Top 10 Small Cities by Data
- Igotta Begass
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
Finding the perfect place to call home means balancing multiple factors: safety, affordability, growth potential, and tax advantages. For those seeking the sweet spot of mid-size city living without the burden of state income taxes, certain communities across America stand out as exceptional choices.
These destinations offer the best of both worlds: enough amenities and opportunities to thrive, without the overcrowding and high costs of major metropolitan areas. More importantly, they're located in states that don't tax your hard-earned wages, allowing you to keep more money in your pocket for the things that matter most.
1. Plano, Texas
Population: 285,000
Plano consistently ranks among America's safest cities, with violent crime rates well below the national average. This Dallas suburb offers excellent schools, robust job opportunities in tech and healthcare, and home values that have appreciated steadily over the past decade. The median home price sits around $450,000, with strong resale potential driven by the area's continued corporate relocations and population growth.
The city's strategic location provides easy access to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and downtown Dallas, while maintaining a suburban feel with extensive parks and recreational facilities. Major employers like Toyota North America and Liberty Mutual have established headquarters here, creating a stable economic foundation.
. Henderson, Nevada
Population: 320,000
Located just outside Las Vegas, Henderson offers the perfect blend of urban amenities and suburban tranquility. The city boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Nevada and has earned recognition as one of the safest cities in America. Home values have shown impressive resilience and growth, with median prices around $400,000.
Henderson's master-planned communities and proximity to recreational areas like Lake Las Vegas make it particularly attractive to families and retirees. The absence of state income tax, combined with relatively low property taxes, creates significant savings for residents. The city's diverse economy, anchored by healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism, provides stability even during economic fluctuations.
3. Franklin, Tennessee
Population: 85,000
This charming city south of Nashville combines small-town appeal with big-city opportunities. Franklin maintains extremely low crime rates while offering historic downtown charm and modern amenities. The housing market here has been exceptionally strong, with homes appreciating at rates above the national average.
Tennessee's lack of state income tax on wages makes Franklin particularly attractive to professionals working in Nashville's booming healthcare, music, and tech industries. The city's excellent schools, historic sites, and proximity to Nashville's cultural offerings create a compelling package for families and young professionals alike.
. Sugar Land, Texas
Population: 95,000
Consistently ranked among the safest cities in Texas, Sugar Land offers an exceptional quality of life in the Houston metropolitan area. The city's crime rates are remarkably low, and its schools rank among the state's best. Home values have shown strong appreciation, with median prices around $350,000.
The area's economy benefits from Houston's energy sector while maintaining its own identity as a family-friendly community. Sugar Land's master-planned neighborhoods, extensive park system, and cultural facilities make it a standout choice for those seeking suburban excellence without state income tax burden.
5. Bellevue, Washington
Population: 150,000
Located across Lake Washington from Seattle, Bellevue combines Pacific Northwest beauty with economic opportunity. Despite Washington's higher cost of living, the absence of state income tax provides significant savings for residents. The city maintains low crime rates and offers excellent schools and amenities.
Home values in Bellevue have appreciated substantially, driven by the presence of major employers like Microsoft, Amazon, and T-Mobile. While initial home prices are higher than other locations on this list (median around $800,000), the strong job market and continued growth make it an attractive long-term investment.
6. Collierville, Tennessee
Population: 51,000
This Memphis suburb offers small-town charm with big-city accessibility. Collierville boasts extremely low crime rates and has maintained its historic town square while accommodating modern growth. Home values have shown steady appreciation, with median prices around $300,000.
The combination of Tennessee's tax advantages, excellent schools, and proximity to Memphis's medical and logistics industries makes Collierville particularly attractive to families and professionals. The town's commitment to preserving its character while embracing growth creates a unique living environment.
Katy, Texas
Population: 25,000
Though smaller than some entries on this list, Katy punches above its weight in terms of amenities and opportunities. The city maintains very low crime rates and is renowned for its excellent schools. Home values have appreciated consistently, benefiting from Houston's economic growth.
Katy's location in the Houston energy corridor provides abundant job opportunities while maintaining a distinct community identity. The absence of state income tax, combined with reasonable property taxes and strong schools, makes it particularly attractive to families and young professionals.
8. Brentwood, Tennessee
Population: 45,000
Another Nashville suburb that exemplifies Tennessee's appeal to those seeking tax advantages without sacrificing quality of life. Brentwood offers exceptionally low crime rates, excellent schools, and strong home appreciation. The median home price around $600,000 reflects the area's desirability and growth potential.
The city's proximity to Nashville's healthcare and music industries, combined with its own business-friendly environment, creates diverse economic opportunities. Brentwood's commitment to maintaining green spaces and community amenities while accommodating growth makes it a standout choice.
9. The Woodlands, Texas
Population: 115,000
This master-planned community north of Houston represents modern suburban planning at its finest. Crime rates remain well below national averages, and the community's design emphasizes both safety and livability. Home values have shown strong appreciation, with median prices around $400,000.
The Woodlands' unique forest setting, combined with extensive recreational facilities and proximity to Houston's job market, creates an exceptional living environment. The community's corporate center hosts numerous businesses, reducing commute times and enhancing local economic stability.
Secure economy
Sarasota, Florida
Population: 58,000
While smaller than other cities on this list, Sarasota offers unique advantages as a Gulf Coast destination. The city maintains relatively low crime rates and has seen strong home value appreciation, particularly in its downtown and bayfront areas. Median home prices hover around $400,000.
Florida's absence of state income tax, combined with Sarasota's cultural amenities, beaches, and year-round recreational opportunities, make it particularly attractive to retirees and remote workers. The city's arts scene, healthcare facilities, and tourist economy provide diverse opportunities for residents and investors.
Making Your Decision
When evaluating these destinations, consider factors beyond the basic criteria. Look at job market trends in your industry, school quality if you have children, healthcare facilities, and recreational opportunities that match your lifestyle preferences.
Each of these communities offers the financial advantage of no state income tax while providing the safety, growth potential, and quality of life that make them attractive long-term choices. Whether you're seeking career opportunities, retirement destinations, or investment potential, these mid-size cities deliver the perfect balance of benefits without the drawbacks of larger metropolitan areas.
For those considering relocation or investment opportunities, Dependable Brokers can help connect you with local resources and professionals who understand these markets intimately.
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