Staff

U.S. News & World Report has named Loveland one of the top 10 places to live for 2009.

The city ranked alongside other Western cities such as Albuquerque, N.M., Boise, Idaho, and San Luis Obispo, Calif.

The inaugural rankings were announced Tuesday and will be featured in the July magazine.

Loveland Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Brian Willms said the ranking goes along with the positive national press the city has received lately.

“It doesn’t surprise me because of all the great things we have to offer with the arts, culture and recreation, and it’s a great business community,” Willms said.

He also cited factors such as the region’s strong work force, available commercial space, education, research and development growth, and the burgeoning new energy economy as contributing to a great place to live.

The magazine highlighted Loveland traditions such as the Valentine remailing program along with its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, its parks and trails, and its sculpture industry and collection as reasons for making the listing.

Magazine editors also noted that housing affordability was important in this year’s rankings.

The “Best Places to Live,” selected by U.S. News editors, were chosen from 2,000 locations by examining factors including an area’s economy, cost of living, population, crime rate, and access to educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities, according to a magazine press release. All cities offer strong economies, low living costs and ample, affordable recreational activities, the editors said.

Loveland’s median home price of $186,000 was highlighted in the article.