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10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027

📖 2,689 words🗓️ Published Aug 15, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best small towns to live in america are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Bozeman, Montana

10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 1

Bozeman ranks first because it uniquely combines a real economy, a commercial airport, and unmatched outdoor access. Montana State University anchors employment alongside a growing tech and photonics cluster, while the median home price sits near $650,000. Rents for a two-bedroom run around $1,900 monthly, and the town has no state sales tax. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport offers direct flights to major hubs, a rarity for a town this size.

This town is for remote workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families who can absorb the high housing cost. Skiing at Bridger Bowl and Big Sky, trout fishing on the Madison and Gallatin rivers, and hiking in the Bridger Range are all within reach. The downside is growth pressure: traffic and prices have climbed sharply since 2020, and winter heating bills are steep. Even so, the research university and Yellowstone proximity keep it the strongest all-around pick.

2. Fayetteville, Arkansas

10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 2

Fayetteville ranks second as the best value, pairing a median home price near $330,000 with genuine corporate job security. The University of Arkansas drives employment, and the broader metro hosts Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt corporate offices. The cost of living runs below the national average, and a growing trail network includes over 40 miles of paved greenway. It offers mountain-biking culture that rivals Colorado at a fraction of the price.

This town suits young professionals, families, and anyone priced out of coastal markets. Northwest Arkansas has invested heavily in culture, including the free Crystal Bridges Museum in nearby Bentonville. Razorback sports draw the whole region, and the regional airport (XNA) offers direct flights to major hubs. Compared to Bozeman above, Fayetteville trades dramatic mountain scenery for far lower housing costs and equally steady employment.

3. Asheville, North Carolina

10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 3

Asheville ranks third for its dense arts scene, craft breweries, and mild four-season climate in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The median home price is around $450,000, higher than much of the Southeast due to sustained demand. The economy leans on tourism, healthcare through Mission Hospital, and a strong small-business community. The town recovered through 2025 and 2026 from Hurricane Helene flooding, with rebuilt infrastructure along the French Broad River.

This town fits creatives, retirees, and remote workers who want walkable downtown density and immediate mountain access. The Blue Ridge Parkway runs right past town for hiking and fall color, and the Biltmore Estate anchors historic tourism. Compared to Fayetteville above, Asheville offers more cultural cachet and scenic drama but carries a higher price tag and flood risk. Buyers should budget for added insurance costs in river-adjacent areas.

4. Bend, Oregon

10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 4

Bend ranks fourth for its dry east-side Cascade location with more than 300 days of sun a year and immediate access to skiing at Mt. Bachelor. The median home price is roughly $640,000, reflecting its popularity, and Oregon has no sales tax. The Deschutes River runs through town, and the economy blends outdoor-recreation brands, breweries, and a growing remote-work population. The vibrant downtown offers a strong restaurant and craft-beer scene.

This town suits outdoor lovers and remote professionals with strong incomes who prioritize sunshine and recreation. Compared to Asheville above, Bend offers drier weather and better skiing but a higher median home price and a more isolated location. The trade-off is a smaller cultural scene and fewer direct flight options. Buyers should expect competitive bidding and plan for wildfire-season awareness in the surrounding forests.

5. Sioux Falls, South Dakota

10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 5

Sioux Falls ranks fifth for affordability, healthcare jobs, and tax friendliness, with a median home price near $330,000 and no state income tax. Major employers include Sanford Health and Avera Health, plus a strong financial-services sector thanks to favorable banking laws. The unemployment rate is consistently among the lowest in the nation, and Falls Park anchors a revitalized downtown. Citibank, Wells Fargo, and other lenders run large operations here.

This town fits families, healthcare workers, and financial-sector professionals seeking low taxes and job security. Compared to Bend above, Sioux Falls offers far lower housing costs and a stronger job market but lacks mountain recreation and mild weather. Winters are genuinely cold, though the downtown has transformed with restaurants and sculpture-lined paths. The trade-off is a flat landscape and fewer outdoor adventure options within a short drive.

6. Traverse City, Michigan

10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 6

Traverse City ranks sixth for waterfront living on Grand Traverse Bay, surrounded by cherry orchards and wineries. The median home price is around $400,000, and the summer economy thrives on tourism while year-round jobs come from Munson Healthcare and a growing tech presence. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is 30 minutes away, offering world-class shoreline scenery. The charming downtown is packed with restaurants, boutiques, and a working waterfront.

This town suits boaters, food-and-wine lovers, and seasonal-business owners who can weather the tourism cycle. Compared to Sioux Falls above, Traverse City offers far superior natural beauty and a more vibrant summer scene but has a higher cost of living and a more seasonal economy. Winters are long and snowy, though they bring skiing and winter festivals. The trade-off is a smaller year-round job market and a heavier reliance on hospitality employment.

7. Eagle, Idaho

10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 7

Eagle ranks seventh for big-city access with a quieter small-town feel, sitting in the fast-growing Boise metro. The median home price runs $700,000-plus, with nearby Meridian closer to $500,000, reflecting newer housing stock and high demand. Micron Technology and HP anchor tech jobs, and the Boise River greenbelt links the region. Idaho has a flat 5.695% income tax, which offsets some of the tax advantages of other states.

This town fits tech workers and families willing to pay for newer construction and proximity to Boise's amenities. Compared to Traverse City above, Eagle offers a stronger tech job market and drier climate but far less natural water access and a higher price point. The Boise metro has been one of the fastest-growing in the country, bringing traffic and construction. The trade-off is a suburban feel rather than a historic downtown core.

8. Chattanooga, Tennessee

10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 8

Chattanooga ranks eighth for affordability, fast internet, and outdoor recreation, with a median home price near $340,000 and no state income tax. The city built one of the country's first citywide gigabit fiber networks, drawing remote workers, and Volkswagen's only US assembly plant anchors manufacturing. The Tennessee Riverwalk runs 16 miles, and the revitalized downtown features an aquarium and riverfront parks.

This town suits remote workers, manufacturing employees, and climbers who want low costs and high-speed connectivity. Compared to Eagle above, Chattanooga offers a much lower median home price and a more established downtown, but a smaller tech sector. The EPB municipal fiber network is among the fastest residential internet available anywhere in the country. The trade-off is a hotter, more humid summer climate and fewer mountain-town amenities within walking distance.

9. Burlington, Vermont

10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 9

Burlington ranks ninth for lakefront living on Lake Champlain with the Adirondacks across the water and the Green Mountains to the east. The median home price is around $500,000, and the cost of living is high for the region. The University of Vermont and its medical center anchor jobs, and the Church Street Marketplace is a pedestrian downtown core. The town offers strong walkability and progressive amenities in a compact footprint.

This town fits academics, healthcare workers, and four-season outdoor people who value a tight-knit community. Compared to Chattanooga above, Burlington offers superior lake and mountain scenery and a more walkable downtown, but a higher cost of living and a colder, snowier winter. The trade-off is a smaller job market outside of education and healthcare. The state's high taxes are offset by a strong sense of place and easy access to skiing and hiking.

10. Greenville, South Carolina

10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 10

Greenville ranks tenth for downtown energy, manufacturing jobs, and Southern affordability, with a median home price near $340,000. The city transformed its downtown around the Reedy River and Falls Park, becoming a model of small-city revitalization. BMW's largest global plant sits nearby in Spartanburg, and Michelin's North American headquarters is in town. The Swamp Rabbit Trail runs 22 miles, connecting neighborhoods and parks.

This town suits families and auto-industry professionals who want a vibrant downtown without coastal prices. Compared to Burlington above, Greenville offers a warmer climate, a stronger manufacturing base, and a lower median home price, but lacks a large lake and mountain views. The downtown is dense with restaurants, shops, and a popular park with a suspension bridge. The trade-off is a more car-dependent layout and a less distinct seasonal identity.

How we ranked these

This ranking measured five weighted factors: cost of living (30%), job growth and economic stability (25%), safety and crime rates (20%), healthcare access and quality (15%), and quality-of-life amenities such as outdoor recreation, culture, and walkability (10%). Data came from Census Bureau estimates, Zillow home values, BLS employment figures, and local crime statistics.

We deliberately ignored subjective factors like political climate, school ratings beyond basic availability, and personal lifestyle preferences such as nightlife or religious community. These are impossible to rank objectively and vary too much by individual. We also excluded towns with populations over 250,000 to maintain a small-town focus, and we did not factor in climate change projections or long-term environmental risks beyond known flood zones.

FAQ

What is the most affordable small town on this list?

Fayetteville, Arkansas and Sioux Falls, South Dakota tie for the best value, both with median home prices near $330,000. Sioux Falls adds no state income tax, while Fayetteville pairs low housing with real corporate jobs from Walmart and Tyson.

Which small towns have the best job markets?

Boise (Micron, HP), Chattanooga (Volkswagen), and the Fayetteville-Bentonville corridor (Walmart, Tyson, J.B. Hunt) have the strongest private-sector job growth. University towns like Bozeman and Burlington offer steady education and healthcare employment.

Are these small towns good for remote workers?

Yes. Bend, Bozeman, and Chattanooga in particular attract remote workers thanks to outdoor access and, in Chattanooga's case, citywide gigabit fiber internet. Confirm broadband speed at any specific address before committing.

Which town is best for outdoor recreation?

Bozeman, Montana leads for outdoor access with skiing, fly-fishing, and proximity to Yellowstone. Bend, Oregon and Asheville, North Carolina are close behind with mountain biking, skiing, and hiking.

What is the median home price in Bozeman, Montana?

The median home price in Bozeman is roughly $650,000, which is high for the region. Rents for a two-bedroom run around $1,900 a month. Montana has no state sales tax, which offsets some of the housing cost.

Is Asheville, North Carolina safe from natural disasters?

Asheville faces flood risk, particularly in areas along the French Broad River, as seen after Hurricane Helene. Buyers should note that flood-prone river areas carry added insurance costs. The town has recovered and rebuilt infrastructure through 2025 and 2026.

What is the cost of living in Fayetteville, Arkansas?

The cost of living in Fayetteville runs below the national average, with a median home price around $330,000. The University of Arkansas drives jobs, and the broader metro hosts Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt corporate offices, making it a great value.

Which small town has the best internet connectivity?

Chattanooga, Tennessee built one of the country's first citywide gigabit fiber networks, operated by EPB. This municipal fiber network is among the fastest residential internet available anywhere, making it ideal for remote workers and tech-dependent businesses.

What are the tax benefits of living in Sioux Falls, South Dakota?

South Dakota has no state income tax, which is a major benefit for residents. The median home price is about $330,000, and major employers include Sanford Health and Avera Health, plus a strong financial-services sector. This makes Sioux Falls very tax-friendly.

Is Boise, Idaho a good place for tech workers?

Yes, Boise's smaller communities like Eagle and Meridian offer big-city access with a quieter feel. Micron Technology and HP anchor tech jobs, and the metro has been one of the fastest-growing in the country. However, median home prices in Eagle run $700,000-plus.

Sources

flowchart TD S["10 Best Small Towns to Live in America"] S --> N0["1. Bozeman, Montana"] N0 --> N1["2. Fayetteville, Arkansas"] N1 --> N2["3. Asheville, North Carolina"] N2 --> N3["4. Bend, Oregon"]

flowchart LR C["10 Best Small Towns to Live in America"] C --> H0["8. Chattanooga, Tennessee"] C --> H1["9. Burlington, Vermont"] C --> H2["10. Greenville, South Carolina"] C --> H3["How we ranked these"]

Related on PULSE

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## Direct Answer

The 10 best small towns to live in america are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Bozeman, Montana

![10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/tn0135-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["10 Best Small Towns to Live in America"]
  S --> N0["1. Bozeman, Montana"]
  N0 --> N1["2. Fayetteville, Arkansas"]
  N1 --> N2["3. Asheville, North Carolina"]
  N2 --> N3["4. Bend, Oregon"]
```


Bozeman ranks first because it uniquely combines a real economy, a commercial airport, and unmatched outdoor access. Montana State University anchors employment alongside a growing tech and photonics cluster, while the median home price sits near $650,000. Rents for a two-bedroom run around $1,900 monthly, and the town has no state sales tax. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport offers direct flights to major hubs, a rarity for a town this size.

This town is for remote workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families who can absorb the high housing cost. Skiing at Bridger Bowl and Big Sky, trout fishing on the Madison and Gallatin rivers, and hiking in the Bridger Range are all within reach. The downside is growth pressure: traffic and prices have climbed sharply since 2020, and winter heating bills are steep. Even so, the research university and Yellowstone proximity keep it the strongest all-around pick.


## 2. Fayetteville, Arkansas

![10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/tn0135-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["10 Best Small Towns to Live in America"]
  C --> H0["8. Chattanooga, Tennessee"]
  C --> H1["9. Burlington, Vermont"]
  C --> H2["10. Greenville, South Carolina"]
  C --> H3["How we ranked these"]
```


Fayetteville ranks second as the best value, pairing a median home price near $330,000 with genuine corporate job security. The University of Arkansas drives employment, and the broader metro hosts Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt corporate offices. The cost of living runs below the national average, and a growing trail network includes over 40 miles of paved greenway. It offers mountain-biking culture that rivals Colorado at a fraction of the price.

This town suits young professionals, families, and anyone priced out of coastal markets. Northwest Arkansas has invested heavily in culture, including the free Crystal Bridges Museum in nearby Bentonville. Razorback sports draw the whole region, and the regional airport (XNA) offers direct flights to major hubs. Compared to Bozeman above, Fayetteville trades dramatic mountain scenery for far lower housing costs and equally steady employment.


## 3. Asheville, North Carolina

![10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/tn0135-b3.jpg)


Asheville ranks third for its dense arts scene, craft breweries, and mild four-season climate in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The median home price is around $450,000, higher than much of the Southeast due to sustained demand. The economy leans on tourism, healthcare through Mission Hospital, and a strong small-business community. The town recovered through 2025 and 2026 from Hurricane Helene flooding, with rebuilt infrastructure along the French Broad River.

This town fits creatives, retirees, and remote workers who want walkable downtown density and immediate mountain access. The Blue Ridge Parkway runs right past town for hiking and fall color, and the Biltmore Estate anchors historic tourism. Compared to Fayetteville above, Asheville offers more cultural cachet and scenic drama but carries a higher price tag and flood risk. Buyers should budget for added insurance costs in river-adjacent areas.


## 4. Bend, Oregon

![10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/tn0135-b4.jpg)


Bend ranks fourth for its dry east-side Cascade location with more than 300 days of sun a year and immediate access to skiing at Mt. Bachelor. The median home price is roughly $640,000, reflecting its popularity, and Oregon has no sales tax. The Deschutes River runs through town, and the economy blends outdoor-recreation brands, breweries, and a growing remote-work population. The vibrant downtown offers a strong restaurant and craft-beer scene.

This town suits outdoor lovers and remote professionals with strong incomes who prioritize sunshine and recreation. Compared to Asheville above, Bend offers drier weather and better skiing but a higher median home price and a more isolated location. The trade-off is a smaller cultural scene and fewer direct flight options. Buyers should expect competitive bidding and plan for wildfire-season awareness in the surrounding forests.


## 5. Sioux Falls, South Dakota

![10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/tn0135-b5.jpg)


Sioux Falls ranks fifth for affordability, healthcare jobs, and tax friendliness, with a median home price near $330,000 and no state income tax. Major employers include Sanford Health and Avera Health, plus a strong financial-services sector thanks to favorable banking laws. The unemployment rate is consistently among the lowest in the nation, and Falls Park anchors a revitalized downtown. Citibank, Wells Fargo, and other lenders run large operations here.

This town fits families, healthcare workers, and financial-sector professionals seeking low taxes and job security. Compared to Bend above, Sioux Falls offers far lower housing costs and a stronger job market but lacks mountain recreation and mild weather. Winters are genuinely cold, though the downtown has transformed with restaurants and sculpture-lined paths. The trade-off is a flat landscape and fewer outdoor adventure options within a short drive.


## 6. Traverse City, Michigan

![10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/tn0135-b6.jpg)


Traverse City ranks sixth for waterfront living on Grand Traverse Bay, surrounded by cherry orchards and wineries. The median home price is around $400,000, and the summer economy thrives on tourism while year-round jobs come from Munson Healthcare and a growing tech presence. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is 30 minutes away, offering world-class shoreline scenery. The charming downtown is packed with restaurants, boutiques, and a working waterfront.

This town suits boaters, food-and-wine lovers, and seasonal-business owners who can weather the tourism cycle. Compared to Sioux Falls above, Traverse City offers far superior natural beauty and a more vibrant summer scene but has a higher cost of living and a more seasonal economy. Winters are long and snowy, though they bring skiing and winter festivals. The trade-off is a smaller year-round job market and a heavier reliance on hospitality employment.


## 7. Eagle, Idaho

![10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 7](/assets/qa/tn0135-b7.jpg)


Eagle ranks seventh for big-city access with a quieter small-town feel, sitting in the fast-growing Boise metro. The median home price runs $700,000-plus, with nearby Meridian closer to $500,000, reflecting newer housing stock and high demand. Micron Technology and HP anchor tech jobs, and the Boise River greenbelt links the region. Idaho has a flat 5.695% income tax, which offsets some of the tax advantages of other states.

This town fits tech workers and families willing to pay for newer construction and proximity to Boise's amenities. Compared to Traverse City above, Eagle offers a stronger tech job market and drier climate but far less natural water access and a higher price point. The Boise metro has been one of the fastest-growing in the country, bringing traffic and construction. The trade-off is a suburban feel rather than a historic downtown core.


## 8. Chattanooga, Tennessee

![10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 8](/assets/qa/tn0135-b8.jpg)


Chattanooga ranks eighth for affordability, fast internet, and outdoor recreation, with a median home price near $340,000 and no state income tax. The city built one of the country's first citywide gigabit fiber networks, drawing remote workers, and Volkswagen's only US assembly plant anchors manufacturing. The Tennessee Riverwalk runs 16 miles, and the revitalized downtown features an aquarium and riverfront parks.

This town suits remote workers, manufacturing employees, and climbers who want low costs and high-speed connectivity. Compared to Eagle above, Chattanooga offers a much lower median home price and a more established downtown, but a smaller tech sector. The EPB municipal fiber network is among the fastest residential internet available anywhere in the country. The trade-off is a hotter, more humid summer climate and fewer mountain-town amenities within walking distance.


## 9. Burlington, Vermont

![10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 9](/assets/qa/tn0135-b9.jpg)


Burlington ranks ninth for lakefront living on Lake Champlain with the Adirondacks across the water and the Green Mountains to the east. The median home price is around $500,000, and the cost of living is high for the region. The University of Vermont and its medical center anchor jobs, and the Church Street Marketplace is a pedestrian downtown core. The town offers strong walkability and progressive amenities in a compact footprint.

This town fits academics, healthcare workers, and four-season outdoor people who value a tight-knit community. Compared to Chattanooga above, Burlington offers superior lake and mountain scenery and a more walkable downtown, but a higher cost of living and a colder, snowier winter. The trade-off is a smaller job market outside of education and healthcare. The state's high taxes are offset by a strong sense of place and easy access to skiing and hiking.


## 10. Greenville, South Carolina

![10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027 — figure 10](/assets/qa/tn0135-b10.jpg)


Greenville ranks tenth for downtown energy, manufacturing jobs, and Southern affordability, with a median home price near $340,000. The city transformed its downtown around the Reedy River and Falls Park, becoming a model of small-city revitalization. BMW's largest global plant sits nearby in Spartanburg, and Michelin's North American headquarters is in town. The Swamp Rabbit Trail runs 22 miles, connecting neighborhoods and parks.

This town suits families and auto-industry professionals who want a vibrant downtown without coastal prices. Compared to Burlington above, Greenville offers a warmer climate, a stronger manufacturing base, and a lower median home price, but lacks a large lake and mountain views. The downtown is dense with restaurants, shops, and a popular park with a suspension bridge. The trade-off is a more car-dependent layout and a less distinct seasonal identity.


## How we ranked these

This ranking measured five weighted factors: cost of living (30%), job growth and economic stability (25%), safety and crime rates (20%), healthcare access and quality (15%), and quality-of-life amenities such as outdoor recreation, culture, and walkability (10%). Data came from Census Bureau estimates, Zillow home values, BLS employment figures, and local crime statistics.

We deliberately ignored subjective factors like political climate, school ratings beyond basic availability, and personal lifestyle preferences such as nightlife or religious community. These are impossible to rank objectively and vary too much by individual. We also excluded towns with populations over 250,000 to maintain a small-town focus, and we did not factor in climate change projections or long-term environmental risks beyond known flood zones.

## Related questions

### What is the best small town in America for outdoor recreation?

Bozeman, Montana ranks first for outdoor access, offering skiing at Bridger Bowl and Big Sky, fly-fishing on the Madison and Gallatin rivers, and hiking in the Bridger Range. Its proximity to Yellowstone National Park adds unmatched wilderness opportunities, making it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

### Which small town has the lowest cost of living?

Fayetteville, Arkansas and Sioux Falls, South Dakota both have median home prices around $330,000. Fayetteville benefits from a below-average cost of living and no state income tax pressure on retirees, while Sioux Falls offers no state income tax at all, making both highly affordable.

### What small town is best for remote workers?

Chattanooga, Tennessee stands out for remote workers due to its citywide gigabit fiber network, one of the fastest residential internet services in the country. Bend, Oregon and Bozeman, Montana also attract remote workers with their outdoor lifestyles and reliable broadband, but Chattanooga's infrastructure gives it an edge.

### Which small town has the strongest job market?

The Fayetteville-Bentonville corridor in Arkansas has a robust job market anchored by Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt. Boise, Idaho also excels with tech employers like Micron and HP, while Chattanooga benefits from Volkswagen's only US assembly plant.

### Are there small towns with no state income tax?

Yes, Sioux Falls, South Dakota and Chattanooga, Tennessee both have no state income tax. This can significantly reduce your tax burden, especially for high earners. However, consider that these states may have higher sales taxes or property taxes to compensate.

### What is the best small town for families?

Fayetteville, Arkansas is excellent for families due to its low cost of living, strong job market, and extensive trail network. Sioux Falls, South Dakota also offers low crime, good schools, and family-friendly amenities like Falls Park, making both top choices for raising children.

### Which small town has the best healthcare?

Sioux Falls, South Dakota is a regional healthcare hub, with Sanford Health and Avera Health as major employers. Burlington, Vermont also has strong healthcare through the University of Vermont Medical Center. These towns offer better access to specialists than many other small towns.

### What is the most walkable small town?

Burlington, Vermont features the Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only downtown core, making it highly walkable. Asheville, North Carolina also has a dense, walkable downtown with restaurants and galleries. Both are ideal for those who prefer to live without a car.

## FAQ

**What is the most affordable small town on this list?**

Fayetteville, Arkansas and Sioux Falls, South Dakota tie for the best value, both with median home prices near $330,000. Sioux Falls adds no state income tax, while Fayetteville pairs low housing with real corporate jobs from Walmart and Tyson.

**Which small towns have the best job markets?**

Boise (Micron, HP), Chattanooga (Volkswagen), and the Fayetteville-Bentonville corridor (Walmart, Tyson, J.B. Hunt) have the strongest private-sector job growth. University towns like Bozeman and Burlington offer steady education and healthcare employment.

**Are these small towns good for remote workers?**

Yes. Bend, Bozeman, and Chattanooga in particular attract remote workers thanks to outdoor access and, in Chattanooga's case, citywide gigabit fiber internet. Confirm broadband speed at any specific address before committing.

**Which town is best for outdoor recreation?**

Bozeman, Montana leads for outdoor access with skiing, fly-fishing, and proximity to Yellowstone. Bend, Oregon and Asheville, North Carolina are close behind with mountain biking, skiing, and hiking.

**What is the median home price in Bozeman, Montana?**

The median home price in Bozeman is roughly $650,000, which is high for the region. Rents for a two-bedroom run around $1,900 a month. Montana has no state sales tax, which offsets some of the housing cost.

**Is Asheville, North Carolina safe from natural disasters?**

Asheville faces flood risk, particularly in areas along the French Broad River, as seen after Hurricane Helene. Buyers should note that flood-prone river areas carry added insurance costs. The town has recovered and rebuilt infrastructure through 2025 and 2026.

**What is the cost of living in Fayetteville, Arkansas?**

The cost of living in Fayetteville runs below the national average, with a median home price around $330,000. The University of Arkansas drives jobs, and the broader metro hosts Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt corporate offices, making it a great value.

**Which small town has the best internet connectivity?**

Chattanooga, Tennessee built one of the country's first citywide gigabit fiber networks, operated by EPB. This municipal fiber network is among the fastest residential internet available anywhere, making it ideal for remote workers and tech-dependent businesses.

**What are the tax benefits of living in Sioux Falls, South Dakota?**

South Dakota has no state income tax, which is a major benefit for residents. The median home price is about $330,000, and major employers include Sanford Health and Avera Health, plus a strong financial-services sector. This makes Sioux Falls very tax-friendly.

**Is Boise, Idaho a good place for tech workers?**

Yes, Boise's smaller communities like Eagle and Meridian offer big-city access with a quieter feel. Micron Technology and HP anchor tech jobs, and the metro has been one of the fastest-growing in the country. However, median home prices in Eagle run $700,000-plus.

## Sources

- https://www.census.gov/quickfacts
- https://www.zillow.com/home-values/
- https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/rankings
- https://www.bls.gov/eag/
- https://taxfoundation.org/state-tax-structure/
- https://www.realtor.com/research/
- https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/

## Related on PULSE

- [More small towns to live in america rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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10 Best Small Towns to Live in America in 2027

1. Bozeman, Montana

2. Fayetteville, Arkansas

3. Asheville, North Carolina

4. Bend, Oregon

5. Sioux Falls, South Dakota

6. Traverse City, Michigan

7. Eagle, Idaho

8. Chattanooga, Tennessee

9. Burlington, Vermont

10. Greenville, South Carolina

How we ranked these

Related questions

What is the best small town in America for outdoor recreation?

Which small town has the lowest cost of living?

What small town is best for remote workers?

Which small town has the strongest job market?

Are there small towns with no state income tax?

What is the best small town for families?

Which small town has the best healthcare?

What is the most walkable small town?

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