Knoxville has been included in Kiplinger's "10 Best Value Cities for 2011" joining cities ranging in size from Cincinnati and Charlotte to Cedar Rapids and Colorado Springs.

Knoxville was ranked fifth on this year's list that "focuses on metro areas with vibrant economies, reasonable living costs and great amenities." According to Kiplinger the common threads binding the top ten cities were partnerships that created business environments that attract good companies, low housing costs and quality of life.

"It's always great to be recognized as a great place to live," said Mayor Daniel Brown. "Knoxville has been included on several best of lists in the last few years and we're always pleased when that happens.

"At the same time as a city government we don't ever take those recognitions for granted. We want to keep doing things that make Knoxville an even better place for all of us to live," he added.

A sidebar about Knoxville credited a rejuvenated downtown and a thriving entertainment scene, in addition to the low housing, tax and utility costs as being among the elements contributing to the city's making the list. It opened by noting Knoxville, "offers college sports, the Smoky Mountains and an entrepreneurial spirit."

All ten cities are located in the South or Midwest.

Omaha topped the list followed by Charlotte, Nashville, Colorado Springs, Knoxville, Lexington, Little Rock, Wichita, Cedar Rapids and Cincinnati.

Kiplinger is a publishing company that concentrating on business and personal finance. Its products include a magazine, several newsletters focusing on specific business areas, financial guides and a website among other offerings. The list is at http://kiplinger.com/slideshow/best-value-cities-2011/1.html.