The best places to live in the US [SLIDESHOW]

While many enjoy the hustle and bustle of the big city, sometimes, the best places to live are slightly off the beaten path. Though some will always feel at home in cities such as New York and Los Angeles, smaller cities with populations between 30,000 and 50,000 such as Bellevue, Washington and Irvine, California are becoming more appealing for people looking to settle down.

Money Magazine recently released a list of the best places to live in America based on a number of criteria including median family income, crime scores, housing affordability, diversity, and other economic factors.

Additionally, the magazine visited towns to assess traffic, parks, and intangible factors such as community spirit.

So if you’re looking to move out of the big city, check out the top 10 smaller alternatives: