Dupage Policy Journal

Naperville, IL has been declared the "No. 1 Best City to Raise a Family in America" by Niche on Mar. 21. 

Niche is a website that reports facts on the best education, K-12, colleges, and grade schools throughout the nation. For the last nine years, the company has analyzed 228 cities and 17,932 towns and neighborhoods. Yet, Naperville has held its ranking.

According to Niche, Naperville is a grade-A choice in the category of "Public Schools" after earning the distinction for the seventh consecutive year. In addition, to categories such as "Health & Fitness" and "Good for Families." 

With a population inching 150,000 people, Naperville offers recreation for its' residents and visitors such as restaurants, shops, and parks. It's suggested that Naperville is home to families and professionals. 

The Median Household Income is ranked an A- a score based off of employment rates, job, and business growth. The median income is $135,772 beating the national of $69,021. 

However, Naperville received a C grade based on the city's "Cost of Living" and "Weather" categories.

Although home purchases are more prevalent, the median total for the home value is $433,400. Of all residents, 75 percent own their home in Naperville.

While the remaining 25 percent are renters who pay an average of $1,645 each month.

The category of "Crime & Safety" was ranked a B- including violent and property crimes. The most common violent crime in Naperville is assault, which was ranked 33.5 percent of the national 282.7. While theft is the most popular property crime at 1,041 of the national 2,042.8.

In 2023, Naperville was ranked No. 4 of the Best Cities to Live in America. It had fallen from No. 3, the spot it held from 2020-2022. Lastly, Naperville ranked the No. 2 city in 2017 and 2018.

Overall, Naperville is a promising city for families to live in as reported by Niche. 

“Living in Naperville offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes,” Niche reported.