Memphis Shines Bright as One of the Best Places to Live in the U.S.
Hey, Memphis! Have you heard the exciting news? Our very own city has made quite a splash, landing a spot on the prestigious list of the top 150 best places to live in the United States! That’s right, Memphis has hit the big time, and we couldn’t be prouder!
A Solid Ranking
According to U.S. News & World Report, Memphis ranked 122nd on the list – one place ahead of Miami and just a smidge behind Bakersfield, California. Isn’t that something to celebrate? The scores indicate that Memphis earned a solid 5.2 for quality of life and a higher 7.1 for value. With an overall score of 5.8 out of 10, Memphis is definitely holding its own!
What Makes Memphis Special?
Now, you might be wondering what set us apart from all those other cities vying for a top spot. According to Jacqueline Jones from U.S. News & World Report, Memphis is truly a unique blend of urban energy and the easygoing vibes of the South. “Set in the Mississippi Delta, Memphis is a metro area where the energy of urban living melds with the slow rhythms of the rural South,” Jones said, adding that the city is swamped with cultural history, with famous landmarks paying tribute to legends like Elvis Presley and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr..
But that’s not all! Memphis also boasts a cozy small-town atmosphere where everyone feels like family. With a close-knit community, the city is known for its warmth – perfect for both newcomers and longtime residents. It’s no wonder that musicians are drawn here; there’s a spirit of creativity that flows through our streets!
The Heart of the Community
Jones also highlighted the role of nonprofits and faith-based organizations in shaping Memphis. Residents really step up to take care of their neighborhoods, fostering a welcoming environment. This commitment to community makes it easier for newcomers to find their place and build social connections. Talk about a great way to settle into a new home!
Competing with Other Cities
In the grand scheme of things, Memphis secured the title of the fourth best place to live in Tennessee, coming in behind Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. For those curious about the competition, Naples, Florida, claimed the top title with an impressive score of 7.1. Meanwhile, the list’s final place was taken by San Juan, Puerto Rico. Looks like we’ve got some stiff competition out there!
Staying Connected this Holiday Season
And speaking of community, keep an eye out for the Minnesota Grizzlies and their fourth annual “Grizz Shop Local” event, which took place recently. It’s a fabulous opportunity to support small businesses and get into the holiday spirit!
Wrapping Up
As we embrace the joy of living in Memphis, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes our city so special. Whether you’re enjoying a scenic view of the Mississippi River or indulging in amazing Southern cuisine, Memphis is truly a gem worth celebrating! Here’s to making more memories in our beloved city!
So, Memphis folks, let’s keep smiling and loving our community. Cheers to another wonderful season in this vibrant city!

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.