100 best places to live and launch

Population: 94,088
Pros: Scenic area, good local health care
Cons: Traffic, low wages

Billings is the biggest city in a 500-mile radius, giving it - geographically - one of the largest trade areas in the U.S. People come to shop, dine, and see their doctors. With two large hospitals and 16 clinics, the city provides medical care for the entire region. Billings also has a tourist trade: it's a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, and a day's drive to the Glacier and Grand Teton national parks.

Billings has had some growing pains. It has a relatively high rate of property crime, and wages that haven't kept up with rising prices. However, traditional small-business owners thrive here, especially in retail and other service industries. -Elizabeth Bland

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