Top LOOKS for Town

Best Towns to Live In (Population Under 25,000)

When people think about moving, they often picture big cities or sprawling suburbs. But for many, the best choice is actually a small town under 25,000 residents. Towns like these offer slower pace, stronger community, and easier access to nature — while still keeping you close enough to bigger metros for work, shopping, and travel.

Whether you’re looking for a historic New England village, a wine country community, or a mountain town with wide open space, these small towns deliver.

Best Small Towns in the U.S.

Sebastopol, CA

Sebastopol sits in Sonoma County, surrounded by vineyards and redwood groves. It has a quirky, artsy feel, with local galleries, craft shops, and a community that values sustainability. Though it feels rural, it’s less than 20 minutes from Santa Rosa and about an hour from San Francisco.

Los Olivos, CA

This Santa Barbara County town has just a few streets but plenty of charm. Wine tasting rooms, farm-to-table restaurants, and oak-dotted hills give it a distinct character. Life moves slowly here, which makes it perfect for people wanting a true countryside pace.

Middlebury, VT

Home to Middlebury College, this Vermont town blends historic charm with cultural energy. There’s a walkable downtown, covered bridges, and easy access to the Green Mountains. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community and all four New England seasons.

Bennington, VT

Bennington is another quintessential Vermont town, known for its Revolutionary War history and covered bridges. It’s quiet, surrounded by rolling hills, and has a growing arts scene. Locals enjoy small-town life with access to hiking, skiing, and community events.

Sturbridge, MA

Known for Old Sturbridge Village, this town leans into its historical identity while offering a family-friendly New England lifestyle. The area has lakes, trails, and good schools, making it attractive to families who want community without the rush of nearby Worcester or Boston.

Lockhart, TX

Lockhart is famous as the “Barbecue Capital of Texas,” but it’s also a laid-back town with growing appeal. Located just south of Austin, it’s popular among people priced out of the city who still want to be within commuting distance. The community vibe here is friendly and down-to-earth.

Laramie, WY

Laramie is a rugged college town surrounded by Wyoming’s open skies. The University of Wyoming brings cultural events and youthful energy, while the nearby Snowy Range offers hiking, skiing, and fishing. It’s a small town with big access to the outdoors.

Blacksburg, VA

Home to Virginia Tech, Blacksburg has the feel of a tight-knit town with a dash of college-town vibrancy. It consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in Virginia thanks to its mountain scenery, affordability, and strong sense of community.

South Lake Tahoe, CA/NV

While it’s best known as a tourist destination, South Lake Tahoe also has a full-time community that enjoys year-round mountain living. Skiing in the winter, hiking and boating in the summer, and a tight-knit small-town culture make it a special place to settle.

Why People Choose Towns

  • Community connection – In towns this size, people know their neighbors and often engage in local events.
  • Access to nature – Many towns are close to mountains, forests, lakes, or farmland.
  • Slower pace – Without the rush of city traffic or crowds, life feels more relaxed.
  • Affordability – While not always true (think California wine country), towns often come with lower housing costs.

Is a Small Town Right for You?

Towns under 25,000 aren’t for everyone. If you thrive on nightlife or public transit, you may find them limiting. But if you’re drawn to community and more space for less money, these towns can offer something larger metros can’t.

Exploring towns is just one way to narrow your search. Use LookyLOO to explore neighborhoods, compare lifestyles, and see which places fit you best.

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