Matt Lyons

L.A. is huge, and living within the city doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have shorter commute times — or that you’ll be in the most family-friendly neighborhood. And, of course, if you’re looking for more affordability, a larger home, or more of a suburban lifestyle altogether, you’ll likely find that on the outskirts. But what places should you consider? Start with our picks for the best cities near Los Angeles.

When it comes to moving to a city in the Lone Star State, you can’t go wrong with the home of the Alamo. San Antonio is one of those all-in-one places: It has a small-town feel but with the amenities of a big city and a great economy — not to mention a unique history. The downside? San Antonio has one of the highest crime rates in America. So what do you do if you want to make the move to Mission City? You look into the safest neighborhoods in San Antonio. Here are 7 that we think you check out.

Although the advantages of daily living in Washington, D.C., are what draw in so many new residents each year, when it comes to the cost of living in D.C., the high price tag could mean the difference between packing your bags and staying put. A smart compromise? Looking into cities near Washington, D.C., instead. Check out our list of the top 10 cities to consider.

Washington, D.C., may pride itself on being the center of all the government action, but this one-of-a-kind city is also a great place to settle down — especially for families. With so many job opportunities, strong public schools, and things to do, you’ll definitely want to consider planting those family roots here. But where are the best neighborhoods and suburbs for families in the area? Here are 13 of our top choices.

While Texas offers plenty of amenities for its younger population, the state’s low cost of living, warm weather, natural scenery, and outdoor activities are also favorable among retired residents. In fact, residents 65 years of age or older make up more than 13 percent of the population in Texas. But where do they live? Here are 12 of the best places to retire in Texas.