USA Today recognizes Lynchburg as one of top five cities in the South to move to

USA Today recently released a list of the top southern cities to move to, and Lynchburg was in the top five. Nearby cities Richmond and Roanoke also made the top 10.

According to the U. S. Census Bureau, the southern region of the United States grew by 1.4 million residents in 2023. The warmer climate and lower cost of living is an initial appeal, but the South is also home to beaches and mountains. Overall, it is a region that allows most people to find something they enjoy.

USA Today analyzed a range of factors when compiling the list of cities. The primary contributors were the quality of schools, number of activities, crime rates, risk of severe weather and many economic factors. The conclusion made was that the best cities on this list were mid-sized while offering affordable housing and lower chances of experiencing natural disasters.

Lynchburg was listed as the fourth-best city to move to in the South. The proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian trail, as well as the thriving art scene in the city, were listed as some of  Lynchburg’s main attractions.

According to USA Today’s compiled data on Lynchburg, the crime rate per 1,000 residents is 28.2, the unemployment rate is only 3.1%, the typical rent is $1,296 and the number of restaurants per 1,000 residents is 3.4. This data was collected from a variety of sources including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Tripadvisor, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, among others.

USA Today also highlighted how Lynchburg is one of the most resilient cities in the South to severe weather. The city scored a 41.8 in expected annual loss. Put simply, this is the estimated financial loss due to natural hazards.

This is the best score out of all 209 cities considered in this study. Despite its long-lasting nickname, “Drenchburg,” Lynchburg historically withstands rain and storms well.

Another featured aspect of Lynchburg is the city’s reasonable cost of living, which is especially appealing for college students. Students who support themselves through college are drawn to cities with an abundance of activities and opportunities but all at a reasonable cost. Lynchburg is home to students of Liberty University, University of Lynchburg, Randolph College and Central Virginia Community College.

One Lynchburg resident and university student, Ty Carr, said he loves the fact that everything he enjoys is always within a 10-15 minute drive.

“I think Lynchburg is extremely affordable, especially considering how many options there are for living with other people due to the large number of college students. Rent, gas and groceries are affordable for anyone (who) works a decent job and is financially responsible,” Carr said.

Another resident, Michelle Worley, has lived in several cities throughout her life. However, she says Lynchburg has many factors that make it the best place she has lived in the South.

“I would say that Lynchburg has a reasonable living cost. … Certain aspects like housing have increased over the last few years, but overall living costs are reasonable with the standard income for the Lynchburg area,” Worley said.

Worley also said that one of her favorite parts about living in Lynchburg is the proximity to everything she needs. Having groceries, shops, church and work all within a short driving distance makes her and her family’s life very convenient.   

USA Today’s ranking is an honor for Lynchburg to receive; students are able to enjoy living in a top five southern city for a few short years.

Mullet is a sports reporter for the Liberty Champion.