What determines where you would like to live? Job opportunities, family, cost of living, and other factors play a part. You also want to live in a community where you feel accepted and safe. To that end, let’s check out five of the most gay-friendly cities in America.
Where should you live if you’re gay?
The truth is that you should live where you want to. More Americans than ever are accepting of the LGBTQ community.
However, there are still some areas of the country where you’ll find it easier to live. Some places have a higher concentration of queer individuals if you’re looking for love (or simply like-minded friends). Plus, there are more amenities targeted to the gay community.
You probably already know about the famous hotspot, San Francisco, where 1.52% of the cities’ married couples are not heterosexual. To dig deeper, let’s take a look at five of the most LGBT-friendly cities in the U.S.
Work with a Partner Agent to move to one of these LGBT-friendly cities.
1. Portland, OR
Nestled in the forests of the Northwestern U.S., Portland is a great option for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The good news for you is that over 5% of the population identify as LGBTQ.
In 2008, the residents elected Sam Adams, an openly gay man, as their mayor. This act gave Portland the distinction of being the first major US city to have a gay mayor.
The city doesn't have a specific gayborhood as many other places do, but some say there is no need for one. The entire city is welcoming enough to the LGBT community that gay residents can feel comfortable virtually anywhere.
2. Austin, TX
Too rainy up in Portland? How about Austin, Texas? This city also has a gay population of over 5%. The weather is warm and inviting and there is a low crime rate, which is always a plus.
There are plenty of art and culture events that you can take part in. Some of these are aimed specifically at the gay community — like the annual gay pride festival and parade.
There is a strong support network for gay residents living in the city. They even have the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce. This group was formed back in 1997 to support gay activities and businesses.
3. Ft. Lauderdale, FL
What's not to love about Florida? Well, maybe the occasional hurricane, but for the most part, the weather is pleasant in Florida.
The climate for gays is also warm and inviting. Ft. Lauderdale is an excellent choice for big city living. after all, it is the 10th largest city in the entire U.S.
The city is rife with gay-friendly bars, restaurants, and businesses — making it a happening place for gay residents. There are even parks and beaches set aside specifically for the LGBT community.
Pride Center Florida has been serving the city for over 25 years. They provide support and seek to meet health, social, and safety needs for the LGBT community.
4. Providence, RI
Providence is home to a thriving LGBT population that makes up 4.4% of the city’s residents. The city prides itself on having been founded on the pillars of tolerance and respect and upholding those values to this day.
If you feel bored in this city, it is because you want to be. There are a plethora of gay-friendly bars and restaurants and pride-related activities happening all the time all over the city.
There are various civil rights organizations in the city that provide support and promote rights for the LGBT community. Haley Star, a YouTube drag queen, even serves as the “glambassador” for the Providence Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau.
5. Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia boasts an LGBT population of just under 4%. A lively Gayborhood provides plenty of entertainment and nightlife options for gay-friendly activities. Philadelphia is an inviting and safe place to live with its low crime rate and rare occurrence of hate crimes against LGBT individuals.
There are several civil rights and LGBT youth organizations that provide support to the LGBT community. In fact, the LGBT civil rights movement in Philadelphia is one of the oldest in the nation, having gotten its start over 50 years ago.
Finding a Gay-Friendly Home
Looking for more specific information about a city or town? The best way to find it is by talking to a local expert.
Let us help get you in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find a home where you feel comfortable and safe. There is little that is more important than feeling accepted by the surrounding community.
Clever partners with realtors offering top-notch services. We can connect you with a realtor best suited to your needs far more efficiently than simply finding a realtor on the Internet.
Even better, Clever Partner Agents can help you save money on your real estate transaction. You may be wondering how, since buyers typically don’t pay agent commissions, anyway.
First, they are agents with integrity who have your best interests in mind. Since their commission is based on a percentage, some agents may not work as hard to get you the best price. Our Partner Agents put customer satisfaction first.
Want to learn more about this great opportunity? Get in touch with us today!