Live by the beach—in bliss—in one of these waterfront towns recognized for their off-the-charts quality of life (think short commute time and average weekly work hours and lots of walking trails, public beaches, and restaurants per capita)
This data came from finance site WalletHub; see the full ranking of 2017's Best Beach Towns to Live in here for full methodology and other information on these beach towns.
South Carolina
At number 10 (out of 227!) in the ranking of quality of life, this South Carolina gem has all the conveniences of a big city with the charms of a small town, plus a beautiful waterfront, a thriving restaurant and bar scene, and miles of quiet beaches nearby.
South Carolina
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Year-round (or even seasonal) residents of this vacation hot spot benefit from the shops, restaurants, facilities, and more that vacationers love too, earning this coastal town a spot in the top ten for quality of life.
Hawaii
This community on sun-soaked Maui’s western coast has beautiful public beaches and ample outdoor activities on both land and water. (Bonus: It’s also relatively affordable, according to WalletHub!)
Michigan
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It may not be on the ocean, but Traverse City—located on Grand Traverse Bay, off of Lake Michigan—has plenty of waterfront vistas. It also has bayfront parks, a charming historic downtown with shops and restaurants, and an annual cherry festival, all of which contribute to the high quality of life residents enjoy.
Florida
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Located on an island offshore of bustling Miami, Miami Beach encompasses internationally acclaimed design districts, some of the most beautiful (and popular) beaches in the country, and spectacular shopping.
Florida
Though not exactly affordable, this storied key dotted with colorful cottages has an abundance of restaurants and bars, with several art galleries and plenty of other diversions to entertain its happy residents.
California
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The only West Coast town to break the top 10 for quality of life, Santa Monica offers a SoCal getaway that’s a little more low-key than L.A. A must-visit for wellness junkies, Santa Monica also boasts beautiful public beaches, an iconic boardwalk and pier, and a thriving art scene.
Florida
Gulf-facing Sarasota has ample public beaches, plus a stellar array of restaurants, several intriguing museums (including one dedicated to the circus), and popular walking and running routes. With all of this at their disposal, its no wonder residents enjoy such a high quality of life.
Florida
To visitors, it may be better known as the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the country, but St. Augustine also offers its residents all of the elements that make living well easy: Think a spectacular waterfront setting, a large selection of beaches, a lovely harbor, and (of course) plenty of history to explore.
Florida
Ranked number one for quality of life by WalletHub, Naples is famed for its high-end shopping and golfing. Its natural wonders are just as attractive: powder-soft beaches, regular dolphin sightings, and calm waters.