15 Most Livable U.S. Cities in 2025 — The Real Cost of Calling Them Home

2. Chattanooga, Tennessee: The Scenic City's Gig-Powered Renaissance

Nestled by the Tennessee River, Chattanooga has reinvented itself from an industrial past into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and tech innovators, powered by nation-leading internet speeds. Its 2025 livability shines through affordable housing (a rare find!), stunning natural beauty like Lookout Mountain, and a walkable downtown pulsating with art and local flavor. The "real cost" is embracing a community that values both its heritage and forward-thinking initiatives. It’s a place where you can hike epic trails in the morning and brainstorm at a startup in the afternoon, proving progress and nature can beautifully coexist.