Best Midwest Cities for Millennials award banner Best Midwest Cities for Millennials

Many or all of the products here are from our partners that compensate us. It’s how we make money. But our editorial integrity ensures our experts’ opinions aren’t influenced by compensation. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page.

Millennials are a growing force in the housing market. They account for the largest group of homebuyers by generation, even though the majority of millennials are not yet homeowners.

With millennials entering the typical age range for first-time homebuyers, The Ascent evaluated the largest cities in the Midwest for millennial homebuyers, and ranked the top 10.

We ranked those cities based on cost of living, home prices, homeowners insurance premiums, car insurance premiums, and social equity.

In an effort to make our readers smarter, happier, and richer, our editors also selected the best banks, credit unions, homeowners insurance, car insurance, and mortgage lenders in each city. For each category we chose a variety of data points to crown a winner, including interest rates, customer service, fees, geography, and variety of product offerings.

JUMP TO:

1. Davenport, Iowa

The Davenport, Iowa skyline

Image source: Getty Images

Davenport sits on the eastern border of Iowa along the Mississippi river, halfway between Chicago and Des Moines. While Davenport falls short when it comes to public transit, it has below-average healthcare and childcare costs, as well as excellent recreational and cultural amenities. Davenport is home to several major music festivals and has more than 50 public parks and miles of biking and walking paths. Davenport has one of the lower costs of living among Midwest cities -- and the lowest average home price on our list.

  • Average home price: $152,300
  • Median car insurance premium: $1,661 per year
  • Average home insurance premium: $1,502 per year

Looking to move? Consider these editors' choice offerings

Editors' Choice: Best Bank in Davenport, IA

Axos Bank

Rating image, 3.50 out of 5 stars.
3.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Axos makes banking easy with great interest rates and a popular mobile app. Axos offers a solid mix of different accounts and services, and doesn't charge monthly fees.

Read full review
GreenState Credit Union

Editors' Choice: Best Credit Union in Davenport, IA

GreenState Credit Union

Whether you want to bank, borrow, invest, or insure, GreenState Credit Union has you covered. With a friendly online presence and available locations, there is something for everyone.

Learn more
Better

Editors' Choice: Best Mortgage Lender in Davenport, IA

Better

Rating image, 4.5 out of 5 stars.
4.5/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Better offers an "all-in-one" mortgage experience. They'll do everything from sell your house (with no Realtor fees) to providing homeowners coverage. It's a one-stop shop.

Read full review
Geico

Editors' Choice: Best Car Insurance in Davenport, IA

Geico

Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

With a range of coverage options and solid discounts, this company offers Davenport drivers competitive rates that can come in below the state average. The company also scores well in JD Power's car insurance and claims satisfaction surveys.

Read full review
West Bend Mutual Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Homeowners Insurance in Davenport, IA

West Bend Mutual Insurance

This small regional company offers Davenport homeowners rates well below the state average. They offer a variety of coverage options so customers can tailor their policy to their needs.

Learn more

2. Cleveland, Ohio

The Cleveland, Ohio skyline

Image source: Getty Images

Cleveland sits on Lake Erie, and the Cuyahoga River divides the city in half, giving it lots of space for waterfront attractions. Cleveland has three major league sports teams and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, along with a world-class zoo, botanical garden, and museums of all kinds (some of which are right on the shore of Lake Erie). Cleveland's downtown is walkable and also offers a bike-share program. Recreation opportunities, nightlife, and various festivals and attractions go on year-round in Cleveland. Housing costs are below the national average, and Cleveland residents also enjoy homeowners insurance premiums lower than Ohio's state average.

  • Average home price: $198,800
  • Median car insurance premium: $1,621
  • Average home insurance premium: $1,373
Looking to move? Consider these editors' choice offerings

Editors' Choice: Best Bank in Cleveland, OH

Axos Bank

Rating image, 3.50 out of 5 stars.
3.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Axos stands out for its competitive APYs on both its savings and interest-bearing checking accounts. It doesn't charge maintenance fees or have minimum balance requirements.

Read full review
Century Federal CU

Editors' Choice: Best Credit Union in Cleveland, OH

Century Federal CU

Century Federal is an incredible option for Cleveland residents. Its array of products and customer satisfaction are second to none, but its low interest rates might be its most compelling feature.

Learn more
First Federal Lakewood

Editors' Choice: Best Mortgage Lender in Cleveland, OH

First Federal Lakewood

First Federal offers the most expansive menu of mortgage loans I've ever run across, including grant programs. Truly a solution to offer every borrower.

Learn more
Ohio Mutual Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Homeowners Insurance in Cleveland, OH

Ohio Mutual Insurance

Ohio Mutual Insurance offers a range of coverage options for Cleveland homeowners, with flexible options and rates often below the state average. This is a regional company, so services are tailored to the local area.

Learn more
Erie Auto Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Car Insurance in Cleveland, OH

Erie Auto Insurance

Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

This regional insurer offers customizable car insurance for Cleveland drivers that frequently comes in well below the state average. They're also consistently rated in the top three for car claims satisfaction by JD Power.

Read full review

3. Fort Wayne, Indiana

The Fort Wayne, Indiana skyline

Image source: Getty Images

Located in Northeast Indiana, Fort Wayne is close to both Michigan and Ohio. It earned an All-America City Award from the National Civic League in 2021, and it offers a wide variety of attractions ranging from the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory to the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo -- one of the top 10 zoos in the country. While Fort Wayne doesn't have the most robust public transportation system, it's about average when it comes to walkability and median car insurance premiums are below many neighboring metro areas in the Midwest, making it a relatively affordable place to get around.

  • Average home price: $189,900
  • Median car insurance premium: $1,650
  • Average home insurance premium: $1,537
Looking to move? Consider these editors' choice offerings
Star Financial

Editors' Choice: Best Bank in Fort Wayne, IN

Star Financial

Star Bank has competitive rates for savers and offers achievable ways to waive its monthly fee. It has a wide range of services and accounts to suit various people's needs.

Learn more
3Rivers Federal Credit Union

Editors' Choice: Best Credit Union in Fort Wayne, IN

3Rivers Federal Credit Union

From a safe deposit box to financial planning, 3Rivers has you covered. And you won't want to miss the interest rates on their loans.

Learn more
Chase Mortgage

Editors' Choice: Best Mortgage Lender in Fort Wayne, IN

Chase Mortgage

Rating image, 4.5 out of 5 stars.
4.5/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

There are a few things to like about Chase's mortgage program. First, the lender makes it easy for people with small down payments to get into a house. Their rates are competitive, and they pay borrowers $5,000 if they can't close a mortgage within three weeks.

Read full review
Allstate

Editors' Choice: Best Homeowners Insurance in Fort Wayne, IN

Allstate

Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Allstate may be a national company, but they offer great regional deals and discounts for Fort Wayne homeowners, with rates often well below the state average. Additionally, they're ranked in the top 10 for customer satisfaction by JD Power.

Read full review
Grange Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Car Insurance in Fort Wayne, IN

Grange Insurance

This regional insurer has a large range of coverage options and regional discounts, giving Fort Wayne drivers competitive rates often below the state average.

Learn more

4. Cedar Rapids, Iowa

The Cedar, Rapids skyline

Image source: Getty Images

Cedar Rapids is the second-largest city in Iowa and is located in the eastern part of the state on the banks of the Cedar River. The city has a suburban feel and offers many green spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy, including over 100 miles of bike and pedestrian trails. Check out the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art to find the largest collection of work by Iowa-based artist Grant Wood (best known for painting American Gothic). Home prices in Cedar Rapids are a little higher than in Iowa overall, but residents pay less on average for both homeowners and car insurance. Note: Three of our social equity metrics were unavailable for Cedar Rapids.

  • Average home price: $182,800
  • Median car insurance premium: $1,606.50
  • Average home insurance premium: $1,543
Looking to move? Consider these editors' choice offerings
Hills Bank

Editors' Choice: Best Bank in Cedar Rapids, IA

Hills Bank

Hills Bank has become one of the largest community banks in Iowa, and offers excellent APYs on its checking and savings accounts. It's relatively easy for those who want to upgrade from its no-fee checking account to waive the fees on its high-interest checking option.

Learn more

Editors' Choice: Best Credit Union in Cedar Rapids, IA

Alliant

Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Alliant is a national brand, but it shouldn't be overlooked by residents of Cedar Rapids. It can service all your banking needs while offering some unique bonuses to boot.

Read full review
New American Funding

Editors' Choice: Best Mortgage Lender in Cedar Rapids, IA

New American Funding

Rating image, 4.5 out of 5 stars.
4.5/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

New American Funding has some of the highest customer service ratings we've run across. Those reviews along with local benefits make New American Funding a winner.

Read full review
Farm Bureau

Editors' Choice: Best Car Insurance in Cedar Rapids, IA

Farm Bureau

Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Although Farm Bureau is a smaller company, they still offer customizable coverage options, and Cedar Rapids drivers can enjoy rates that frequently come in below the state average.

Read full review
West Bend Mutual Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Home Insurance in Cedar Rapids, IA

West Bend Mutual Insurance

Offering a range of coverage options, this company provides flexible benefits at a cost often below the state average. Plus, as a regional company, services are tailored to Cedar Rapids and local area homeowners.

Learn more

5. Cincinnati, Ohio

The Cincinnati, Ohio skyline

Image source: Getty Images

Cincinnati is the third-largest city in Ohio by population. It's well-known for its major sports teams, including the Reds, the Bengals, and FC Cincinnati. It's also home to a minor-league hockey team called the Cincinnati Cyclones. But you'll find more than just sports in this city. The Cincinnati Zoo, the University of Cincinnati, Krohn Conservatory, and the American Classical Music Hall of Fame are just some of the many renowned institutions located within the city's borders. Parents will also appreciate that childcare is relatively affordable in Cincinnati, while public transportation options in the area are also above average and make it easy to get around.

  • Average home price: $243,400
  • Median car insurance premium: $1,636
  • Average home insurance premium: $1,408
Looking to move? Consider these editors' choice offerings
Huntington Bank

Editors' Choice: Best Bank in Cincinnati, OH

Huntington Bank

Huntington has competitive rates and various benefits for people who open a mix of accounts. It has a free checking option with no minimum balance requirements.

Learn more
Cinfed Credit Union

Editors' Choice: Best Credit Union in Cincinnati, OH

Cinfed Credit Union

Cinfed Credit Union is great for Cincinnati. It offers residents all the great perks you would want from a credit union while also continually being voted as one of the best places to work in the area.

Learn more
Franklin Financial Group

Editors' Choice: Best Mortgage Lender in Cincinnati, OH

Franklin Financial Group

Franklin is another mortgage lender with great reviews, but, more importantly, the company works to find mortgage loans that work for hard-to-fit borrowers.

Learn more
Erie Auto Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Car Insurance in Cincinnati, OH

Erie Auto Insurance

Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

A mid-sized regional insurer, Erie offers Cincinnati drivers below-average rates and solid bundling discounts. Plus, they're 2nd in the nation for car claims satisfaction according to the latest JD Power survey.

Read full review
Ohio Mutual Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Homeowners Insurance in Cincinnati, OH

Ohio Mutual Insurance

A regional insurance company that offers Cincinnati homeowners a range of coverage options. Rates are often below the state average, making it an affordable pick for many homeowners.

Learn more
Ohio Mutual

Editors' Choice: Best Homeowners Insurance in Cincinnati, OH

Ohio Mutual

Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

A regional insurance company that offers Cincinnati homeowners a range of coverage options. Rates are often below the state average, making it an affordable pick for many homeowners.

Read full review

6. Des Moines, Iowa

The Des Moines, Iowa skyline

Image source: Getty Images

Des Moines is the capital of Iowa, but it balances a small-town feel with plenty of excitement downtown in the form of unique restaurants, cultural festivals, and a lively performing-arts scene. Des Moines is a major hub for the insurance industry, and more than 80 insurance companies maintain offices there. The Iowa State Fair, which is regarded as one of the best in the U.S., is known for appearances by politicians, as well as the life-size cow butter sculpture. Des Moines' median car and homeowners insurance costs are lower than Iowa's as a whole, so residents can save money on this essential coverage.

  • Average home price: $258,200
  • Median car insurance premium: $1,640
  • Average home insurance premium: $1,694
Looking to move? Consider these editors' choice offerings
Iowa State Bank

Editors' Choice: Best Bank in Des Moines, IA

Iowa State Bank

Iowa State Bank stands out for its high interest checking account with very achievable qualification requirements. With no monthly fee or minimum balance requirement, it is worth a closer look.

Learn more
Greater Iowa Credit Union

Editors' Choice: Best Credit Union in Des Moines, IA

Greater Iowa Credit Union

This is one of the best credit unions we have ever come across. It covers all of your banking needs and offers unique perks and discounts. On top of that, Greater Iowa Credit Union continues to look for way to reinvest in local communities.

Learn more
Guaranteed Rate Mortgage

Editors' Choice: Best Mortgage Lender in Des Moines, IA

Guaranteed Rate Mortgage

Rating image, 4.0 out of 5 stars.
4.0/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

In addition to providing first-time buyers with a comprehensive overview of how the process works, Guaranteed Rate is among the best for those who prefer to do (nearly) everything online.

Read Full Review
West Bend Mutual Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Homeowners Insurance in Des Moines, IA

West Bend Mutual Insurance

The company is a smaller, regional insurer that offers Des Moines homeowners multiple plan and coverage options at an affordable price, with rates typically below the state average.

Learn more
West Bend Mutual Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Car Insurance in Des Moines, IA

West Bend Mutual Insurance

This smaller regional company offers a competitive insurance bundle with rates well below the state average for Des Moines drivers. They also have a variety of competitive discounts for extra savings.

Learn more

7. Columbus, Ohio

The Columbus, Ohio skyline

Image source: Getty Images

Columbus is the capital of Ohio and is located in the state's center. The city is home to Ohio State University, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, notable museums like the Columbus Museum of Art, and plenty of great restaurants. Columbus has something for everyone, whether you're a sports fan, history buff, or foodie. The average home price is well below the national average. Residents of Columbus, on average, pay lower car insurance premiums than Ohio's state average. Home insurance premiums are comparable to those of other major cities in the state.

  • Average home price: $274,100
  • Median car insurance premium: $1,607 per year
  • Average home insurance premium: $1,403 per year
Looking to move? Consider these editors' choice offerings
Huntington Bank

Editors' Choice: Best Bank in Columbus, OH

Huntington Bank

Columbus is the home of Huntington Bank, which offers a wide range of banking services to suit a variety of needs. It has competitive rates and benefits for customers who open more than one account.

Learn more
First Service Federal Credit Union

Editors' Choice: Best Credit Union in Columbus, OH

First Service Federal Credit Union

The focus that First Service Federal Credit Union has on the Ohio area is unparalleled. Whether online or in person, First Service has the banking solution you need.

Learn more
Rocket Mortgage®

Editors' Choice: Best Mortgage Lender in Columbus, OH

Rocket Mortgage®

Rating image, 5.0 out of 5 stars.
5.0/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Rocket Mortgage consistently ends up at No. 1 on the J.D. Power customer satisfaction survey. Also, after searching through Columbus lenders, Rocket is the clear winner in terms of convenience and super-fast closings.

Read full review
Erie Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Car Insurance in Columbus, OH

Erie Insurance

Flexible coverage options and multiple discounts give Columbus drivers rates typically well below the state average with this company. Customers are also happy, as J.D. Power ranks this insurer second for car claims satisfaction nationwide.

Learn more
Erie Homeowners Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Homeowners Insurance in Columbus, OH

Erie Homeowners Insurance

Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Erie provides a flexible range of coverage options for Columbus homeowners, with rates frequently below the state average. This mid-sized insurer has a broad network of local agents and receives high marks for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power.

Read full review

8. Indianapolis, Indiana

the Indianapolis Indiana skyline

Image source: Getty Images

Indianapolis is Indiana's state capital as well as its most populous city. Recently named a Top Five Beer City by USA Today readers, Indianapolis is well known for its local breweries and distilleries. But there are also many other attractions to enjoy, including the Indianapolis Zoo, White River State Park, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where 300,000 racing fans come to see the Indy 500 each May. Indianapolis also offers affordable childcare, although home prices are higher than in many other cities across the midwest.

  • Average home price: $260,500
  • Median car insurance premium: $1,845
  • Average home insurance premium: $1,935
Looking to move? Consider these editors' choice offerings

Editors' Choice: Best Bank in Indianapolis, IN

CIT

Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

CIT's competitive rates and no-fee options will appeal to savings and checking customers alike. To qualify for its higher savings rate tier, customers need to make regular deposits or maintain a minimum balance.

Read full review
Centra Credit Union

Editors' Choice: Best Credit Union in Indianapolis, IN

Centra Credit Union

Centra can handle all of your banking needs with ease, but also pay close attention to their mortgage rates. They're some of the lowest we've seen.

Learn more
Fifth Third Bank

Editors' Choice: Best Mortgage Lender in Indianapolis, IN

Fifth Third Bank

Fifth Third won because they are so easy to work with. The bank's number of loan options and competitive rates (especially for those with strong credit) make it one of the best in the area.

Learn more
Indiana Farmers Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Home Insurance in Indianapolis, IN

Indiana Farmers Insurance

This small regional insurer caters to Indianapolis homeowners with a variety of discounts and coverage options, and their rates frequently come in below the state average.

Learn more
State Farm

Editors' Choice: Best Car Insurance in Indianapolis, IN

State Farm

Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Drivers in Indianapolis can get great regional service, discounts, and a range of coverage options from this insurer, and rates usually come in below the state average. Customer service is anything but average, however, as they're ranked third for overall car insurance satisfaction by J.D. Power.

Read full review

9. St. Louis, Missouri

The St Louis skyline

Image source: Getty Images

St. Louis is the second-largest city in Missouri. Located in the Eastern part of the state, St. Louis sits near the confluence of the Mississippi and the Missouri Rivers. The city is famous for its beer, baseball, and St. Louis-style barbeque ribs. It's also home to the nation's tallest monument, The Gateway Arch. Can't-miss attractions include the St. Louis Zoo, Missouri Botanical Gardens, and Forest Park. Public transportation options are plentiful, so having a vehicle isn't a necessity. The cost of living in St. Louis is lower than the national average. Home insurance rates in St. Louis are slightly below the state average.

  • Average home price: $226,100
  • Median car insurance premium: $3,017 per year
  • Average home insurance premium: $2,501 per year
Looking to move? Consider these editors' choice offerings
Commercial Bank

Editors' Choice: Best Bank in St. Louis, MO

Commercial Bank

Commercial Bank's high interest checking account is a real draw. There are no monthly fees, and customers can qualify for one of the highest APYs around if they opt for electronic statements, make a set number of debit card transactions, and at least one monthly direct deposit.

Learn more
First Community

Editors' Choice: Best Credit Union in St. Louis, MO

First Community

First Community can handle all of your personal banking needs, from checking accounts to home loans to investment services; and all while being a standing in the community.

Learn more
Guild Mortgage

Editors' Choice: Best Mortgage Lender in St. Louis, MO

Guild Mortgage

Rating image, 3.5 out of 5 stars.
3.5/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

A reputation for exceptional service and a ton of mortgage loan programs puts Guild at the top of the list.

Read full review
State Farm

Editors' Choice: Best Homeowners Insurance in St. Louis, MO

State Farm

Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Even though it's a national brand, State Farm is our winner for the St. Louis area. The diversity of loan options coupled with the low rates just can't be beat in the area.

Read full review
State Farm

Editors' Choice: Best Car Insurance in St. Louis, MO

State Farm

Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Though nationwide, this company beats out many regional alternatives for St. Louis drivers, providing flexible coverage options and discounts with rates below the state average. They're also rated third in the country by J.D. Power for overall car insurance customer satisfaction.

Read full review

10. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The Milwaukee, Wisconsin skyline

Image source: Getty Images

Milwaukee is a city on the shores of Lake Michigan that balances both blue-collar roots and youthful modernity. It has a diverse population, a variety of restaurants, and a walkable downtown with plenty of accessible public transit options. Milwaukee is home to several art museums and galleries, along with lots of outdoor murals and street art. The city is well-known for its breweries, and residents and visitors alike can enjoy a beer while taking in breathtaking lakeside views. Milwaukee's cost of living is lower than the national average, and car insurance costs are below Wisconsin's average.

  • Average home price: $319,000
  • Median car insurance premium: $2,145 per year
  • Average home insurance premium: $1,062 per year
Looking to move? Consider these editors' choice offerings

Editors' Choice: Best Bank in Milwaukee, WI

Quontic

Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

Quontic is a national brand, but its rates, terms, selection, and convenience can't be beat in the Milwaukee area.

Read full review
Advia Credit Union

Editors' Choice: Best Credit Union in Milwaukee, WI

Advia Credit Union

Advia has extremely competitive interest rates, particularly on its interest-earning checking account. Plus, it doesn't charge a monthly fee or have any minimum balance requirements. Anyone who lives or works in Milwaukee can apply to join Advia Credit Union.

Learn more
Wisconsin Wholesale Mortgage

Editors' Choice: Best Mortgage Lenders in Milwaukee, WI

Wisconsin Wholesale Mortgage

With low rates, easy-to-use online tools, and stellar customer service, Wisconsin Wholesale Mortgage was clearly a winner.

Learn more
Erie Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Car Insurance in Milwaukee, WI

Erie Insurance

Milwaukee drivers can get customizable options and competitive discounts with this company, and rates are often below the state average. Customer service doesn't suffer, though, as the company regularly rates in the top three for J.D. Power surveys on car claims satisfaction.

Learn more
Erie Homeowners Insurance

Editors' Choice: Best Homeowners Insurance in Milwaukee, WI

Erie Homeowners Insurance

Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor

This regional company has multiple coverage options to suit a variety of Milwaukee homeowners. Rates are often well below the state average and they are very highly rated by J.D. Power for customer satisfaction.

Read full review

Methodology

Home prices

Home price data are sourced from the National Association of Realtors at either the city- or MSA-level. Median sales price of existing single-family homes from the first quarter of 2022 is used.

Homeowners insurance

Homeowners insurance data are sourced from Quadrant. Data is from August 2020.

Car insurance

Car insurance data are sourced from Quadrant. Data is from January 2022.

Cost of living

Cost of living data are sourced from The Council for Community and Economic Research. 2021 averages are used.

Social equity

To get a rough measure of each city's social equity, we used the sum of seven factors.

Not every city had available data points for every factor. In the article, we’ve noted where a city is missing more than two data points.

There are some differences in how social equity scores are calculated for this article:

  • County-level broadband data is used for the following cities: Sioux Falls, Fargo, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport.
  • State-level homelessness data is used for the following cities: Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Fargo, Fort Wayne, and Sioux Falls.
  • Healthcare scores are calculated using the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Healthy Marketplace Index. This index is based on an analysis of 1.8 billion healthcare claims from 2015 through 2019 for individuals with commercial health insurance. The index measures healthcare prices in metro areas relative to the national median.

Final score

We took each city's average score across all social equity factors and added their homeowners insurance score, home price score, car insurance score, and cost of living score to arrive at a total score.

Sources

Best Midwest Cities for Millennials award banner