The 50 best places to live in America

39. Rochester, New York

Population: 1,083,156

Average annual salary: $47,590

Quality of life: 7

Value: 7.4

The cost of living is far below the national average in Rochester, which is New York state’s third-largest metro area and home to 15 colleges and universities. Only about 20% of the area’s residents live within the city limits, but according to a local expert, “the tide may be turning” thanks to new luxury housing developments downtown.

“Ultimately, Rochester’s biggest asset is its people. Residents are generally considered to be warmer, kinder and more welcoming than their downstate brethren,” says the local expert.