TROY, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – No joke. Troy, Michigan was revealed to be one of the top ten best places to live in America. Some might think that such a coveted spot like that would go to someplace like Traverse City, Holland, Alpena or Paradise. Or somewhere with a higher profile.

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Not that Troy isn’t without its attractions, but it’s no “Paradise” with lighthouses, Lake Superior to the North, Hiawatha National Forrest to the South, Tahquamenon Falls State Park to the West, and Whitefish Bay to the East.

Troy, with a population of a little less than 87K, is about 30 minutes northwest of Detroit and about forty-five minutes from Lake St. Clair. And, as pointed out earlier – no lighthouses. Also no waterfalls and no Bear Ranch.

Nevertheless, livability.com released their list of the “Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S.” and Troy, Michigan came in at number ten. Their website says that Livability explores what makes small-to-medium sized cities great places to live. Through proprietary research studies, engaging articles and original photography and video, the website examines topics related to community amenities, education, sustainability, transportation, housing and the economy.

For the rankings, Livability only considered cities with a population between 75,000 and 500,000. Their Livability scores were based on amenities, economy, education, environment, health, housing, safety and transportation – plus providing an overall score.

The analysis cites Troy as offering residents “high-quality amenities and services” with a thriving local economy and dozens of major companies based there. They also list Troy as having highly-ranked schools, safe neighborhoods and upscale shopping. Livability also alleges that the housing prices in Troy are affordable, with homes coming in around $352,806.

Livability says about Troy, “For outdoorsy types there is a thousand acres of parkland in the city, as well as an abundance of lakes and streams and two golf courses.” They also list a nature center, skate board park, disc golf courses, tennis and basketball courts, soccer and baseball fields, and play and picnic areas.