Best Places to Live: Top 100

For this year's list we focused on smaller places that offered the best combination of economic opportunity, good schools, safe streets, things to do and a real sense of community.

By Kate Ashford, Andrea Bartz, Jeff Cox, Asa Fitch, Stephen Gandel, Josh Hyatt, Rob Kelley, Kathleen Knight, Joe Light, Ismat Sarah Mangla, Sarah Max, Jennifer Merritt, Brad Nelson, Donna Rosato, Ingrid Tharasook

Clockwise from top left: Valleywood Golf Course, Apple Valley Police Department, Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, Chaparral Park

28 of 100

28. Apple Valley, Minn.

Population: 49,700
Median home price (2006): $257,746
Average property taxes (2006): $2,638

Apple Valley is bearing much more than fruit these days. Once a quiet farming community, this Twin Cities suburb has seen subdivisions, many inspired by New Urbanism, sprout up across the landscape. While residents take advantage of the many miles of walking trails, the real attraction is the Minnesota Zoo, with more than 2,000 animals, including an excellent tiger exhibit and an aquarium. And with a top-performing magnet high school focusing on environmental science, Apple Valley has plenty to offer nature buffs, young and old alike. -B.N.

See complete data and interactive map for Apple Valley
Find homes for sale in Apple Valley