New U.S. News Ranking Names 9 Wisconsin Cities Among Best in the Nation

Sometimes it's nice to see your home state get a little national love. According to U.S. News & World Report, Wisconsin just landed nine cities on the 2025-2026 list of the Best Places to Live in the U.S.

How U.S. News Ranked America's Best Cities

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To build the list, U.S. News analyzed 859 cities, the biggest sample yet, using data on quality of life, job market, value, net migrations, and how badly people want to live there. It's not just about pretty parks and low rent (though those help); it's about long-term livability.

Wisconsin Proud: 9 Cities That Made the Cut

Here's how Wisconsin represented in the top 250:

• #49 – Eau Claire (hello, artsy river town vibes)
• #53 – Appleton
• #87 – Waukesha
• #114 – Oshkosh
• #125 – Wausau
• #170 – Green Bay (yes, even without a playoff win)
• #185 – Sheboygan
• #186 – Janesville
• #214 – Kenosha

Not bad, Badger State.

MORE: Romantic Weekends Are Best Spent In This Wisconsin Town

Ready for a Wisconsin Road Trip?

With nine cities on the national radar, now's a great time to pack a cooler, load up the playlist, and explore your own state, or scout a new one. Whether you're looking for job opportunities, small-town charm, or just really good cheese curds, these spots are worth the drive.

READ MORE: 3 Must-Visit Farmers Markets in Wisconsin

The top 15 best places to live in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report:

1. Johns Creek, Georgia
2. Carmel, Indiana
3. Pearland, Texas
4. Fishers, Indiana
5. Cary, North Carolina
6. League City, Texas
7. Apex, North Carolina
8. Leander, Texas
9. Rochester Hills, Michigan
10. Troy, Michigan
11. Sammamish, Washington
12. Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
13. Ellicott City, Maryland
14. Flower Mound, Texas
15. Pflugerville, Texas

Take a peek at this post from jsonline.com to see which 14 cities top the list of best places to live in Wisconsin.

MORE: This Milwaukee-Area Joint Just Swept Best Burger and Ice Cream in Wisconsin