Money magazine on Monday published its 2011 list of "100 best places to live in America," highlighting small towns across the country with populations of 50,000 or less. For the annual cover story, which hits stands on Aug. 19, Money looked for places with the optimal combination of job opportunities, fiscal strength, top-notch schools, safe streets, good health care, cultural and outdoor activities, and even nice weather.

Money's editors write, "With the current state of the economy -- and the dispiriting sight of the nation's leaders endlessly battling about how to fix it -- the phrase 'small town' conjures up images of a happier time. When unemployment wasn't above 9%. When people didn't stress out about home values. When school budgets weren't under siege. Those were the days, right?"


Topping the list is Louisville, Colo., 23 miles outside of Denver. It has a strong economy, stable housing and lots to do. Louisville has one of the lowest crime rates in Colorado and was also ranked No. 1 in 2009, when Money assessed places with populations of under 50,000.


There are good jobs in Louisville in tech, telecom, aerospace, clean energy and health care. Additionally, Money's editors report that businesses are flourishing in the historic downtown. "This summer alone saw the opening of three restaurants, a rooftop bar, a coffee shop, a yoga studio, a gift shop, and two art galleries. And world-class outdoor recreation is a short drive away."


Here are Money's top 25 places to live in the United States:


1. Louisville, Colo.

2. Milton, Mass.

3. Solon, Ohio

4. Leesburg, Va.

5. Papillion, Neb.

6. Hanover, N.H.

7. Liberty, Mo.

8. Middleton, Wis.

9. Mukilteo, Wash.

10. Chanhassen, Minn.

11. Sharon, Mass.
12. Farmington, Utah
13. Johnston, Iowa
14. Arden Hills, Minn.
15. Sammamish, Wash.
16. Acton, Mass.
17. Montville, N.J.
18. Newcastle, Wash.
19. Castle Rock, Colo.
20. Superior, Colo.
21. Hunter's Creek, Fla.
22. South Brunswick, N.J.
23. North Salt Lake, Utah
24. Mason, Ohio
25. West Goshen, Pa.

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