America is the land of opportunity, freedom, and prosperity. The United States is also one of the wealthiest nations in the history of the world. Like most countries, some areas of the U.S. are richer and better off than others. Today, we’re breaking down the wealthiest cities in the U.S. and looking at some of the factors making these cities richer than others.
So, where in the nation can you find America’s wealthiest? StudyFinds did the research, consulting nine news and economic websites in an effort to discover the seven wealthiest cities in the U.S. Our list comprises the seven most frequently listed cities from across these sites. Think we missed a few cities? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
The List: Top 7 Wealthiest Cities in the U.S., According to Experts
1. Atherton, California
The top spot on the list of the wealthiest cities in the U.S. belongs to Atherton, California. Atherton is located just outside of Silicon Valley, and directly between San Francisco and San Jose, making it one of the most prominent cities in the country. As Nest Apple explains, Atherton’s median household income is well over $500,000, which is nearly seven times higher than the national average of around $69,000.
Atherton’s average household income isn’t the only reason this quaint little town is considered the wealthiest city in America, notes HGTV. A range of wealthy individuals call Atherton home from tech moguls such as Facebook’s CEO to NBA stars such as Golden State’s Steph Curry.
As Property Club highlights, Atherton is an exclusive place to live with strict zoning rules that cater to its residents. Atherton is home to less than 8,000 residents and property values are exponential here. Since Atherton is situated right in the middle of San Francisco and San Jose, residents have easy access to both of these thriving metropolitan areas.
2. McLean, Virginia
The next spot on the list of the wealthiest cities in America takes us back across the country to the East Coast and McLean, Virginia. This suburb of Washington, D.C. is one of the most exclusive cities in the country with a steep median household income, high property values, and a lot of good-paying jobs. As Consumers Advocate notes, McLean, Virginia is home to politicians, executives, and diplomats alike.
McLean is located in Virginia’s Fairfax County, which is renowned for its school system, notes Veranda. McLean sits just across the Potomac River from Potomac, Maryland, another extremely affluent and wealthy city. McLean is also just on the outskirts of the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. All of these factors dictate some of the highest home values in the nation at an average of over $1 million.
McLean is home to several large companies such as USA Today and Freddie Mac. The presence of high-paying jobs, the proximity to the capital, and the overwhelming number of luxury jewelry and high-end clothing stores all contribute to a pricey way of life in McLean, Virginia, furthers Movoto.
