The top 10 cities with the best downtowns in the US

Alexandria, Virginia has been named the best downtown in America in a new list looking at small to mid-size cities.

Livability.com, a community marketing agency, released their list of The Top 10 Best Downtowns 2016, giving Alexandria the top spot over 2,000 cities.

Using data from the US Census Bureau, US Department of Agriculture and mapping company Esri, analysts whittled down the list by looking at vacancy rates, new development, migration rates, cultural attractions, nightlife, walkability, affordability and diversity.

Alexandria topped the list for its lively and historic Old Town that teems with tourists, shoppers and locals alike.

Brick-lined streets also boast boutiques, shops, bars, pubs, restaurants and historic architecture.

Here are the top 10 downtowns in the US, according to Livability.com:

1. Alexandria, VA
2. Santa Monica, CA
3. Greenville, SC
4. Bellevue, WA
5. Pittsburgh, PA
6. Boise, ID
7. Tempe, AZ
8. Plano, TX
9. Colorado Springs, CO
10. Evanston, IL