3 New England Cities Make The List Of The Top 10 Healthiest Places To Live

Money Magazine has been a trusted source for all things finance since 1972. Their most popular and successful contribution to readers has been their annual list of “America’s Best Places to Live.”

Several parameters are used in determining which cities make the list, including housing affordability, education, healthcare, arts and culture, safety and sense of community. Newton, Massachusetts managed to land a coveted spot on the 2016 “Best Places to Live” list at number 31 out of 50.

Money has also developed several sub-lists including “Best Big Cities” and “Healthiest Places to Live.” 3 other New England cities nabbed spots on the “Healthiest Places” list – Quincy, MA; Nashua, NH; and Greenwich, CT.

As for how they determined a city’s “healthiness”, the magazine explained that they looked for low rates of heart disease, diabetes, asthma, obesity, and other common ailments. They also examined the number of doctors and hospitals within a 30-mile radius, and the percentage of the population covered by health insurance. They even thought outside the box by considering the number of residents who reported feeling healthy. 

Quincy made the list at number 5, citing the country’s lowest rate of diabetes-related deaths. The gorgeous ocean views, access to incredible hiking in the Blue Hills, and the number of fitness centers and healthy eateries certainly didn’t hurt Quincy’s ranking.

Nashua, New Hampshire scored the number 6 spot thanks to the happiness and health satisfaction of its residents. Money reported that according to the Centers for Disease Control, more Nashua residents reported feeling as if they are in “good or excellent” health than any other city studied.

Greenwich, Connecticut was New England’s highest scoring city on the list of healthiest places to live at number 3. There are more than 500 hospital beds within a 15 mile radius of the city, making access to exceptional healthcare one of the highest in the country. The fact that the median family income sits at $167,825 means that Greenwich residents also have their choice of the best fitness and lifestyle services, as well as more frequent vacations.

So if you’re feeling stressed and unhealthy, pop on over to Quincy, Nashua or Greenwich for a little R & R. Maybe all that wellness and vigor is contagious!