These Pennsylvania, New Jersey small cities rank in 'Top 20 in US'

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PENNSYLVANIA - A new study from WalletHub names two small cities in Pennsylvania and New Jersey among the top 20 places to live in the country.

Best small cities in the US

What we know:

The analysis looked at more than 1,300 U.S. cities with populations between 25,000 and 100,000. WalletHub ranked the small cities on more than 40 factors: affordability, economic health, education and health, quality of life and safety.

"Not everyone craves the bright lights and crowded spaces of big cities. In fact, almost half of Americans (47%) say they would prefer to live in the suburbs, compared to 24% for urban areas and 23% for rural communities," the report said.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, secured the No. 17 spot. Known for its blend of history, culture, and revitalized downtown, the city scored well across quality-of-life categories and affordability.

Fair Lawn, New Jersey, ranked No. 20. The Bergen County community sits just outside New York City and is recognized for its schools, family-friendly neighborhoods and access to public transit. 

The Top 20 small cities in the US, according to WalletHub

1. Carmel, Indiana
2. Brookfield, Wisconsin
3. Apex, North Carolina
4. Lexington, Massachusetts
5. Westfield, Indiana
6. Fishers, Indiana
7. Brentwood, Tennessee
8. Saratoga Springs, New York
9. Appleton, Wisconsin
10. Lehi, Utah
11. Leesburg, Virginia
12. Arlington, Massachusetts
13. Kaysville, Utah
14. Castle Rock, Colorado
15. Franklin, Tennessee
16. Milton, Massachusetts
17. Lancaster, Pennsylvania
18. Holland, Michigan
19. Noblesville, Indiana
20. Fair Lawn, New Jersey