Reno, Nevada has been named one of the "Happiest Places to Live in the U.S." in a recent analysis conducted by Outside Magazine.
The lifestyle publication released a list on September 18, highlighting cities that prioritize community, quality of life, and outdoor access. Based on these criteria, Reno emerged as the top choice.
Once renowned for its gambling and easy divorces, Reno has transformed into a modern boomtown. The city boasts a whitewater park, multiple climbing gyms, a month-long summer arts festival, craft breweries, and urban art installations inspired by the famous Burning Man event. According to Outside Magazine, Reno's abundant public land and mountainous surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking an active and vibrant lifestyle.
The analysis also took into account factors such as diversity and a commitment to combating climate change, both of which Reno excelled in. The city hosts an annual Pride celebration and offers a relatively affordable cost of living, with the added benefit of no state income tax. This has attracted companies with an outdoor focus, such as Patagonia, which has a presence in Reno's hip Midtown neighborhood. Major corporations like Amazon and Tesla have also recognized the city's potential and established operations there.
Reno's commitment to inclusivity was further highlighted by its perfect score of 100 on the "Municipal Equality Index Score" from the Human Rights Campaign. This index evaluates how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are for LGBTQ+ individuals residing and working in a particular city.
Outside Magazine explained that their analysis considered various factors, including the impact of climate change on each town, as well as inclusivity towards people of color and LGBTQ+ residents. The Municipal Equality Index score from the Human Rights Campaign and qualitative analysis of residents' posts on online forums were used to assess inclusivity. These factors, along with others, led to the selection of the final 15 happiest towns.
Diversity was also a significant factor in the inclusion of other cities on the list, such as New Orleans, Louisiana. The description of New Orleans highlighted its majority-Black population and the strong Indigenous influences evident in its culture and cuisine, including the famous dish gumbo. The city has long been a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals, with a high concentration of gay bars, including the historic Caf Lafitte in Exile located in the French Quarter.
According to the list, Reno's demographics consist of 60% White, 23% Latino, 7% Asian, 3% Black, and 7% other.
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