indicator takes into consideration housing affordability and price parity compared to other cities. Johnna Reeder Klaeymeyer, the CEO and President of the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce, acknowledged the need for more affordable housing and a focus on improving access to childcare and education in the city.
Despite some areas that could use improvement, Klaeymeyer expressed her happiness with the ranking overall. Moving up from number nine to number three in the nation is a cause for celebration in Colorado Springs, she noted.