Residents know how special a place Westfield is, but recently CNN Money Magazine named the city one of the top 50 “Best Places to Live” for 2013. Westfield was the only Indiana community to make the list, which focuses on “America’s Best Small Towns.”
Overall, Westfield ranked fifth in the Midwest and 18th in the nation.
“It’s a wonderful recognition for our great city,” City Council President Jim Ake said.
The list includes America’s top 50 small towns which are not only thriving economically, but also have everything one could want in a place to raise a family: plenty of green space, good schools and a strong sense of community.
“We are thrilled to once again be ranked as one of the top places to live in the country. What a great honor for Westfield,” said Mayor Andy Cook. “Our elected officials, city staff, community partners and residents all played a part in our receiving this ranking. I’m especially proud of our professional city staff who serve our residents every day.”
Money Magazine considered a number of factors in its review, including economic measures, education and housing. Westfield’s high quality of life, low crime rate and projects such as the Grand Park Sports Campus and Grand Junction set it apart from other communities across in the country.
“The value of a safe city is intangible to put a dollar value on,” Cook said.
Westfield resident David Mueller also credits the school system for the ranking.
“Our schools are being ranked in the top five or 10 in the state, which also is a major economic development driver for Westfield,” he said. “People move to Westfield because they know their kids are going to get a good education.”
Mueller, who owns Insects Limited Inc. in Westfield, has lived in the city for 17 years and in Hamilton County since 1978.
“I think it’s great to have recognition about our city, but I also like the charm Westfield had as I and my children grew up here. Westfield has a feeling of a one stoplight town even though it may have 15 stoplights. As we grow, I hope Westfield remembers its historic past and Quaker heritage,” he said.
CNNMoney.com is the online home of FORTUNE and MONEY magazines, and serves as CNN’s exclusive business site. For the full list of America’s “Best Places to Live,” visit www.money.cnn.com.
