The country is the perfect place to raise a family. People who prefer outdoor activities to malls and are looking for a low crime area and affordable housing should consider moving to a rural area. In many parts of the country, exceptional schools and universities vie for new students, and wide-open spaces with little traffic and friendly and helpful neighbors enchant newcomers.
The job market is flourishing in Eden Prairie with unemployment nearly one percent below the national average. Several large companies make their products there, and with 50,000 jobs right in town the economy is blooming. The countryside is breathtaking with gently rolling hills and 17 lakes for swimming in the summer or ice-skating in the winter. The downtown area is not large, but lovely parks, criss-crossed with miles of running, hiking and biking trails give anyone who loves to be outside plenty of things to do. Several very good schools invite new students. If you don't mind cold winters, this is the place to live.
With a population of about 9,400, there is plenty of room to grow, wander and play. Seven towns belong to the county, of which Aurora is the biggest with 4,225 inhabitants. Hamilton county is the perfect place for corn and soybean farmers, and these crops grow in abundance with the excellent irrigation system the county offers. Companies like IAM's pet food, B.K. Heuermann's microwave popcorn and an ethanol plant provide employment, and several fine schools educate the next generation. There is no shortage of fresh air, friendly neighbors and beautiful countryside.
This small city boasts a population of 155,000, grand homes and a lovely old-fashioned downtown section. Large tracts of parkland alternate with a wide range of affordable housing, and excellent schools and a diverse population invite newcomers. Jobs are plentiful, the crime rate is low, and the city and several nearby smaller towns offer the best country life has to offer.
Barren County offers rolling farmland, a rich history, friendly people and great business opportunities. It also has some of the top schools in Kentucky. The population for the county is about 40,000, and the county seat is Glasgow. Several smaller townships and cities surround Glasgow. Three school districts are inviting new students, and the Scots-Irish heritage makes for colorful games and festivities throughout the year. A large lake with a beautiful beach, golf courses and bowling lanes makes sure everybody, from tots to seniors, has plenty to do.
Warren County, PA, is breathtaking with its lovely hills, the Allegheny River and great fishing and camping spots. The weather is mild summers and winters. In Gillespie County, TX, you will find wide-open spaces, cowboys and cattle. The peach orchards and citrus farms add to its charm.
