Auburn has been ranked among the top 100 best places to live in the U.S. in 2025, according to a report by Livability.
Livability is an online platform that helps individuals find cities to live, work and raise families in. Each year, editors at Livability combine their love of places with proprietary data to form a list of the top 100 best places to live in the U.S.
The Livability Top 100 is not a ranked list that presents the best places to live in America from number one to 100. Rather, it allows individuals to filter and rank criteria according to their own priorities, enabling the creation of a personalized list of ideal living locations.
Users can emphasize the data categories most significant to them, as well as indicate preferred home pricing, population size and region. Recognizing that the optimal place to live varies from person to person, this list aims to assist people in finding the best location for their specific needs.
This year, Auburn made the list with a score of 666 out of 1000. The city was ranked highest for housing, safety and environment. Other Alabama cities that made the list are Hoover and Huntsville.
Contributing factors were amenities, economy, education, health and transportation. Auburn scored above 50% for each of these categories.
Notable Auburn landmarks mentioned in the report include Kiesel Park, Jordan-Hare Stadium, the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art and Chewacla State Park.
“One thing you’ll quickly notice after moving to Auburn, AL, is that those who call it home are bursting with community pride,” Livability stated in its report.
This pride is evident throughout the citizens of Auburn.
“We’re proud to see Auburn recognized as one of the best places to live in the country. Auburn is a vibrant community and we’re passionate about the place we call home. Auburn University students are a vital part of our welcoming spirit, and our healthy town and gown relationship is part of what makes Auburn so unique. Rankings like this highlight the quality of life we enjoy, which is why new people are calling Auburn home every day,” said city of Auburn Mayor Ron Anders.
Friends enjoy lemonade from Toomer's Corner on Thursday, June 1, 2017 in downtown Auburn, Ala.
According to the president and CEO of Auburn-Opelika Tourism, Robyn Bridges, what makes Auburn flourish are the year-round events, youthful energy, thriving food scene and welcoming atmosphere. She feels these aspects make people who visit Auburn feel at home.
“Seeing Auburn named one of the top places to live is a recognition that truly reflects the spirit of our community. It’s a place we love to share with visitors and are even more grateful to call our own,” Bridges said.
Auburn University students also expressed their enthusiasm in Auburn being named a top city in America.
“[Living in Auburn has] been really fun, so far. Being from Texas, the weather here is a lot nicer, so I've definitely enjoyed that, and it's just been an amazing feeling around campus, getting to explore new places and grow comfortable,” said Noah Robert, freshman in chemical engineering.
According to Robert, Livability’s report proves that he has chosen the right place to go to college — the right place to call home for four years. His favorite thing to do in Auburn is play pickleball with friends.
“It feels like I made the right decision in coming to Auburn, and I have no regrets so far. I like how small [Auburn is] and there’s such a community feel around Auburn. There's a sense of respect between everyone which makes for a really good time,” Robert said.
This recognition from Livability highlights what residents and visitors alike have long known: Auburn offers an exceptional quality of life. From its strong sense of community and vibrant atmosphere to its abundant amenities, Auburn provides a welcoming and enriching experience for all who call it home.
The city's unique blend of Southern charm, youthful energy and unwavering community pride creates a place where people not only live, but thrive. As Auburn continues to garner national attention, its commitment to fostering a high-quality of life ensures its place as a desirable destination for years to come.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
Sam Vise, senior in journalism, is the Assistant Culture Editor for The Auburn Plainsman. She has previously served as a culture writer and community reporter.
