Best Large Cities to Live In (Population 500,000+)

When people think of big cities, they often picture the bustle of New York, the energy of Los Angeles, or the tech pulse of San Francisco. Large cities are defined here as having 500,000 residents or more, and they tend to be economic engines with cultural depth and endless opportunities. Living in one isn’t for everyone, but for those who want access to the biggest job markets along with arts, food, and nightlife, a large city delivers.

Below are some of the best large cities in the U.S., each offering a different flavor of urban life.

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Best Large Cities in the U.S.

New York City, NY

The country’s largest city and a world unto itself. NYC is home to unmatched cultural institutions, world-class dining, and a work environment across finance, tech, media, and more. Housing is notoriously expensive, but the variety of neighborhoods and energy of the city are unmatched.

Los Angeles, CA

A sprawling metropolis where creativity, entertainment, and innovation meet. LA offers a mix of urban life and outdoor access, with beaches, mountains, and desert all within reach. Traffic is infamous, but for many, the cultural richness and career opportunities outweigh the downsides.

Chicago, IL

The Midwest’s biggest hub with global connections. Chicago is known for its architecture, food scene, and lakefront lifestyle. Winters can be harsh, but the city offers affordability compared to coastal metros while still delivering a big-city experience.

Houston, TX

A rapidly growing metro with a global energy industry and a world-class medical center. Newcomers are always trilled at the thriving food culture. Houston is diverse, relatively affordable for a large city, and continues to expand in population and opportunity.

Phoenix, AZ

One of the fastest-growing large cities, Phoenix offers year-round sunshine and a business-friendly climate. Its suburban-style layout makes it feel less dense than coastal metros, but downtown and surrounding cities are expanding with new dining and culture.

San Antonio, TX

A large city with a small-town feel in many neighborhoods. San Antonio mixes rich history, Hispanic culture, and affordability with steady job growth. The River Walk and a booming culinary scene add to its appeal.

San Diego, CA

With one of the most consistently pleasant climates in the U.S., San Diego balances big-city amenities with laid-back coastal living. It’s a hub for biotech, the military, and tourism, and has some of the country’s most desirable neighborhoods. It also tends to be forgotten amidst the attention Los Angeles and San Francisco receive.

Dallas, TX

A business hub with a booming economy, Dallas blends modern urban living with a strong local identity. It’s a magnet for corporate relocations and offers a wide range of neighborhoods, from polished uptown to historic districts.

San Jose, CA

The unofficial capital of Silicon Valley, San Jose is the center of the tech universe. It’s an expensive place to live, but for those in the industry, the opportunities and salaries are unmatched.

Philadelphia, PA

A city with deep history, strong universities, and a growing job market. Philly combines affordability (compared to NYC or DC) with big-city culture, a strong food scene, and walkable neighborhoods.

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Should You Live in a Large City?

Large cities aren’t for everyone — they come with higher costs, more congestion, and sometimes intense competition. But they also offer career growth and cultural diversity. And don't forget the endless things to do available. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and want access to everything, they may be the right fit.

Ready to explore whether a big city is right for you?
👉 Take the LookyLOO Quiz to match with your best city(s) then start a free Movebook to save cities and plan your move.