‘There’s something for everyone’: Silver Spring named best place for families

SILVER SPRING, Md. ( DC News Now ) — Silver Spring was named the number one place to live for families in a recent Fortune Magazine ranking that analyzed over 2,000 American cities – an honor that’s no surprise to the people who live there.

The community sits just a few miles away from the epicenter of the nation’s capital and is one many residents in the area call welcoming and diverse.

“It’s lively, people are nice,” said Dora, who’s lived in Silver Spring for six years.

Residents touted the area as a melting pot of different cultures and its advanced infrastructure, which is geared towards helping disabled individuals.

“I’m just grateful to be here,” said Ben, who relies on his motorized chair to get around the area.

The double-leg amputee from Virginia chose Silver Spring as his new home because of its amenities, including reliable public transportation, an aquatic center blocks away from his home and the area’s “well-constructed ramps” that help him get to his destinations.

“It’s hard for me to get around but with all the accessory ramps and the way the curves and everything are made up, I can get in and out… It’s very convenient,” Ben told DC News Now.

In their rankings, Fortune Magazine cited Silver Spring’s vibrant food scene, diverse cultures and close proximity to venues like the Fillmore as some of the many reasons why the area is the number one spot for families to live.

“We’re recognized as one of the most generous communities in all of the United States with public amenities like recreation centers, libraries, wonderful parks, and open spaces,” said Jacob Newman, director of Silver Spring’s Regional Service Center. “There’s something for everyone in Silver Spring.”

Newman praised the city’s infrastructure aimed at helping people of all ages and its diverse setting that allows immigrants to showcase their culture through the various public events the area hosts.

The area is home to several shopping centers including Ellsworth Place which houses a kid center, several stores and restaurants.

“All the things you need are right here,” said Dora, who lives blocks away from Downtown Silver Spring. “Schools are good and it’s just a nice community to live in.”

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