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Atlanta skyline from Piedmont Park
Source: Paul Thompson / Getty

Atlanta has been recognized as the second-best city to live in the United States, according to the 2025 Global Liveability Index, as reported by Forbes. This ranking highlights Atlanta’s growing appeal as a vibrant, livable city with a strong quality of life.

Why Atlanta Stands Out

Ranked 29th globally, Atlanta shines as a hub of culture, innovation, and opportunity. The city boasts a thriving economy, a rich history, and a diverse population that contributes to its dynamic atmosphere. Its strong performance in education and infrastructure, as noted in the report, underscores its commitment to providing residents with a high standard of living.

A City of Opportunities

Atlanta’s reputation as a business and cultural center continues to grow. Home to major corporations, a burgeoning tech scene, and a thriving arts community, the city offers a wealth of opportunities for professionals and creatives alike. Its affordability compared to other major U.S. cities also makes it an attractive option for families and young professionals.

Challenges and Room for Growth

While Atlanta ranks highly, the report also highlights challenges faced by U.S. cities, including social unrest and gun violence, which impact overall stability. However, Atlanta’s resilience and ongoing efforts to address these issues demonstrate its potential for continued improvement.

A Bright Future

As Atlanta continues to evolve, its recognition as one of the best places to live in the U.S. is a testament to its progress and promise. Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant culture, economic opportunities, or welcoming community, Atlanta is a city that offers something for everyone.

Best Cities to Live in the U.S. (2025)

According to the 2025 Global Liveability Index, these are the top 10 cities in the U.S.:

  1. Honolulu, Hawaii
  2. Atlanta, Georgia
  3. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
  4. Seattle, Washington
  5. Washington, D.C.
  6. Miami, Florida (tie)
  7. Portland, Oregon (tie)
  8. Chicago, Illinois
  9. Indianapolis, Indiana (tie)
  10. Charlotte, North Carolina (tie)

Globally, these are the top 20 cities ranked by the Global Liveability Index:

  1. Copenhagen, Denmark
  2. Vienna, Austria (tie)
  3. Zurich, Switzerland (tie)
  4. Melbourne, Australia
  5. Geneva, Switzerland
  6. Sydney, Australia
  7. Osaka, Japan (tie)
  8. Auckland, New Zealand (tie)
  9. Adelaide, Australia
  10. Vancouver, Canada
  11. Luxembourg
  12. Toronto, Canada
  13. Helsinki, Finland
  14. Tokyo, Japan
  15. Perth, Australia
  16. Brisbane, Australia
  17. Frankfurt, Germany
  18. Calgary, Canada
  19. Amsterdam, Netherlands
  20. Wellington, New Zealand

These rankings reflect a combination of factors such as stability, healthcare, education, culture, and infrastructure.