Three East Valley Cities Named Top Places To Live

Money magazine announced that Mesa ranked third on its list of "Best Big Cities" in the U.S., following number 1 Colorado Springs, CO and number 2 Austin, TX. It was one of several East Valley cities to make the cut in the financial magazine's 2006 list of the top 100 cities in which to live.

The magazine ranked Gilbert as the 16th best city of any size, and Scottsdale Arizona came in seventh. Although Mesa ranked higher among cities with a population of 300,000 or more, it came in 93rd when all city sizes were considered.

Every year, the magazine selects the best places to live based on a number of criteria, including ease of living, crime rates, education, leisure and culture, weather, health and transportation. Mesa was boosted by its relative affordability, Scottsdale by its golf courses and recreational opportunities, and Gilbert by its exceptional job growth. More...