U.S. News & World Report’s Best Places to Live in Ohio: A Spotlight on Mentor and Parma
CLEVELAND — Let the debate begin throughout Northeast Ohio! U.S. News & World Report recently announced its rankings for the best places to live in the state, and Mentor has proudly claimed the top spot for 2025-26, with Parma close behind at No. 2. This recognition has ignited conversations among residents and city officials alike.
A Comprehensive Evaluation
U.S. News & World Report evaluated over 850 cities—an increase from just 150 in previous assessments—whittling it down to the top 250 for its 2025-2026 Best Places to Live in the U.S. list. Mentor secured the 138th spot nationally, while Parma came in at 157th, indicating a strong showing for Ohio cities in a competitive field. This ranking is more than just a number; it reflects the qualities that make these communities desirable for families and individuals alike.
Insights from Local Leadership
Mentor City Manager Kenneth J. Filipiak expressed pride in the city’s recognition, stating, “We’re honored to be recognized as one of the premier communities in the nation to live and raise a family by U.S. News & World Report. While this is no secret to our residents, it’s always nice to be evaluated so favorably by an objective and very credible publication.” His sentiments resonate with the city’s residents, who have long touted Mentor’s quality of life and community spirit.
The Criteria Behind the Rankings
So how did U.S. News & World Report formulate this prestigious list? The publication employed a robust methodology that involved an analysis of public data and user opinions. According to their criteria, cities are scored based on four main factors: value, desirability, job market, and quality of life.
To ensure a comprehensive assessment, these criteria were weighted based on feedback from thousands of individuals surveyed across the U.S. This highlights the qualities that potential residents consider most important when selecting a place to call home. U.S. News drew upon an extensive range of data sources, including U.S. government agencies like the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Census Bureau, as well as evaluations from Applied Geographic Solutions.
The Top Cities in Ohio
The rankings have stirred excitement throughout the state, showcasing Mentor and Parma as standout locations. Here’s a complete list of U.S. News & World Report’s "Best Places to Live" in Ohio:
- Mentor
- Parma
- Columbus
- Hamilton
- Lima
- Springfield
- Lorain
- Mansfield
- Sandusky
- Akron
- Dayton
- Cincinnati
- Toledo
- Youngstown
- Canton
- Cleveland
This lineup offers a diverse range of options for those considering a move to Ohio, with each city presenting unique characteristics and community vibes.
National Comparison: The Best Places to Live in the U.S.
In addition to Ohio’s rankings, U.S. News unveiled its national top 10 list for the best places to live. Dominating this list are cities that blend vibrant communities with favorable living conditions. Here are the top ten nationally:
- Johns Creek, Georgia
- Carmel, Indiana
- Pearland, Texas
- Fishers, Indiana
- Cary, North Carolina
- League City, Texas
- Apex, North Carolina
- Leander, Texas
- Rochester Hills, Michigan
- Troy, Michigan
These cities have proven to be popular choices for their rich amenities, economic opportunities, and overall quality of life, further illustrating the varying landscapes of desirable living conditions across the nation.
Emphasizing Community Values
The rankings published by U.S. News & World Report not only serve as an informative guide for potential movers but also highlight the importance of community values. Mentor and Parma represent not just locations, but thriving ecosystems where family ties, economic vitality, and community spirit flourish. As debates and discussions spark among residents, these rankings will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these cities.
