Finding the right place to settle down and call home is one of life’s biggest decisions, especially when having a family is in our plans. From access to quality schools and healthcare to safe neighborhoods, parents often weigh dozens of factors before choosing where to put down roots.
To help identify the communities that offer the best overall quality of life for families, WalletHub analyzed 180 U.S. cities and evaluated each one based on affordability, education and child care, health and safety, socio-economic factors, and opportunities for family fun.
According to the report, Orange County’s Irvine ranks as the third-best place in America to raise a family in 2026. The city boasts the second-lowest violent crime rate per capita in the country and the 15th-lowest property crime rate. Irvine also performed exceptionally well in education, ranking among the nation’s leaders for highly rated schools and posting one of the highest high school graduation rates.
Here’s the full list of best places to raise a family in the U.S. in 2026
- Fremont, CA
- Overland Park, KS
- Irvine, CA
- Plano, TX
- Columbia, MD
- Bismarck, ND
- South Burlington, VT
- Charleston, SC
- Seattle, WA
- Boise, ID
What makes Irvine a top spot to raise a family
Irvine is widely regarded as one of the nation’s most successful master-planned communities. The city features an extensive network of parks, trails, and recreational facilities, while maintaining some of the lowest crime rates in California. Its carefully designed neighborhoods and strong public services have helped make it a favorite among families for decades.
Another standout feature is Irvine’s commitment to preserving green space. Roughly one-third of the city is dedicated to parks, open space, and natural habitats, offering residents easy access to hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation.
