Where to Get a City Feel in the Suburbs

Are you considering a move to the suburbs but not quite ready to give up the urban lifestyle? Well, according to a recent report, you may be able to have your cake and eat it, too.

The Cityness Index report from Zillow and Yelp Inc. rates suburbs according to the balance they provide between more space and privacy, and a big-city vibe. By combining data from both organizations, the index has identified areas that are close to major metros, but are more affordable and provide suburban amenities while maintaining an urban feel. The key metrics used include home values compared to the nearest big cities, housing availability, business diversity and consumer reviews, among others.

Waterbury, Conn., topped the list due its housing affordability ranking—homes are typically 29 percent less expensive than the typical home in nearby New Haven, Conn., and 46 percent less expensive than the typical U.S. home. This beat out Lowell, Mass., which came in second place for having home values that are about half of what you could expect to pay in Boston Proper, as well as having "plentiful options."

For city types who are dreaming of more space and a more affordable lifestyle, but who aren’t quite ready to relinquish culture and nightlife, consider these top 10  affordable city-like suburbs from the Cityness Index: 

1. Waterbury, Conn.
Typical home value: $139,304
Cityness Index Score: 67.6

2. Lowell, Mass.
Typical home value: $323,576
Cityness Index Score: 64.7

3. Joliet, Ill.
Typical home value: $155,018
Cityness Index Score: 63.8

4. Sunrise, Fla.
Typical home value: $243,078
Cityness Index Score: 60.7

5. Pasadena, Texas
Typical home value: $168,080
Cityness Index Score: 60.5

6. Lancaster, Calif.
Typical home value: $320,494
Cityness Index Score: 59.3

7. Hampton, Va.
Typical home value: $188,373
Cityness Index Score: 58.6

8. Marietta, Ga.
Typical home value: $318,06
Cityness Index Score: 58.4

9. Norman, Okla.
Typical home value: $180,833
Cityness Index Score: 58.2

10. Tempe, Ariz.
Typical home value: $338,052
Cityness Index Score: 57.9

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