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3 Arizona cities named top 100 places to live in US

Liviablity, an online resource that researches communities across the U.S., puts out the list annually and these three cities in Arizona made it. Here's why.
Credit: kpnx

ARIZONA, USA — Three Arizona cities made the "Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S." list, according to Livability. 

Livability, an online resource used for researching communities across the U.S., puts out the list annually. Cities are ranked using a "Liv score" based on categories such as the economy, housing and cost of living, amenities, transportation, environment, safety, education, and health. 

Tempe, Chandler and Gilbert all made the top 100. Here's why Livability calls these three cities in State 48 some of the best places to live. 

Gilbert

Liv score: 779 out of 1,000

Top categories: Gilbert ranked the highest for economy, health and transportation. 

What Livability had to say: Livability said Gilbert is one of America's "fastest growing communities" and includes a booming economy, "fabulous" healthcare facilities, "safe neighborhoods" and "highly-ranked schools." Livability also mentioned the Gilbert University of Arizona campus and the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch as two more reasons why you may want to consider moving to this East Valley city.

Chandler

Liv score: 765 out of 1,000

Top categories: Chandler ranked the highest for economy, health and transportation.

What Livability had to say: Chandler is known as the "Community of Innovation," Livability said, because of the Valley city's status as a fast-growing tech hub. Chandler also scored high for outdoor amenities, such as golf courses and parks. Livability also pointed out the numerous festivals that call Chandler home, including the Chandler Fine Art and Wine Festival, the Chandler Jazz Festival, the Ostrich Festival and the Southwest Cajun Festival — just to name a few.

Tempe

Liv score: 743 out of 1,000

Top categories: Tempe ranked the highest for economy, health and amenities. 

What Livability had to say: The city that is home to Arizona State University boasts nearly year-round sunshine and many amenities, making it a top 100 best city in Livability's eyes. The city is located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, providing residents with access to nearby mountains, local lakes and hiking trails as well as brew pubs and bars aplenty for you to try. Livability also pointed out the events in Tempe as a reason to move, including the 2nd Sundays on Mill, the Festival of the Arts and a holiday event called Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden. 

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