Finding the perfect city to raise a family involves considering a number of factors, from tax rates to education, affordability to healthcare. The TechNational has meticulously analyzed data to compile a list of the Top Low-Tax US Cities to Raise a Family in for 2024.
Join us as we unveil the top 10 cities across the United States that offer the ideal combination of financial benefits, quality of life and work-life balance for families.
Key Metrics:
When evaluating cities for family-friendliness and low tax burdens, we considered several key metrics:
- State Taxes: State income tax rates directly impact families' financial well-being. Cities with lower or no state income tax provide families with more disposable income to invest in their children's education, healthcare and overall quality of life.
- Affordability: The cost of living, including housing prices and everyday expenses, significantly affects families' financial stability. Affordable cities allow families to stretch their budgets further, providing access to better housing, education, and healthcare options.
- Education: Access to quality education is paramount for families. We evaluated graduation rates and access to educational resources.
- Healthcare: We considered healthcare accessibility and quality of healthcare facilities to ensure that families have access to comprehensive and reliable healthcare options.
- Crime Rates: We analyzed crime rates, including violent crime and property crime rates, to identify cities with low crime rates and safe communities where families can feel secure and protected.
Some of the key data is presented in the table below:
The Top 10 Low-Tax Cities to Raise a Family In 2024
10) Plano, Texas
With no state income tax and a low cost of living, Plano offers families financial stability and affordability. Top-rated schools, abundant parks and family-friendly neighborhoods make it an ideal choice for raising children.
Home to the headquarters of many Fortune 500 companies, including Toyota, JCPenney and Frito-Lay, the city's strong economy and diverse job market provide parents with ample employment opportunities, while its safe and welcoming community environment ensures a high quality of life for families.
9) Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sioux Falls has both a low unemployment rate and a diverse job market making it an attractive destination for job seekers in various fields. There is no state income tax on wages, providing families with financial peace of mind.
Additionally, Sioux Falls' strong sense of community and Midwestern hospitality creates a welcoming environment for families to build meaningful connections.
8) Frisco, Texas
Frisco is experiencing rapid growth and development, with numerous startups in industries such as technology, healthcare, sports and entertainment. The city's expansive parks and family-oriented community events make it an ideal place to raise children.
Frisco has the highest graduation rates in our list (65.90%), as the city also boasts the Frisco Independent School District, known for its top-rated schools and innovative programs. Frisco offers families a balanced lifestyle and a supportive community environment.
7) Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is an appealing choice for families looking to maximize their earnings and savings. Healthcare and technology are particularly thriving industries in recent years, with major employers including Vanderbilt University Medical Center, HCA Healthcare, Nissan North America and Amazon.
The city's vibrant music scene and outdoor recreational opportunities provide families with endless entertainment and enrichment opportunities.
With safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community, Nashville offers families a welcoming and nurturing environment to raise their children.
6) Jacksonville, Florida
With a relatively low cost of living, Jacksonville offers families financial advantages. The city's beautiful beaches stretch 22 miles along the Atlantic Ocean make it an ideal destination for families seeking outdoor recreation.
Jacksonville's strong economy and excellent schools ensure that families have access to the resources for both high earning potential and promising education opportunities.
5) Boise, Idaho
Idaho's low state income tax (6.925%) makes Boise an attractive option for families seeking an affordable place to live.
The city is surrounded by outdoor recreation opportunities, including skiing, hiking and whitewater rafting, providing families with a high quality of life. Boise's safe neighborhoods and strong sense of civic pride make it an ideal place to raise children.
4) Raleigh, North Carolina
With a relatively low state income tax of 5.25%, Raleigh offers families a location that promises affordability.
As part of the Research Triangle Park, a hub for technology and research companies, Raleigh is a magnet for highly skilled professionals in various fields. The city therefore boasts a strong job market, while its safe neighborhoods make it an ideal destination for families.
3) Austin, Texas
Texas' lack of a state income tax and Austin's thriving economy make it an appealing choice for families seeking financial benefits and opportunities. The city's renowned schools and vibrant arts scene provide families with a high quality of life and a wealth of cultural and educational experiences.
Austin is quickly growing as a tech hub, and the city's diverse neighborhoods and friendly community make it an ideal place for families to put down roots.
2) Salt Lake City, Utah
Utah's low state income tax and affordable housing market make Salt Lake City an attractive destination for families seeking a low-tax location to raise a family. The city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Wasatch Mountains and Great Salt Lake.
Salt Lake City's safe neighborhoods, family-friendly events, and cultural attractions make it an ideal place for families to grow and thrive together.
1) Las Vegas, Nevada
With no state income tax and a relatively low cost of living, Las Vegas is number one on our list of best cities to raise a family in. The city's world-famous attractions, coupled with its diverse job market, make it an attractive destination for those relocating with a family.
The city's world-class entertainment and family-friendly attractions make it an exciting and dynamic destination for families seeking adventure and enrichment.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing the right city to raise a family involves careful consideration of various factors, including access to healthcare, educational opportunities and community amenities. The cities featured on our list offer families the perfect combination of low tax burdens, affordability and quality of life.
Whether you prioritize financial benefits or access to recreational activities, these cities provide families with the resources and support they need to thrive.
