After living in Gainesville and Florida for the last 15 years, it is easy to see why we are getting a lot of attention as one of the best places to live, play and work. Lots of places say they are the best, but that doesn't really help you capture what makes Gainesville and Alachua County such a great place. Here's my two cents:

That old real estate adage holds true: location, location, location. We are less than two hours from great beaches in St. Augustine, an hour to great sport fishing in Cedar Key, two hours to Orlando and all the theme parks, two hours to Tampa, five hours to Atlanta or Miami.

We are a small town with big city attractions. With just 300,000 people in our metro area (Gainesville and the surrounding cities and Alachua County) but yet we have world class institutions: University of Florida, Santa Fe Community College, and Shands at UF. Because of this we have a thriving restaurant scene, vibrant performing arts, and great sports. It is hard to argue with National Titles in Basketball and Football.  

Gainesville is dynamic and energetic. You can't miss the energy of 70,000 college students. It makes for great nightlife and also adds to the flavor of the city. Whether it is a new play or new medical discovery, the possibilities are endless and that brings a sense of excitement. The tangible results could be the new Cancer and Genetics Research Complex, a new business in Progress Park or a new species discovered in a local fossil dig.

Diversity: not just a buzz word in a college class. In Gainesville the word diversity is proof that different cultures and people make for a great place to live. The University of Florida attracts a very diverse mix of faculty and students from around the world. In turn it creates an open and accepting place to live. Without this rich mix of cultures and people it would be surprising if we would have the Indian Cultural Center or the Korean BBQ restaurant. But we are lucky we do.

But why take my word on it? Here is a list of recent rankings that also think Gainesville is a great place!