Raising a child is challenging, significantly when you’re raising a special needs child. When looking for a new place to live, families with special needs children have to take into account more aspects than families without this particular situation. Besides the everyday wish-list items everyone wants, such as a safe location and the availability of entertainment options, families with special needs children must consider the accessibility of facilities and options for inclusive education.
Although nationwide efforts to accommodate special needs communities have been made, there’s a long way to go. Still, some cities excel in offering support for special needs children. We’ve compiled a list of the best places to live with special needs children in the US based on aspects such as economic environment, quality of life, and healthcare.
Top cities to live with a special needs child
All parents have similar goals when raising their children: to provide a safe and healthy environment for their growth, access to quality education that will lay the foundation for their future, and, of course, to make them feel loved and appreciated. The place you choose to live in significantly influences providing these things. If, for most parents, a safe neighborhood with plenty of amenities and a good school district is enough, a parent of a special needs child has a lot more to consider. They have to think about whether there are suitable healthcare institutions around, schools that provide inclusive education, and organizations where they can find additional support. Living in one of the top cities for special needs children enables parents to create the best environment for their children to develop and overcome their disability.
1. Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington, has long been well-known as an excellent place to raise a family. The city is extensive, with plenty of great job opportunities in different fields, a top-notch healthcare system, and various activities you can do with kids or teenagers. Moreover, Seattle is an excellent place to live for people from all walks of life who are facing different challenges. Most of the city's attractions and public institutions are equipped to enable disabled people to access them.
Seattle is also home to the renowned Center for Children with Special Needs, an outstanding special needs program at Seattle Children’s Hospital that has tried to improve the health of special needs children since 1998.
There are also many non-profit organizations concerned with the well-being of special needs children. One such organization is Northwest Center. Established in 1965 by a group of Seattle moms who wanted to demonstrate that their children could learn, the organization encourages inclusivity for disabled children. Its primary purpose is to empower disabled people throughout their lives to reach their full potential. If you’re thinking about making this city your home, contact one of the real estate agents in Seattle WA. They will help you find your dream home according to your family’s needs.
2. Laredo, Texas
Laredo, Texas, is an excellent place for families concerned about finances. As a family with a special needs child, one of the major concerns is future employment opportunities for your child and other financial realities they will face in life. Laredo provides its residents with an affordable cost of living, and the city is renowned for having a high employment rate for people with disabilities. Having a disability means you need a high-skilled medical force, and Laredo is concerned with the affordability of medical care services.
However, there aren't many special needs programs, and the city isn't very accessible due to its small size. Still, Laredo is expanding - it was the second fastest-growing city in the nation at one point in the 2000s! Parents want the best for their children, and Laredo excels in providing opportunities for professional growth.
3. Baltimore, Maryland
What Makes Maryland an excellent place to raise special needs children? To begin with, Maryland stands out among just eight states where more than 40% of its special needs population is successfully employed in competitive positions. This reflects positively on the effectiveness of its special needs programs, which rank very high compared to others.
Moreover, Baltimore boasts two highly esteemed special needs schools, namely the Kennedy Krieger School and the William S. Baer School, among others. Notably, the Kennedy Krieger School is widely recognized as the top institution of its kind in the entire country!
4. Orlando, Florida
Located in sunny south-central Florida, Orlando is a vibrant city renowned for its famous Disney World Theme Parks and much more. Every week, countless visitors flock to this bustling hub, and the city's professional staff goes above and beyond to cater to individuals with special needs.
What sets Orlando apart is its unwavering commitment to accessibility. From public spaces to services, the city takes comprehensive measures to ensure inclusivity. Whether it's navigating attractions or institutions, you'll find accommodations tailored to meet diverse needs, making Orlando an exceptional place to raise a child with special needs.
Beyond its accessibility initiatives, Orlando's climate adds another layer of appeal. Blessed with a predominantly warm and mild weather pattern, temperatures rarely dip below fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Orlando truly becomes a haven for families navigating the challenges of weakening disorders aggravated by cold weather. Also, the state of Florida is recognized for its excellent scholarships for special needs children, providing over $10,000 for children with specific disabilities.
5. Scottsdale, Arizona
Located within the Phoenix metro area, Scottsdale is often hailed as the most desirable city for families to settle down. Its reputation for providing a smooth and nurturing environment for raising children is well-earned. With an abundance of safe and welcoming suburbs, coupled with notably low crime rates, Scottsdale offers parents peace of mind.
One of Scottsdale's standout features is its exceptional educational system, recognized as among the best in Arizona. The Scottsdale Unified School District boasts top-notch schools prioritizing academic excellence and student well-being. Notably, the district serves approximately 2,300 children with disabilities, constituting 10 percent of its diverse student population. This dedication to inclusivity underscores Scottsdale's commitment to providing quality education for all.
Final thoughts
In the end, finding the right place to raise a special needs child is about more than just amenities - it's about creating a supportive environment where they can thrive. Each city has strengths: Seattle offers top-notch healthcare and inclusive programs; Laredo provides affordability and employment opportunities; Baltimore excels in employment and esteemed schools; Orlando prioritizes accessibility and a welcoming climate; and Scottsdale boasts outstanding education and inclusivity.
But beyond statistics, it's about finding a place where your family feels at home, where your child can grow and be supported. It's about considering what a city offers and how it fits your family's needs and values. So whether it's the bustling streets of Seattle or the warm sunshine of Orlando, the best city is the one that feels like home - a place where your family can thrive, no matter what challenges come your way.