Once again Melbourne ranked among the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Places to Live.
For the second year in a row, the central Brevard city ranked No. 49 on the annual list of best places to live in the U.S., according to information released Tuesday. Previously, Melbourne ranked as high as No. 15.
U.S. News & World Report’s Best Places to Live rankings are intended to help readers make the most informed decisions when choosing where to settle down. Cities in the rankings are evaluated using data from sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, the FBI, the U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. News’ own internal resources.
The No. 1 spot went to Naples, which coincidentally, also was ranked as the top place in the country to retire by U.S. News & World Report.
“Troves of urbanites, families, professionals and retirees enjoy life in Melbourne, Florida, one of the Space Coast’s most populous cities,” according to the report. “On clear days, you can see sky-rumbling satellite launches and spacecraft containing cargo en route to the International Space Station from Cape Canaveral.”
It mentioned Melbourne’s Eau Gallie Arts District for its mixture of restaurants, bars and shops. Also noted was the city’s proximity to the Indian River Lagoon and the abundance of water activities available such as surfing, kayaking, fishing and boating.
“The Space Coast is committed to blending the arts, science and economic development into its energetic community,” the report stated. “Most people are generally warm and welcoming, and given that Melbourne attracts new residents from all over the country, you are sure to meet interesting folks from all different walks of life.”
The news comes one week after U.S News & World Report listed Melbourne as the 20th best place in the country to retire.
“U.S. News & World Report’s Best Places to Live rankings are intended to help readers make the most informed decisions when choosing where to settle down. Cities in the rankings are evaluated based on:
Spitzer is a Trending Reporter. She can be reached at MSpitzer@Floridatoday.com
Cheryl McCloud contributed to this report.