The national magazine used New York research firm OnBoard to look at 1,850 cities with populations between 15,000 and 150,000 and an average annual income of $65,000. Using family-friendly criteria that included cost of living, availability of jobs and quality of schools, the list was whittled down to 800 cities, which were ranked according to their states. The highest-rated communities in the top 10 states were named the winners.

The news of Rocklin's selection didn't surprise 43-year-old mom Laura Cronin, who moved there with her husband 18 years ago.

"We were living in L.A., and we weren't going to stay, but we got here and loved it," Cronin said. "It's just a great place to raise kids. It's very family-oriented."

The Cronins bought a house on a cul-de-sac in a neighborhood they still love within walking distance of their children's school.

"Our neighbors are great, and that's one of the reasons we're still in the same house. The kids can go outside and play, and we know it's safe," Cronin said. "The schools are wonderful, and the stores and shops are all new."

Storey said City Council and city staff members work hard to provide family-oriented activities and that Rocklin residents are known for their contributions to community service organizations.

"This (honor) really represents what this community is about," he said. "It's not a slogan. … People move to Rocklin because it's a great place to live and raise your kids, so it's nice to have that validation."

In addition to the quality of schools and the availability of jobs, Family Circle also considered how environmentally friendly the cities are. Rocklin was the first city in California to participate in Pacific Gas and Electric Co.'s ClimateSmart program. By paying an additional amount for its monthly gas and electricity usage, the city helps fund projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In 2006, Rocklin also installed solar panels at the Police Department headquarters, reducing energy costs by 40 percent.

Other towns that made Family Circle's top 10 list include South Burlington, Vt.; Oro Valley, Ariz.; Brunswick, Ohio; Shoreview, Minn.; Wheeling, Ill.; Webster Groves, Mo.; Broken Arrow, Okla.; Royal Palm Beach, Fla.; and Ankeny, Iowa.

Sacramento Bee, Thursday, July 17, 2008
Story appeared in SOUTH PLACER ROSEVILLE section, Page G9