Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that Pittsburgh received yet another top livability rating – this time ranking number four out of 100 cities in Parents Magazine first ever comprehensive survey identifying the top ten cities to raise babies.

“Time and time again Pittsburgh consistently makes it to the top of the list,” Ravenstahl said. “This latest rating is especially exciting, because it recognizes our efforts to keep and attract young families. From recreational opportunities, to the Pittsburgh Promise, we need to stay energized and keep spreading the word that Pittsburgh is a great place for young families.”

According to the magazine, the ten top cities were chosen based on a combination of 35 factors determined to be important by pediatric experts and mothers. Those factors included:  affordable housing, safety, good neighbors, access to pediatricians and babysitters, and recreation opportunities.  In addition, Parents contacted governments and non-profits to obtain data related to an area’s future livability.

Pittsburgh was lauded for its Pittsburgh Promise scholarship program and received an “A+” for affordability.

“Parents Magazine contacted us, telling us we were high on the list,” Ravenstahl said. “When we told them about the Pittsburgh Promise, they were even more excited about our City’s commitment to families and affordability.”

“I am thrilled, but not surprised, by this new honor,” said Saleem Ghubril, Pittsburgh Promise executive director .  “As a parent who raised two kids in our city, I know firsthand about how great our town is.  You add diverse  neighborhoods, creative people, healthy economy, good public education, and the promise of a college scholarship, and you undoubtedly have a top place for families to raise their kids.”

The results of the comprehensive survey, as well as a complete listing of the cities ranked 11-100, will appear in the November 2010 issue of Parents.

“Babies aren't fussy about their zip code. But for moms and dads, their hometown during those important early years of parenthood can make a big difference in quality of life,” says Dana Points, editor in chief of Parents. “Affordable, active and easy to get around, our Top Ten Cities for Babies are the perfect spots for young families.”

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According to the Parents survey, the 10 Best Cities for Babies are:

1. Scottsdale, Arizona
2. Fort Wayne, Indiana
3. Lincoln, Nebraska
4. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
5. Portland, Oregon
6. Madison, Wisconsin
7. Phoenix, Arizona
8. St. Paul, Minnesota
9. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
10. Boston, Massachusetts

 

 For a slide show featuring all of Parents Ten Best cities, go to: http://www.parents.com/parenting/money/buy-a-house/the-10-best-cities-for-babies/

For a complete list of the cities ranked 11-100, go to:

http://www.parents.com/parenting/money/buy-a-house/90-of-the-best-cities-for-babies/

 

Survey Methodology:

Parentsused U.S. Census information to assemble an initial list of the 100 most populated U.S. cities.  Each of those cities was then assessed using 35 predetermined factors that young families should consider when deciding where to live.  These factors were suggested by pediatric experts such as pediatricians and childhood development experts as well as mommy bloggers.  Parents then contacted government sources and non-profit organizations and conducted independent reporting to obtain the data for each city.  The overall rankings represent how well the cities met all of our family friendly criteria.

About Parents:

Parents, published monthly by Meredith Corporation, has been America's #1 family magazine for more than 80 years. Since its inception in 1926, it has been a trusted source by every generation of parents.  Currently, the magazine is a powerful community of nearly 16 million readers devoted to supporting the efforts of parents, educators and other citizens who strive to make the world a better place for our children. Parents can be found online at www.parents.com.