For those of us that love the mountains and wild backcountry, living in a mountain town is the dream. Fresh air, glorious scenery, a thriving outdoor scene and access to trails, slopes and superb places to camp are just some of the reasons escaping life in the city and putting down roots in a mountain town is so appealing.
A study published in 2025 has revealed the best American mountain towns as of 2024. Using the key metrics of weather, affordability and quality of life, it has arrived at a league table of villages, towns and cities right across the great mountain ranges and wilderness areas of the United States – and with frankly surprising results.
