What City Should I Live in? 5 Smart Ways to Decide

Choosing where to live is one of the biggest decisions you can make. The question "what city should I live in?" often feels overwhelming because so many factors come into play—cost of living, job opportunities, lifestyle, climate, and more. I’ve been there, and I know how tricky it can be to narrow down your options. To help you make a confident choice, I’m sharing five practical ways to decide on the best city for you. One of these methods includes a free, easy-to-use quiz from Citymatch that can guide you based on your preferences.

City skyline showing a mix of urban life and nature

1. List Your Priorities and Dealbreakers

Start by writing down what matters most to you in a city. This list will help you filter out places that don’t fit your lifestyle. Think about:

• Job market: Are there industries or companies you want to work for?

• Cost of living: Can you afford rent, groceries, and transportation comfortably?

• Climate: Do you prefer warm weather, four seasons, or something milder?

• Culture and lifestyle: Are you looking for a vibrant nightlife, outdoor activities, or a quiet community?

• Proximity to family and friends: How important is being close to loved ones?

  
  

For example, if you want to work in tech, cities like Austin or Seattle might be good fits. If you love outdoor activities, Denver or Portland could be better choices. By clearly defining your priorities, you’ll have a solid foundation to answer "what city should I live in."

2. Research Cost of Living and Job Opportunities

Once you know your priorities, dig into the numbers. Use websites like Numbeo or Payscale to compare the cost of living and average salaries in different cities. This step is crucial because a high salary in an expensive city might not stretch as far as a moderate salary in a more affordable place.

Look for cities with a strong job market in your field. For example, if you’re in finance, New York or Charlotte might offer more opportunities. If you’re in healthcare, cities with large hospital systems like Boston or Minneapolis could be ideal.

Keep in mind that some cities offer remote work hubs or co-working spaces, which might give you more flexibility in your job search.

3. Visit Potential Cities in Person or Virtually

Nothing beats experiencing a city firsthand. If possible, plan short trips to your top choices. Walk around neighborhoods, visit local shops, and talk to residents. Pay attention to how you feel in the environment. Does the city vibe match your personality?

If travel isn’t an option, use virtual tours, city webcams, and online community forums to get a sense of daily life. Many cities have Facebook groups or Reddit communities where locals share honest insights.

For example, you might discover that a city with a great reputation for nightlife is too noisy for your taste, or a smaller city has a welcoming community that feels like home.

Traffic cones

4. Take The Free Citymatch Quiz!

One of the smartest ways to answer "what city should I live in" is by taking Citymatch’s free quiz. This tool asks you about your preferences in climate, lifestyle, budget, and career goals. Based on your answers, it suggests cities that fit your profile in a personalized report.

Citymatch's free quiz is quick and easy, making it a great starting point if you feel stuck. It can introduce you to cities you might not have considered and help you focus your research.

Using Citymatch’s free personalized report alongside your own research gives you a balanced approach—combining data with personal preferences.

5. Consider Long-Term Growth and Lifestyle Changes

Think about where you want to be in five or ten years. Some cities are growing rapidly and offer new opportunities, while others provide stability and a slower pace of life. Ask yourself:

• Will this city support your career growth?

• Does it have good schools or amenities if you plan to start a family?

• How easy is it to build a social network or community?

• Are there options for hobbies and interests you want to pursue?

  
  

For example, a city like Raleigh is known for its growing tech scene and family-friendly neighborhoods. On the other hand, a city like New Orleans offers rich culture and history but might not have the same job growth in certain industries.

Thinking long-term helps you avoid moving twice in a short period and ensures your new city fits your evolving needs.