25 Best Small Towns to Raise a Family In That Are in Close Proximity to Big Cities

Are you yearning for a slower pace of life, where the community spirit is strong, and the open spaces are plentiful? Do you dream of a place where your children can roam freely, build lasting friendships, and enjoy a quality of life that’s often hard to find in bustling cities? If so, then small-town living is what you’re looking for.

Imagine a place where everybody knows everybody, where the crime rates are low, and where the schools offer an excellent education. Picture a town with room to breathe yet plenty of activities and amenities to keep both parents and kids occupied. These idyllic locations aren’t just the stuff of dreams; they exist in reality in our beautiful country. Stacker got data from Niche, a ranking and review site, that looked at various factors, including public schools, jobs, and cost of living. Only towns with a population under 5,000 were considered. These metrics uncovered the best small towns to raise a family in. If you’re considering starting a family or looking for a new place to call him, consider these 25 stellar towns.

25. South Russell, Ohio

-Population: 3,962
– Location: Suburb of Cleveland, OH

South Russell, Ohio, located at the western edge of Geauga County, is a charming village in the Cleveland metropolitan area. Home to approximately 4,000 residents, this suburb is recognized as one of Ohio’s best places to live. The town spans an area of 4 miles long by 1 mile wide. The town is close to many parks, Stacker notes. The prairie trails at Frohring Meadows and historic sandstone ledges in the West Woods are just a stone’s throw away.

24. Bradford Woods, Pennsylvania

-Population: 1,226
– Location: Suburb of Pittsburgh, PA

Bradford Woods, Pennsylvania, is a small borough nestled in Allegheny County. This Pittsburgh suburb offers residents a mix of suburban and rural living, making it one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania. Bradford Woods, incorporated in 1915, is known for its strong community spirit, evident in its active local government and engaged citizens. The town features a variety of homes for sale, catering to diverse real estate needs. It also boasts beautiful green spaces for outdoor activities such as birding, short hikes, and fishing, with the Bradford Woods Reserve being a notable local attraction.

23. Essex Fells, New Jersey

-Population: 2,270
– Location: Suburb in New Jersey

Essex Fells, New Jersey, is a charming borough nestled in Essex County. This suburb of New York City offers an idyllic, small-town atmosphere often likened to a “Norman Rockwell” painting. With top-ranked public schools like Essex Fells School, the town provides excellent educational opportunities for its residents. Beyond its quiet residential areas, the borough hosts various community events, enhancing its friendly and welcoming environment.

Harrington Park, New Jersey

-Population: 4,801
– Location: Suburb in New Jersey

Harrington Park is a charming town located in Bergen County in New Jersey. This idyllic town is well-loved for its peaceful atmosphere and welcoming community, making it one of the best places to live in the county. The borough boasts plenty of green spaces for exploration and relaxation. Harrington Park also has a robust education system, with the Harrington Park School District leading the way in providing quality education to its students.

21. Brookville, New York

-Population: 2,937
– Location: Suburb of New York City, NY

Brookville is a serene village in the Town of Oyster Bay in Nassau County on the North Shore of Long Island, New York. Known for its suburban charm, Brookville has a population of approximately 2,937 residents and is considered one of the best places to live in New York. Getting into the city from Brookville is extremely easy, which feels like a world away.

20. Tower Lakes, Illinois

-Population: 1,340
– Location: Suburb of Chicago, IL

Tower Lakes is a charming village located in the southwest corner of Lake County, Illinois. The village, which was incorporated in 1966, has a rich history dating back to its first permanent settler, Hugh Davlin, in 1836. Tower Lakes offers a suburban lifestyle with a close-knit community fee.

19. East Williston, New York

-Population: 2,637
– Location: Suburb of New York City, NY

East Williston is an incorporated village in the Town of North Hempstead in Nassau County on Long Island, New York. This suburb of New York City is home to a population of approximately 2,637 people and is considered one of the best places to live in the state. East Williston offers a high-quality lifestyle with its robust educational system led by the East Williston School District. The village also hosts several events and boasts various local restaurants, contributing to its lively community spirit.

18. Aspinwall, Pennsylvania

-Population: 2,901
– Location: Suburb of Pittsburgh, PA

Aspinwall is a friendly and vibrant borough located on the Allegheny River in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, and is part of the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. With a population of 2,901, it’s recognized as one of the best places to live in the state. The community is known for its pedestrian-friendly commerce, featuring independent groceries like Patty’s Farm Market and numerous gourmet adventures. Just 10 miles from Pittsburgh, it is also exceedingly convenient.

17. Haworth, New Jersey

-Population: 3,341
– Location: Suburb in New Jersey

Haworth is a borough in Bergen County, New Jersey, with a population of less than 4,000. This friendly community, situated just 20 miles from Midtown Manhattan, offers its residents the charm of a ‘true hometown’ feel while conveniently close to the city. Known for its tranquility and suburban lifestyle, Haworth is ranked as one of the best places to live in New Jersey.

16. Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey

-Population: 4,248
– Location: Suburb in New Jersey

Ho-Ho-Kus is a charming borough located in Bergen County, New Jersey. Known for its tight-knit community and welcoming atmosphere, it has a population of just over 4,000 residents. Ho-Ho-Kus is primarily an upper-class and upper-middle-class suburb of New York City, ranked 15th in New Jersey in terms of per-capita income. The borough is bisected by Route 17, a major route connecting northeast New Jersey, making it conveniently accessible.

15. Narberth, Pennsylvania

-Population: 4,467
– Location: Suburb of Philadelphia, PA

Narberth is a borough in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, just outside Philadelphia. With a population of around 4,295, it’s known for its small-town charm and vibrant community life. Narberth is rich in history and culture, with many buildings dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The downtown area is filled with local businesses, including unique shops, eateries, and a classic movie theater. The borough also boasts several parks, providing ample recreational opportunities for residents.

14. Searingtown, New York

-Population: 4,553
– Location: Suburb of New York City, NY

Searingtown is a census-designated place and hamlet in the Town of North Hempstead, Nassau County, on Long Island, New York. With a population of 4,553, it’s considered one of the best places to live in New York. Searingtown offers a suburban lifestyle while being near New York City.

13. Rose Valley, Pennsylvania

-Population: 1,116
– Location: Suburb of Philadelphia, PA

Rose Valley is a small, historic borough in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Covering an area of 0.73 square miles, it boasts a tight-knit community with approximately 1,116 residents. As a suburb of Philadelphia, Rose Valley offers a unique living experience and is considered one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania. The borough is characterized by its rich history, with many of its homes reflecting its past.

12. Kildeer, Illinois

-Population: 4,093
– Location: Suburb of Chicago, IL

Kildeer is a picturesque village located in southwestern Lake County, Illinois. It’s a suburb of Chicago. Known for its natural setting, Kildeer boasts spacious lots and is ranked as one of the top suburbs to live in Illinois. The village is also recognized for its rich, rolling, heavily forested land, with streams and small lakes.

11. Ardsley, New York

-Population: 4,984
– Location: Suburb of New York City, NY

Ardsley is a charming town in Westchester County, New York. As part of the town of Greenburgh, Ardsley is home to a close-knit community of under 5,000. This small but vibrant suburban village is known for its spirited atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. Ardsley offers the best of both worlds – the tranquility of suburban living and easy access to the bustling city life of New York. The village’s schools are part of the Ardsley Union Free School District, known for its competitive math competitions.

10. Mountain Lakes, New Jersey

-Population: 4,464
– Location: Suburb in New Jersey

Mountain Lakes is a scenic borough located in north-central New Jersey, where the rolling hills of the state’s Piedmont region meet the rocky outcroppings. This welcoming and walkable community with roughly 4,500 residents is known for its upscale vibe and rich history. The borough is notable for its many man-made lakes, including Birchwood Lake, Crystal Lake, Mountain Lake, Shadow Lake, Sunset Lake, Wildwood Lake, and Cove Lake. The borough is also home to the Mountain Lakes Club, which offers members year-round casual dining, events, swimming, tennis, and boating. Its architecture is distinctive, with many Arts and Crafts inspired houses built as summer homes for wealthy New Yorkers.

9. Cordaville, Massachusetts

-Population: 2,776
– Location: Suburb of Boston, MA

Cordaville is a pleasant, diverse community and census-designated place in the town of Southborough, Worcester County, Massachusetts. With a population of around 2,776, it’s considered one of the best places to live in Massachusetts and is a suburb of Boston. Known for its wide range of offerings for its citizens.

8. Kenilworth, Illinois

-Population: 2,423
– Location: Suburb of Chicago, IL

Kenilworth is a picturesque village in Cook County, Illinois, nestled approximately 17 miles north of downtown Chicago. With a population of just over 2,400 residents. Kenilworth offers a tight-knit community feel. The village is one of the suburban North Shore communities bordering Lake Michigan and is known for its affluent status. Renowned for its high-quality lifestyle, Kenilworth is often cited as one of the best places to live in Illinois. It boasts homes designed by esteemed architects, contributing to the village’s unique charm.

7. Herricks, New York

-Population: 4,163
– Location: Suburb of New York City, NY

Herricks, New York, is a charming hamlet and census-designated place in Nassau County on Long Island. As of the 2020 census, it has a population of 4,398. Herricks is known for its excellent quality of life, making it one of the best places to live in New York. The Herricks Union Free School District serves the community, which contains five schools and caters to over 4,000 students.

6. Berwyn, Pennsylvania

-Population: 3,620
– Location: Suburb of Philadelphia, PA

Berwyn, Pennsylvania, is a delightful census-designated place in Chester County. In the Tredyffrin and Easttown Townships, Berwyn is a suburb of Philadelphia and has a population of approximately 3,620. Despite its small size, Berwyn is noted for its rich rural charm and is considered one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania. Attractions include the Jenkins Arboretum & Garden and the Eagle Village Shops, offering residents and visitors a variety of experiences. With a great sense of community, Berwyn is a small town that displays big character.

5. Great Neck Gardens, New York

-Population: 1,258
– Location: Suburb of New York City, NY

Great Neck Gardens, also known as Allenwood, is a town on the Great Neck Peninsula in Nassau County, New York. It’s a vibrant suburb of New York City, boasting a population of around 1,258 residents. Known for its beautiful homes and real estate, the area offers a variety of options for prospective homeowners. The community is highly regarded as one of the best places to live in Nassau County, offering a blend of urban conveniences and suburban tranquility. Living in Great Neck Gardens provides a unique lifestyle where residents can enjoy the perks of city life while being part of a close-knit community.

4. Princeton Junction, New Jersey

-Population: 2,208

Princeton Junction is a quaint, unincorporated community and census-designated place in West Windsor in Mercer County, New Jersey. Despite its small population of around 2,208, it’s considered one of the best places to live in the state. The area is well-known for its Princeton Junction Station, which offers convenient transit solutions for residents and visitors alike. The community is strategically located halfway between New York City and Philadelphia, making it an ideal home base for commuters.

3. Lake Success, New York

-Population: 2,856
– Location: Suburb of New York City, NY

Lake Success is a charming village tucked within the Town of North Hempstead in Nassau County, New York. This peaceful suburb of New York City, located on the North Shore of Long Island, boasts a population of approximately 3,000 residents. It’s recognized as one of the best places to live in New York, offering its inhabitants a tranquil atmosphere amidst natural beauty. The village holds historical significance as it once served as the temporary headquarters for the United Nations. Today, it offers a range of amenities for its residents. Lake Success lives up to its name.

2. Kensington, New York

-Population: 1,299
– Location: Suburb of New York City, NY

Kensington, New York, is a serene village in Nassau County on the North Shore of Long Island, with a small population that underscores its peaceful atmosphere. This Kensington is known for its suburban tranquility and high-quality living standards. It’s recognized for its diversity, walkability, and the beautiful old Victorian homes lining its quiet streets. Kensington offers a blend of residential appeal and urban convenience.

1. Devon, Pennsylvania

-Population: 1,981
– Location: Suburb of Philadelphia, PA

Devon, Pennsylvania, is a charming census-designated place nestled in Easttown Township, Chester County. It is a small, upscale community well-known as the home for the Devon Horse Show and celebrated for its rich history and culture. With a population of around 1,981, it’s considered one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania. Located just outside of Philadelphia, Devon offers easy access to all the attractions in the city while maintaining the tranquility of suburban life. Popular attractions include the Jenkins Arboretum & Garden, Valley Forge Music Fair, and Anthropologie. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to call home or a vibrant community with cultural attractions, Devon, Pennsylvania, has something to offer everyone.

There you go! Now you know the best small towns that are pretty close to big cities that are best for raising families. If you’re looking for a change of pace and thinking about settling down and putting some roots down, each place is worth considering.

To learn more about some great towns worth exploring, keep reading. We’ve got the best small towns for antiquing to share with you!

Cottonwood, Arizona

Situated in the picturesque Verde Valley, Old Town Cottonwood has an eclectic antique and secondhand scene. Country Living recommends Larry’s Antiques & Things as it has more than two acres of treasures to shop. It’s not the only great spot you will find in this Cowboy town.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

If you have heard of Eureka Springs, Arkansas chances are that it concerned the town’s spas. But, there is more to it than just a lovely soak. The town boasts a great antique scene with Country Living singling out Castle Antiques, located near the scenic Inspiration Point, as one of the very best spots to shop.

Georgetown, Colorado

Georgetown, Colorado has one of the best nicknames ever: “Silver Queen of the Rockies.” Take a day trip here and you will not be disappointed. It might be a small town but it is mighty in its galleries, coffee shops, and of course antique stores. We urge you to take a look at the shops that are there to find the places you want to stop.

Woodbury, Connecticut

Woodbury is considered the antique capital of Connecticut. Usually, when a place gets that sort of distinction it is for larger cities. Woodbury, however, is of modest size. They have some of the most cleverly curated antique shops in the US there. Country Living notes that it is one of Martha Stewart‘s favorite places!

Micanopy, Florida

Spanish moss dripping from the branches of giant trees is commonplace in Micanopy, Florida. The town, located in the North-Central part of the state, has dubbed itself “The Antique Capital of the Sunshine State.” The beaches often get all the attention in Florida but there are magical pockets across the state.

Thomasville, Georgia

Thomasville, Georgia is steeped in history. As you might imagine, that means that there are a number of antiques that help tell the town’s story. Country Living suggests visiting the Toscoga Marketplace which houses multiple stories of antiques for you to explore.

Pocatello, Idaho

As scenic as it gets, Pocatello, Idaho has plenty to do indoors as well. The town has no less than a dozen antique stores and four vintage shops for you to explore. Country Living encourages you to visit  Vain & Vintage the next time you are in town.

Galena, Illinois

Galena is a swoon-worthy town that represents the best of what the Midwest has to offer. If you have the pleasure of staying in town, be sure to check out one of the many treasured B&Bs located in the area. You will likely want to spend more than just a day here as there are 16 antique stores nearby and the crowning jewel of them is The Galena Antiques Mall which houses over 55 dealers.

Walnut, Iowa

There are only about 900 residents in Walnut, Iowa. Knowing this, you might find it curious that there are no fewer than 16 antique stores in town. There are likely more pieces of milk glass in this town than there are people. Beginning in 1987, Country Living says the town was officially nicknamed “Antiques City.”

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Lawrence, Kansas

Lawrence is the sixth largest city in Kansas but, trust us, it still retains its small-town roots. The sweet downtown features a number of shops and galleries and places to grab a snack. Make sure you stop at Mass Street’s Antique Mall where Country Living says you can spend an entire day shopping for antiques.

Georgetown, Kentucky

The second Georgetown to make the list is found in Kentucky, in an area steeped in Bluegrass. The historic district found here really has a small-town feel to it. While you are there, you will want to check out Georgetown Antique Mall which has spread to not one but two buildings.

Ponchatoula, Louisiana

Ponchatoula is known for a couple of things in Louisiana. To start, it’s the “Strawberry Capital of the World.” We’ll take it, yum! Second, it is also known as “America’s Antique City.” The small yet beguiling town is home to  CJ’s Antiques, a 15,000-square-foot shop packed with antiques and collectibles, Country Living explains.

Wiscasset, Maine

We have news for you: there’s more to Maine than just lobster. That does not mean you should not get some lobster while you are in Wiscasset! We can think of no better pairing than lobster and antiques! Spend a day (or two) going through over 16,000 square feet of antiques at Wiscasset Village Antiques. You won’t be sorry!

Essex, Massachusetts

Yet another one of the towns on our list nicknamed “America’s Antique Capital,” Essex has everything from high-end to modest antique offerings. For the fancy stuff, Country Living suggests visiting David Neligan Antiques. If you’re after more down-to-earth offerings, The White Elephant Shop is the place for you!

Boulder City, Nevada

Do you like offbeat, quirky little towns? Boulder City is a place you must visit! It is a town of about 15,000 located 26 miles from Las Vegas. At The Antique Depot and Sherman’s House of Antiques, you can find everything from old neon signs to an antique washing machine, suggests Country Living.

New Bern, North Carolina

The handsome Tryon Palace was originally the governor’s mansion and is a landmark in this small town. After stopping to see the mansion, you will need to check out the antiques shopping in the region, including New Bern Antiques, which Country Living says is the largest antique and collectibles mall in Eastern North Carolina.

Aurora, Oregon

Only 25 minutes from Portland is this antique-filled town, which was originally founded as a Utopian society, Country Living notes. Now, Aurora is a utopia of dozens of antique, vintage, and specialty shops.

Wickford, Rhode Island

Historic Wickford Village and nearby North Kingstown boast some of the best antiquing in Rhode Island. Furniture is popular here: Wickford Antique Estate Liquidators offers beautiful period pieces, Country Living says. For smaller items, check out Re Rhode Island, which focuses more on vintage and consignment pieces.

Chester, Vermont

It doesn’t get more picturesque than Chester, Vermont which feels like an idyllic New England town. When you visit, you should definitely check out Stone House Antique Center which covers over 20,000 square feet! At Yankee Ingenuity Antiques, you will find stereotypical Vermont items alongside plenty of cast iron and vintage hardware.

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Snohomish, Washington

Nicknamed the “Antiques Capital of the Northwest,” Snohomish is home to over 175 antique dealers. Visit one of the antique malls that house many of these dealers’ goods for all things old and vintage. You are sure to walk away with something extra special!