Northfield, MN – May 24, 2024 - The Community of Northfield has been honored as one of the Best Places to Live in 2024 by Money.com, thanks to its commitment to livability, equity, and sustainability. This accolade reflects Northfield's thriving job market, affordable housing, excellent public schools, and strong community spirit.
 
Unlike previous years, where a predetermined dataset was used, this year's list was crafted from the ground up through comprehensive research and reporting. Key metrics included the health of the local job market, average housing costs, the percentage of residents in poverty, and the quality of public schools. Northfield stood out for its holistic approach to community development and its vibrant local culture. “The City of Northfield is honored to receive this designation”, said Northfield Mayor Rhonda Pownell.  “Northfield’s enduring strength is rooted in its people--the passion, creativity and goodwill between neighbors that has made this community thrive for decades.  Through our strategic planning process, we remain committed to being forward-thinking in enhancing the quality of life for all Northfield residents and those who visit.”
 
During the selection process, Northfield was compared against a range of metrics and benefited from insights provided by public policy and industry advocacy groups, such as the American Planning Association, Brookings, and Main Street America. Data from Moody’s Analytics, SchoolDigger, Realtor.com, the St. Louis Federal Reserve, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics further substantiated Northfield's position as a top place to live.
 
Jane Bartho, President of the Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, added, "Our business community has played a pivotal role in creating a vibrant and resilient local economy. This recognition is a testament to the collaboration and innovation of our local businesses, which continue to thrive and contribute to the high quality of life in Northfield." She added, "Northfield’s charm and character, coupled with our rich cultural heritage and welcoming atmosphere, make it a wonderful destination for tourists. We are excited to see this recognition attract even more visitors to experience all that our city has to offer."
 
Northfield's inclusion in the list highlights its unique identity and strengths, aligning with Money's new categorization approach that eschews numerical rankings in favor of spotlighting specific qualities. Northfield shines in the "Suburbs with a Soul" category, celebrating its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community life.
 
The Community of Northfield is honored to be recognized as one of the Best Places to Live in 2024, reflecting its ongoing commitment to creating a livable, equitable, and sustainable community. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to experience the charm and vitality that make Northfield a standout city.
 
About Northfield, MN: Northfield is a charming city located in southeastern Minnesota, known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and strong community values. With a population of approximately 20,000, Northfield offers a high quality of life with excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a thriving downtown area.