The Most Relaxed US Cities To Live in 2025
Written by
Laura Beck
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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We’re all chasing the dream of a better work-life balance in a calmer environment, and some cities are attuned to easing your mood and lifestyle.
GOBankingrates previously looked at the most relaxed U.S. cities to live in this year. Now we’re back with a crystal ball looking at 2025, and things are looking fairly chill in some towns.
GOBankingRates talked to experts to find out which cities will provide the most relaxation bang for your buck.
So pack your yoga mat and your candles, because this article is breaking down the chillest U.S. cities to live in next year.
You can also learn about these five cities that offer a great quality of life without financial sacrifices.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Dr. Mary Poffenroth, neuro-hacking biopsychologist and author of “Brave New You,” a guide to understanding anxiety and stress, thinks Virginia Beach is a relaxing choice for 2025.
“Proximity to the beach offers regular exposure to nature, which has been shown to increase the production of serotonin — a neurotransmitter linked to improved mood and decreased stress and anxiety,” she shared.
But it’s not just about the sun and the sand. Poffenroth added, “Virginia Beach’s temperate climate also lends itself to an active outdoor lifestyle.
“Physical activity has been found to stimulate the release of endorphins, which are endogenous opioids that function as neurotransmitters and interact with opioid receptors in the brain to reduce the perception of pain and induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation.”
Translation? Living in Virginia Beach is sure to boost your relaxation quotient.
New York City, New York
New York City and relaxation in the same sentence? But hear us out. Poffenroth thinks the Big Apple might surprise us in 2025.
“The high number of parks (347) provides extensive opportunities for spending time in nature, a practice known as ‘forest bathing,'” she explained.
“Research has demonstrated that being in nature can lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, and increase parasympathetic nervous system activity, which is responsible for relaxation responses in the body like lowered heart rate and blood pressure.”
Poffenroth continued, “New York City also has a high Green Index (77.72), indicating an environment conducive to reducing oxidative stress in the brain.”
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles isn’t just about Hollywood glamour. Poffenroth thinks it might be a relaxation powerhouse by 2025.
“Los Angeles’s sunny climate promotes vitamin D production through exposure to natural sunlight,” she shared. “Vitamin D plays a role in mood regulation by increasing serotonin synthesis, and adequate levels have been correlated with reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.”
But it’s not all about solo sunbathing.
Poffenroth added, “Community-based wellness initiatives aimed at enhancing social connections through activities like group exercise classes, meditation in the park programs and outdoor health fairs work to strengthen social ties.”
Bonus: Top Destinations for Vacations
If you’re not ready to make a full-time move but still need to unwind, Campspot wants you to be aware of some of the best towns for your upcoming “calm-cation.”
Topping their list is Ashland, New Hampshire. They love it for its water-based relaxation, and its gateway to the Lakes Region bordered by the Pemigewasset River and Little Squam Lake.
But it’s not the only place to make a splash – Auburn, Maine has a scenic river walk along the Androscoggin River and fishing at Lake Auburn, while Grand Rapids, Michigan (aka “Beer City”) sits pretty on the Grand River, just an hour from Lake Michigan’s shoreline.
For those who prefer sun and sand, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, dubbed the nation’s “summer capital,” might be what you’re looking for.
And if you want a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, Knoxville, Tennessee, situated on the Tennessee River, is absolutely stunning and a great place to become one with the chillness.
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