Chicago
Rank: 28
Population: 2,679,998

The Windy City, America’s third-largest metropolis, would rank much higher if it were evaluated purely on its strong universities and thriving entertainment. Chicago is as hot as any city, thanks to its fine dining in such neighborhoods as Lincoln Park, nightlife in its more than 800 bars, and strong acting chops honed at such places as Second City and the Steppenwolf Theatre Co. To climb higher in the list, however, Chicago must address its increasing gang violence and high crime, as well as poor air quality and major economic issues.

Bars: 807
Restaurants: 6,438
Museums: 76
Libraries: 99
Pro sports teams: 8
Park acres per 1,000 residents: 4
Colleges: 42
Percent with graduate degree: 9.3
Median household income: $56,121
Percent unemployed: 9.8