The city of Liberty, Missouri, has been named to the number 7 slot on CNN/Money Magazine’s ‘Best Places to Live’ ranking for 2011. Reporter Vanessa Richardson cited William Jewell College and the Liberty School District among the city’s top assets. “William Jewell College, with its lovely hilltop campus overlooking Liberty, lets residents take advantage of many cultural offerings,” Richardson wrote.
 
“These terrific small towns stand out in the qualities American families care about most--great job opportunities, top-notch schools, safe streets, economic strength, nice weather, plenty to do, and more,” the report noted.
 
In July, Liberty claimed the number 3 slot in Family Circle’s “Best Towns and Cities for Families.”
 
“We are excited that Liberty is now being recognized at the national level,” said Liberty Mayor and William Jewell College alumnus Greg Canuteson.“We have known for a long time that Liberty is a great place to live, work and raise a family. We are proud of this top 10 ranking and believe it simply reflects the outstanding people who live here.”
 
The CNN/Money ranking of communities under 50,000 in population is conducted every two years. Liberty made it to the top 10 this year after being listed 29th in 2009 and 67th in 2007.
 
According to the CNN/Money website, the rankings started with 3,570 communities with populations between 8,500 and 50,000 before paring the list down in phases. Looking at such factors as income, education scores, crime rates, economic conditions and other quality of life criteria, the publication narrowed the list down to the top 35. These 35 communities, including Liberty, received visits in which writers interviewed residents, assessed traffic, parks and gathering places, and considered intangibles like community spirit.
 
For more information, visit the City of Liberty’s web site at www.ci.liberty.mo.us/BestPlacestoLive