Money

Portland beat other major urban centers for putting a premium on green space, providing cultural and entertainment opportunities and having an accessible city center. The editor's note: "Portlanders are deeply passionate about their city--and rightly so." They pointed out that the city has successfully transformed from an old-tech timber town to a high-tech hub with more than 1,200 technology companies, making it one of the best job markets in the nation. The city currently ranks in the top 20% of US metro areas for job growth and that reportedly is expected to increase by 26% over the next decade.

The report compared the city to San Francisco, without the hassles and high cost of living, but noted that there's more that makes it a great place to live. While Portland is not the least expensive place in the country, with the median cost for a single-family home at $165,700 and a low multifamily vacancy rate that has pushed rents upward, its merits outweigh its pressures. Money editors say that what makes the city special is its ease in getting around--walking or using public transportation--cultural opportunities, fabulous restaurants and nightlife, as well as the location's natural beauty.