Livability recently released a ranking of the 25 ‘best places to live in the Western U.S.’ and multiple cities in Colorado got a nod, including one that snagged the top spot.

Livability utilized a data-driven approach to create the ranking, comparing 2,000 cities nationwide across dozens of data points that focused on measuring various factors that bolster quality of life, then taking a look at how different places stacked up on a region-by-region basis. Once the numbers were crunched, six Colorado cities landed among the ‘top 25’ spots.

The ‘best place to live’ across the entire American West was determined to be Broomfield, Colorado, ranking first on the list of 25 places and described as a spot that “checks all the boxes.” The local education system, health care-related amenities, diverse housing options, the job market, and ample outdoor recreation were all reported to be factors in its high placement. It was also noted to be a great place to raise a family thanks to nearby attractions like Water World and the Butterfly Pavilion. Plus, its location near Denver and Boulder means the amenities that these two spots offer are never far away.

Also ranking in the top five ‘best places to live in the American West’ were Fort Collins and Castle Rank, ranking fourth and fifth, respectively. The publication pointed to the charm of Fort Collins and its Historic Old Town area that inspired Disneyland’s Main Street USA as reasons to love this city, along with the many local award-winning breweries and a booming economy. Meanwhile, Castle Rocks’ local sense of community was praised, as well as its proximity to open space and its placement between the state’s two largest cities.

Other Colorado spots that made the cut to be included in the ‘top 25’ were Loveland – ranking seventh and described as “quintessentially Colorado cozy,” Aurora – ranking 16th with its diverse cuisine scene given a shoutout, and Colorado Springs – ranking 17th and complimented for its natural beauty and its stunning amount of outdoor recreation opportunities.

Colorado’s six spots among the ‘top 25’ were the most that any state had on the list followed by California, Oregon, and Washington each being home to four cities that made the cut. Additionally, two places in both Idaho and Montana were included, along with one in Alaska, Nevada, and Utah.

Find the full ranking of all 25 spots here.

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