I think where I live is a good place to raise a family. The school district is the same one I attended for the last half of my schooling. It's more diversified now, but still good. (I think the diversification is great, but there were some painful adjustments in the first few years with students coming from schools that weren't as good.) Very safe, sidewalks and little parks everywhere, one playground being located 1/2 block from my house. Nice programs at the library for kids, if you're lucky enough to be free during those events. There could be more stuff to do, and more jobs in the area, but even distant commutes are quicker and easier than ones I read about in other cities. When I did have a local job, it was 6 miles away through residential areas, and I was so spoiled that I got pissed if it took me more than 12 minutes. I complain about stuff to do, but there's gorgeous beaches within 10 minutes drive, or easy bike distance, if you prefer. Good fishing and hunting, if you're into that sort of thing. There's a lot of events and sports options for the kids. I have to keep it down to a reasonable level, and I'm not sure I'm succeeding at that. I signed them up for elementary school basketball, plus swimming lessons. They're in cub scouts. Would love to do music lessons, theatre, indoor soccer, free ice-skating lessons, luge, and karate, but not enough to have them scheduled more than they already are.