The Best US City To Live In For 2026 Is A Midwest Suburb With A Walkable Downtown

If you had to guess where the best place to live in the United States would be, where would you start? Many people may picture coastal cities in California or Florida, or perhaps trendy cities like New York or Austin. However, according to U.S. News & World Report, the number one city to live in for 2026 is actually in the Midwestern state of Indiana. But it's not Fort Wayne, the underrated riverfront city offering family-friendly activities. Instead, it's the suburb of Carmel, which sits just north of Indianapolis.

And it's not just one publication that puts Carmel at the top of the list. The website Livability ranked it second on its list of the top 100 places to live for 2026, so it's clear that there's something about the city that makes it so desirable. Notable factors included a relatively low cost of living, a walkable and bikeable downtown, and an impressive arts and culture scene.

But you don't have to be looking for a new place to live to experience Carmel. Knowing that it ranks so highly is more than enough of a reason to add it to your travel list, so let's head to the Midwest and check it out.

Since walkable downtowns are such a rarity in America, let's start our deep dive into Carmel there. This area is also known as the Arts and Design District, thanks to its abundance of art galleries, museums, and public artworks. Although the district spans multiple blocks in all directions, most of the action is centered around Main Street, between 1st Avenue and Monon Boulevard, an area that earned a Walk Score of 88 out of 100.

Some highlights of this district include the Museum of Miniature Houses, which is perfect if you appreciate the skill and detail that goes into dioramas and similar displays, or the Carmel Clay History Museum, which provides insight into the city's history. Or, if you prefer to really get your steps in, you can get on the Monon Greenway, a multi-use walking path that follows the old railroad line cutting through the center of the city. Overall, it stretches for 5 miles and allows you to explore much of the city, either on foot or by bicycle.

Another great reason to experience Carmel's downtown is its dining scene. For a unique experience, stop in Woodys Library Restaurant, which is housed in an original library built in 1913. The menu features salads, sandwiches, and a happy hour, so you can read a new book while sipping on a pint. For an elegant spot, you can walk down Rangeline Road to 1933 Lounge, featuring upscale vintage decor made to look like a posh speakeasy. Finally, since you're in the Midwest, you can dine on comfort food in large portions at Bub's Burgers & Ice Cream. If you finish the restaurant's famous burger, the "Big Ugly," you can get your picture on the wall of fame.

Fortunately, getting to Carmel is easy, as it's only about half an hour north of one of the most traveler-friendly airports in the Midwest, Indianapolis International (IND). The city is also home to many hotels and vacation rentals. However, if you're trying to stay near downtown, the closest option is the Hotel Carmichael, just south of the Arts and Design District. In the winter, Carmel hosts a vibrant Christkindlmarkt next to the Hotel Carmichael, so it's quite convenient. The festival honors the strong German heritage of the region, complete with German-inspired food, crafts, and shows that are fun for all ages. That's why it's considered one of the USA's 10 best December tourist attractions for a winter getaway. 

Although Carmel's downtown area and holiday celebrations are certainly great reasons to visit, the hits don't stop there, especially if you're looking for summer travel plans. The fact is that Carmel has some incredible green spaces for all ages to enjoy. For example, if you love hitting the links, there are six courses in the city, three of which are open to the public. Brookshire Golf Club is actually owned and managed by the city, and you can buy season passes if you plan on returning to Carmel regularly. Or, if you prefer more open-ended natural spaces, check out some of the area's parks. Flowing Well Park is great for fishing in Cool Creek, or you can wander the nature trail. As the name implies, there is an actual well on site, so bring a jug to fill up when you get thirsty. For more thrills, visit The Waterpark, which features a lazy river, tall slides, a surf lagoon, and a rock-climbing wall.