News Summary
Leander, Texas, has been recognized as the 8th best place to live in the U.S. and the 3rd best in Texas according to a recent report. The ranking evaluated 250 cities based on factors such as quality of life, job market, and net migration. With a median household income of $131,822 and a population under 78,000, Leander has become increasingly appealing to residents. Despite its higher housing costs, the city demonstrates a robust economy and strong community appeal, setting itself apart from larger urban areas like Austin.
Leander, Texas has been ranked as the 8th best place to live in the U.S. for the year 2025-2026 by a recent report. The city has also earned the title of the 3rd best place to live in Texas, reflecting its growing appeal among residents and newcomers alike.
This year’s ranking by a reputable organization included an expanded evaluation of 250 cities, up from the previous 150. Factors contributing to the rankings are based on five livability indexes: Quality of life, value, desirability, job market, and net migration. The top three cities in the U.S. included Johns Creek, Georgia at No. 1, Carmel, Indiana at No. 2, and Pearland, Texas at No. 3.
Several aspects contribute to Leander’s favorable ranking. The city boasts a median household income of $131,822, significantly higher than the national average. However, housing costs are also notable, with median home values reaching $493,774, which surpasses the national average home value of $370,489. Despite higher prices, the cost of living in relation to median income suggests a valuable investment for residents.
Leander has a population of less than 78,000 residents, with diverse demographics. Approximately 28% of the residents are under the age of 20, while 38% fall within the 20-44 age bracket. Additionally, almost 25% are between the ages of 45-64, with 11% of residents aged over 65.
The job market remains robust, with an unemployment rate of 3.1%, notably lower than the national average of 4.5%. This appealing economic landscape plays a vital role in attracting new residents. However, public transportation options are limited, with the majority of commuters in Leander, like many in nearby suburbs, relying on personal vehicles for their daily travels. The average commute time in Leander is 28.4 minutes, exceeding the national average by 6.2 minutes.
Leander has been recognized for its strong sense of community, a key aspect that influences individuals’ decisions on where to live. Residents have shown a preference for supportive neighborhoods, further enhancing the city’s charm.
In comparison to other Texas locales, Pflugerville, another suburb in the Austin area, ranked 15th in the U.S. and 5th in Texas, with a median household income of $118,047 and median home values of $441,873. Pflugerville shares similar commuting patterns, with only 1.5% of residents using public transportation.
While Leander continues to shine in rankings, the city of Austin, once a strong contender, has seen a significant decline in its rating, dropping to 164th place in the U.S. and 43rd in Texas. This decline has been attributed to various factors including overpopulation and the loss of its once charming appeal compared to its suburban counterparts such as Leander and Pflugerville.
The recent report underscores the importance of community factors in determining the best places to live, highlighting a shift in residents’ preferences towards suburban living in the Austin area.
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Additional Resources
- CultureMap Austin
- Wikipedia: Leander, Texas
- CBS Austin
- Google Search: Pflugerville
- KVUE
- Google Scholar: Texas Best Places to Live
- The Malaysian Reserve
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Best Places to Live
- World Atlas
- Google News: Fastest Growing Cities in Texas
