Cleanest Cities in America Fresh air, clean streets

West Jordan isn’t just clean; it’s meticulously maintained, which is why it snagged the #1 spot for America’s cleanest cities in 2026. The city’s public works team is famously efficient, and it shows everywhere from the spotless parks to the litter-free sidewalks.

The key advantage is a fantastic blend of affordability and stability. With a median household income of $105,396 and a cost of living index just below the national average at 96.4, your paycheck stretches further here than in Salt Lake City proper. The median home price sits at a relatively accessible $550,000, and the unemployment rate is a low 3.6%.

The catch, however, is the commute. If your job is downtown, you’ll be battling the 15-minute drive on Bangerter Highway, which can easily double with rush-hour traffic. The suburbs are also less culturally diverse than the urban core.

Insider tip: Check out the growing Jordan Landing area. It’s where locals go for shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering a walkable village feel that’s rare in the suburbs.

Best for: Families seeking a safe, clean, and financially stable suburban life with great schools.
Skip if: You crave a vibrant, diverse urban core or a short, predictable commute to downtown Salt Lake City.

West Valley City isn't the flashiest Utah city, but its #2 rank for "Cleanest Cities in America 2026" is no accident. With a population of 134,466, you get suburban space without feeling isolated from Salt Lake City's core, which is just a 15-minute drive down I-15.

The biggest draw is the value. The cost of living index sits at 96.4, meaning it's slightly below the national average, and a median home price of $480,000 is a stark contrast to the seven-figure price tags in nearby Salt Lake proper. A stable 3.6% unemployment rate and a median household income of $80,889 point to a healthy, working-family economy.

The catch? It's famously sprawling. You will drive everywhere, and public transit is limited. The violent crime rate (345 per 100k) is also higher than the state average, though it's largely concentrated in specific pockets. It’s clean, not crime-free.

Insider tip: The neighborhood around the West Valley City Recreation Center feels like a hidden gem—quieter, with well-kept parks and easy access to the Cultural Corridor.

Best for: Growing families seeking affordability, clean streets, and pragmatic living.
Skip if: You crave a walkable, urban vibe or are sensitive to urban sprawl.

So, Torrance landed at #3 for cleanest cities in America for 2026, and it’s not hard to see why. Forget the stereotypes of LA sprawl; this is a meticulously maintained city where the streets feel fresh and the parks are genuinely tidy. It’s a quiet, orderly pocket of the South Bay.

The key advantage is its stability. With a median household income of $109,019 and over half the population holding a bachelor's degree or higher, the community is educated and economically solid. The violent crime rate is a remarkably low 189 per 100k, making it feel incredibly secure for a city of its size.

But here’s the catch: you pay for that safety and cleanliness. The median home price is a staggering $1,232,000, and the cost of living index sits at 115.5—significantly above the national average. It’s not a place for bargain hunters.

Insider tip: Spend a Saturday morning at the Del Amo Fashion Center, not just for the shopping, but to see the sheer scale of Torrance’s commercial heart. Then, grab a coffee in Old Torrance to feel the older, more historic vibe.

Best for: Families and professionals seeking a safe, clean, suburban base with a short commute to LA's tech and aerospace hubs.
Skip if: You’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene or are priced out by the high cost of homeownership.

Burbank ranked #4 for America’s cleanest cities for a reason: it’s meticulously maintained, with a strong sense of civic pride. With a median household income of $91,926, the city invests heavily in upkeep, from pristine public spaces to responsive services.

Its biggest advantage is safety and a family-friendly vibe. At 289 violent crimes per 100k, it’s notably safer than many LA-adjacent areas. The unemployment rate sits at 5.5%, and over 45% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree, reflecting a stable, educated community. It’s a place where you can genuinely feel comfortable letting kids play outside.

The catch? It’s expensive. The median home price is a staggering $1,120,000, and even renting a one-bedroom apartment averages $2,252 a month. The cost of living index at 115.5 means you’re paying a premium for those clean streets and good schools.

Insider tip: The downtown Burbank area, especially near the Burbank Town Center, is the bustling heart of the city. It’s walkable, full of unique shops, and has a great farmers' market, but parking can be a nightmare on weekends.

Best for: Families and professionals seeking a safe, clean, and community-focused suburb with a strong local economy.
Skip if: You’re on a tight budget, crave a gritty/artsy urban vibe, or hate car-dependent living with a passion.

So you're eyeing Inglewood, the surprise #5 on the "Cleanest Cities" list? Don't let the stats scare you off. This is a city that's aggressively reinventing itself, and its gleaming new parks and streets are proof. The median household income sits at $72,900, which feels attainable compared to some L.A. neighbors, but the catch is the housing market: the median home price is a steep $749,000, and rent for a one-bedroom averages $2,252. That cost of living index of 115.5 means you're paying a premium for location and those pristine sidewalks.

The real insider tip is to think beyond the SoFi Stadium buzz. Spend a Saturday afternoon at the historic Inglewood Park Cemetery—it’s surprisingly peaceful and a local landmark—or explore the revitalized Market Street corridor for the best Ethiopian food in the South Bay. You'll feel the community pride, but be aware that the violent crime rate (678 per 100k) is something you'll need to navigate with street smarts.

Best for: A young professional or family seeking a vibrant, diverse community with major league sports at your doorstep and a genuine sense of civic pride.
Skip if: You're on a tight budget, crave absolute quiet, or are uncomfortable in a dense, urban environment where the cost of living is high.

Roseville shows up on those "cleanest cities" lists for a reason—it’s meticulously maintained, from the sparkling granite countertops downtown to the manicured parks. A big part of that is a median household income of $107,888, which funds robust public services.

The key advantage is the quality of life. You get a low violent crime rate of 234 per 100k and excellent schools, but the catch is the cost. A median home price of $625,000 is steep, and the 108.9 cost of living index means your paycheck won’t stretch as far as in other parts of Northern California.

Here’s an insider tip: Skip the generic big-box stores along the I-80 corridor and explore the historic Old Town district. It’s where locals grab a coffee and feel the city’s genuine character, away from the new suburban sprawl.

Best for: Families prioritizing safety, clean neighborhoods, and top-tier schools who have the budget to match.

Skip if: You’re a young professional on a tight budget or crave the gritty, eclectic vibe of a major urban core.

Spokane Valley didn’t crack the top 10 for "Cleanest Cities" by accident. It’s a place where you’ll see city crews pressure-washing sidewalks on a Tuesday morning, and the Spokane River’s banks are meticulously maintained. It offers a clean, suburban feel without being sterile.

The main draw is affordability. While the median home price is $407,336, the overall cost of living index sits at 101.0—just a hair above the national average, which is a steal compared to Seattle. It’s a practical choice for families, with a median household income of $74,787 and a low 4.6% unemployment rate. You get space, order, and stability.

The catch? The vibe is undeniably suburban. If you crave downtown energy, you’ll find it a bit quiet. The cultural scene and nightlife are modest, and you’ll be driving into Spokane proper for many events. It’s clean, but not particularly gritty or edgy.

Insider tip: Spend a Saturday morning at Mirabeau Point Park. It’s a local favorite for its sweeping river views and family-friendly trails, and it perfectly encapsulates the area’s outdoor ethos.

Best for: Families and remote workers prioritizing safety, cleanliness, and value over urban buzz.
Skip if: You're a young professional who needs walkable nightlife and a dense cultural scene.

So, you’re looking at Provo for its #8 cleanest city ranking? It’s not just hype. With a population of 113,355, it feels like a large town that’s kept its tidy habits. The air feels fresher, the streets are noticeably clear, and that low violent crime rate of 178 per 100k makes evening walks feel genuinely safe.

The biggest draw is the value. The median home price is $500,000, which is steep for Utah but feels like a bargain compared to major metros. The overall cost of living index is 95.0, below the national average, and a median 1-bedroom rent of $1,093 is still manageable for many. A low 3.6% unemployment rate also points to a stable job market, especially in tech and education.

But here’s the catch: the vibe is, well, homogenous. It’s a deeply religious community, and that culture permeates everything from social life to local ordinances. If you’re looking for a bustling, secular nightlife, you’ll be disappointed. It’s more about family-centric activities and outdoor adventures.

Insider Tip: For a slightly more diverse and lively scene, check out the shops and restaurants around Center Street in downtown Provo. It’s where you’ll find the best local coffee spots and a hint of urban energy.

Best for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a clean, safe, and affordable community with a strong sense of order.
Skip if: You’re seeking a vibrant, diverse social scene, a secular culture, or a bustling urban nightlife.

Surprise, AZ made the "Cleanest Cities in America" list for a reason: it's a master-planned community with wide, palm-lined streets and a serious commitment to parks. The city invests heavily in maintenance, and it shows.

Your money goes further here than in Scottsdale. The median home price is $419,495, and a one-bedroom apartment rents for about $1,424. The median household income of $89,560 supports a comfortable, middle-class lifestyle, though the overall cost of living is slightly above the national average at 105.5.

The catch? Surprise is quintessential suburbia. You'll be driving everywhere. The commute into Phoenix can be a haul on the Loop 303, and the city lacks a dense, walkable downtown core. It's quiet, sometimes to a fault if you crave urban energy.

Insider tip: The historic Surprise Farms neighborhood, near the original town center, has more character and mature landscaping than newer developments. Check out the local farmers' market there for a sense of community.

Best for: Families seeking safe, clean neighborhoods with good schools and plenty of parks.
Skip if: You're a young professional who thrives on nightlife, walkability, and a short commute.

You're eyeing Pasadena because it's ranked #10 for cleanest cities? Smart. It's not just the postcard-perfect Old Pasadena streets; it's a city that invests in its infrastructure. The median household income sits at $103,282, which fuels a robust public works department—think spotless parks and well-maintained public spaces. That cleanliness is a tangible benefit you feel daily.

But that pristine quality comes with a steep price tag. The median home price is a staggering $1,250,000, and the cost of living index is 115.5—significantly above the national average. You're paying a premium for those manicured medians and low crime (violent crime is 499.5 per 100k, which is manageable for a city its size). The catch? It can feel a bit buttoned-up; the vibrant, gritty energy of LA is just a 15-minute drive but feels a world away.

Here’s a local tip: Skip the chain stores in the Paseo Colorado and explore the soul of the city east of Lake Avenue. The neighborhood around the iconic Rose Bowl Loop is where you’ll find real community, with families and joggers sharing the space.

Best for: Professionals, families, and clean freaks who value safety and top-tier public schools and can comfortably afford the premium.

Skip if: You're on a tight budget, crave a 24/7 urban buzz, or are looking for a bargain.

Rio Rancho made the "cleanest cities" list for a reason: it’s a sprawling, master-planned suburb that prioritizes wide-open spaces and newer infrastructure. The median home price of $326,800 is a major draw, offering modern single-family homes for a fraction of what you'd pay in Albuquerque proper. With a median household income of $88,366 and a cost of living index of 93.0, the financial math works for many families.

But let's be honest: the clean, orderly vibe comes with a cost. This isn't a walkable, bustling urban core. You'll drive everywhere, often along the long corridors of Southern Boulevard, and the 45-minute commute into Albuquerque can wear on you. The violent crime rate, at 456 per 100k, is also something to research by neighborhood.

Insider tip: For more character and a genuine sense of community, look for homes in the older, northern part of the city near Cabezon Park, which feels less like a generic subdivision and more like a neighborhood.

Best for: Families seeking affordability, newer homes, and a quiet, suburban lifestyle.
Skip if: You crave a vibrant downtown, walkability, or a short, easy commute.

Fullerton’s clean-city ranking (#12 for 2026) isn’t a fluke; it’s the result of a community that genuinely cares. With a population of 139,254, it feels like a large suburb where your street still gets swept regularly. The median household income of $97,427 reflects a stable, educated populace, and the public schools are a major draw.

The biggest advantage is the balance. You get the civic pride and low violent crime (289 per 100k) without being isolated. However, the catch is the cost. The median home price of $952,500 is a steep barrier, and the overall cost of living index is 115.5—about 15% above the national average. A 1BR apartment will run you around $2,252.

Insider Tip: If you can swing it, look in the Amerige Heights area. It’s newer, impeccably maintained, and feels like the city’s cleanest neighborhood, but you’ll pay a premium.

Best for: Families seeking top-tier public schools and a quiet, orderly community with easy access to LA and OC beaches.
Skip if: You’re on a tight budget or crave a gritty, artsy, late-night urban vibe.

West Covina isn't a city that screams for attention, but its #13 ranking for cleanest cities in America for 2026 is no accident. It’s a place where suburban order is the real draw—a well-kept, family-oriented community that’s more about quiet pride than flashy headlines.

The key advantage here is stability. With a median household income of $96,525 and a median home price of $830,000, it offers a solid, middle-class suburban life. The local economy is decent, with an unemployment rate of 5.5%, and the schools in the Covina-Valley Unified School District are generally considered reliable. You get space, good public services, and a low-key vibe.

The catch? The cost of living is a significant hurdle. The index is 115.5, meaning everything from groceries to utilities is about 15% pricier than the national average. That median home price is steep, and a one-bedroom apartment will set you back around $2,252 a month. It’s not a city for bargain hunters or those seeking a vibrant, walkable urban core.

Insider tip: For a slightly more upscale feel with great views of the San Gabriel Mountains, look at the South Hills neighborhood. It’s known for its larger lots and winding streets.

Best for: Families seeking a safe, clean, and stable suburban environment with reliable schools.
Skip if: You crave nightlife, walkable amenities, or are on a tight budget.

Santa Clarita made the list for its pristine, sprawling parks and remarkably low pollution, but the real draw is its family-first vibe. With a median household income of $118,489 and a violent crime rate of just 189 per 100k, it feels like a safe, established suburb. The schools are solid, and you get more house for your money than in Los Angeles proper.

The catch? You pay for that safety and space. The median home price is $776,500, and the cost of living index sits at 115.5—about 15% above the national average. You'll also face the infamous 5-5 commute if you work in the valley; traffic on the I-5 can be brutal.

For a local feel, skip the big-box stores in Valencia and explore the Old Town Newhall district. It's got character, local eateries, and the historic Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society.

Best for: Growing families seeking safe, suburban life with good schools and outdoor access.

Skip if: You crave walkable urban energy, a low cost of living, or a short, easy commute to downtown LA.

Downey cracked the top 15 for cleanest cities in America, and you can feel it. The public parks are spotless, the streets are well-kept, and the overall vibe is orderly and calm. It’s a place where a sense of civic pride is visibly maintained.

With a median household income of $96,699 and a low unemployment rate of 5.5%, the city is economically stable. This translates to a well-funded community where you see the return in things like public services and amenities. The catch, however, is the cost of living. The index sits at 115.5, and the median home price is a steep $937,000. For a renter, a one-bedroom averages $2,252 a month. It’s not LA-level expensive, but it’s a significant financial commitment for a city that’s firmly suburban.

For a local tip, spend time in the historic Firestone neighborhood. It has a distinct character with its older, well-maintained homes and walkable streets that feel a world away from newer developments.

Best for: Families prioritizing safety and cleanliness who have a solid budget and don’t need a bustling urban core.
Skip if: You’re seeking a vibrant nightlife, a walkable downtown scene, or are priced out by the nearly $1M median home cost.