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Sammamish Claims Top Spot on U.S. Small Cities Ranking
The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred migration activity to markets outside of big cities. Research by WalletHub ranked Sammamish, WA as the top small city in the U.S. in its report on 2020’s Best Small Cities in America, while Redmond, WA was ranked No. 10.
Other small cities making the top 20 ranking included Lexington, MA (No. 2), Carmel, IN (No. 3), Needham, MA (No. 4) and Sugar Land, TX (No. 5).
Urbanization might be the trend for much of the population, but not everyone craves the bright lights and crowded spaces of big cities.
WalletHub researchers write, “In fact, city growth is slowing down while suburbanization is rising, and movement out of cities is spurred by fear of COVID-19 this year. In addition to providing a greater degree of social isolation during the pandemic, small-city life can be best for those who appreciate more wiggle room, fewer degrees of separation and shorter commutes, to name just a few of its advantages.”
Relative affordability is another factor driving Americans to migrate out of big cities. The researchers also pointed out there are a few trade-offs for small urban areas, though, such as fewer restaurant options or shorter business hours.
For comments, questions or concerns, please contact Dennis Kaiser
*Photo courtesy of City of Sammamish Facebook page
- ◦Economy
