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

83 of 100

83. Mansfield, Texas

Population: 36,800
Median home price (2006): $230,211
Average property taxes (2005): $3,538

With great schools, lush parks, and low crime, this Dallas suburb had everything - except a hospital. That changed earlier this year, when the $134 million high-tech Mansfield Methodist Medical Center opened. The center has not only provided Mansfield with a much-needed ER, but the influx of doctors and their practices has created a surge in job openings. In fact, Mansfield's economy is booming these days. Its biggest employer, Mouser Electronics, just completed a $14 million expansion of its headquarters. And with more medical companies looking to set up shop in Mansfield, the boom is likely to continue. -B.N.

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