What if a better quality of life is waiting for you in a place you haven’t considered — a place where you’re not just a number? Livability's Best Places list is chock-full of helpful information about living in each of their chosen Top 100 cities to help you find your perfect place to live.
How Livability Chose the Top 100 Best Cities
Livability commissions data on thousands of U.S. Cities. Then they sort through that data so you don’t have to. They partnered with Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS) to curate the Top 100 Best Places To Live in the U.S. based on nearly 100 data points and an algorithm that takes into account measures of a city’s economy, housing and cost of living, amenities, transportation, environment, safety, education and health.
There are lots of best places lists out there, but Livability's is unique for several reasons.
First, they only consider small to mid-size cities with populations between 75,000 and 500,000. To them, that’s the sweet spot in size for getting plugged in, finding your people and feeling at home fast.
Second, they believe that affordability is one of the biggest benefits of living in a smaller city. With that sentiment in mind, Livability only considers cities with a median home value of $500,000 or less. They also analyze average rent and home prices relative to income in each city, as well as other factors that influence the cost of living. Theirs is the only list truly centered around affordability.
The chosen cities may be smaller, but what you can accomplish in them is BIG.
Third, their Top 100 cities are not ranked from 1 to 100. Since there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the perfect place to live, they've created a list that is fully interactive, with tools to sort and filter according to the criteria that are most important to you.
Why You’ll Love Living In Roswell, Georgia
Roswell, Georgia — a suburb about half an hour from downtown Atlanta — is a highly sought-after community, due in part to its nationally recognized schools, Southern hospitality and countless outdoor amenities. From the running trails of Vickery Creek and cycling paths alongside the Chattahoochee River to the playgrounds, parks and sports complexes, you can easily make the most of the city’s 221 sunny days per year. Some say this scenic city is the suburb that has it all. Everything you could possibly need is conveniently located within the bounds of this northern Fulton County city.
Thinking of moving to Roswell, GA? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Roswell, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Roswell, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Roswell, GA, a Best Place to Live in 2024-2025
With a prime location close to the city of Atlanta, the nearby Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and easy access to the Chattahoochee River, Roswell, GA, is an easy pick as one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Roswell offers a combination of history, charm and modern amenities, including top-notch health care facilities — Emory Clinic, WellStar North Fulton Hospital and Piedmont Healthcare — and list-worthy schools, attractive neighborhoods and plenty of outdoor fun.
The economy is booming, with automotive, health care and technology and manufacturing industries at the forefront. Of course, moviemakers also know about the advantages of working in Roswell, which is why it’s a popular locale for film productions.
The Chattahoochee River is a beacon for outdoor lovers with floating, paddling, fishing, trails, wildlife and more. For those who love the arts, you can take your pick from theaters, concerts, art galleries and museums, including the Computer Museum of America, which has one of the largest collections of digital artifacts. The restaurants are varied and delicious, and the craft beer scene is gaining traction. Roswell knows how to have fun and hosts all kinds of annual festivals ranging from a summertime ice cream social and Monarch butterfly celebration to outdoor movies.
Things To Do in Roswell, GA
What is something free to do for fun in Roswell?
For a delightful and cost-free experience in Roswell, head to Vickery Creek Trail at Old Mill Park. The scenic trail winds you along the historic Roswell Mill Ruins, offering a peaceful escape into nature despite being within the city. Make sure to spend some time admiring the Vickery Creek waterfall while you’re there.
What are some fun things to do with kids in Roswell?
Catch a movie, play putt-putt (or both!) at Area 51, Aurora Cineplex and The Fringe Miniature Golf.
What is the best open secret about Roswell?
Roswell residents appreciate all things local. Held on Saturdays from April through October, the Roswell Farmers and Artisans Market is a lively gathering that features everything from fresh produce and artisanal goods to local crafts. It’s more than a place to buy groceries; it’s a community hub where residents gather to support local businesses, enjoy live music and savor the diverse flavors of the region.
Where do locals shop in Roswell?
Shop for a cause at Sunny & Ranney. The store sells designer furniture and home goods. Profits help pay for home makeovers for kids with special needs, creating accessible bathrooms, therapy rooms and dream bedrooms.
What is the best restaurant in Roswell?
Enjoy Southern fried chicken, catfish, collard greens and seasonal veggie plates in a cute restored cottage at Table & Main. Enjoy a nightcap at the restaurant’s bourbon bar.
Where is the best place for live music or performing arts in Roswell?
The shows at Roswell Cultural Arts Center and Roswell Performing Arts are worth looking into for those hoping to spend a night out on the town. For a broader range of options, locals often flock to nearby Atlanta.
Where is the best happy hour in Roswell?
Hugo’s Oyster Bar is a Southern-inspired haunt with seafood dishes and some of the best craft cocktails in the area.
The Local and State Economy in Roswell, GA
What are the three largest industries in Roswell?
Some of Roswell’s biggest industries include health care, technology and manufacturing. Additionally, the automotive industry is a significant economic player, and Roswell has one of the highest concentrations of car dealerships in the Greater Atlanta metropolitan area.
What is the sales tax rate in Roswell?
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Roswell is 7.75%.
Does Georgia have a state income tax?
Yes, Georgia has a state income tax.
Who are the major health care providers in Roswell?
Roswell residents are in good health thanks to the number of highly ranked providers in the city and the Greater Atlanta area. For example, Wellstar North Fulton Hospital is Georgia’s ninth-largest hospital system and home to a Level II Emergency Cardiac Care Center.
What colleges and universities are in Roswell?
Although no major colleges or universities are located in Roswell, several higher education institutions are within driving distance in nearby Atlanta.
To see the full list of Livability's Top 100 Best Places to Live, visit: Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024-2025 - Livability.com. To see Roswell's feature, visit: Moving to Roswell, GA – Best Place to Live in the U.S. in 2024-2025.