Bert T. Sperling: The Expert Behind America's Most Livable Cities
When people decide to move across the country, they often look for more than just a house; they look for a lifestyle. For decades, Bert T. Sperling has been the driving force behind the data that helps millions of Americans make these pivotal decisions. An author, demographer, and software programmer, Sperling has earned international recognition as an expert in urban quality of life.
From his early days in software engineering to the creation of one of the web's most trusted relocation resources, Sperling's career is defined by a commitment to objective, data-driven analysis of where and how we live.
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Key Facts
- Profession: Author, Demographer, Software Programmer, and Consultant.
- Major Contribution: Founder of BestPlaces.net, a free resource for relocation and academic research.
- Education: B.S. in Engineering from Oregon State University (1974).
- Notable Publications: Cities Ranked & Rated and Best Places to Raise Your Family.
- Data Approach: Relies on public domain data from government agencies like the U.S. Census Bureau and the FBI.
From Software Engineering to Demographic Analysis
Bert Sperling's journey into demographics began with a foundation in engineering and technology. In the early 1980s, he founded Dataccount, a company that developed model-specific software for the then-emerging laptop market. His technical expertise was such that he programmed the United States Tax Code into programmable calculators for estate planning professionals, a feat noted by InfoWorld magazine in 1984.
In 1984, Sperling transitioned toward his passion for location data by starting Fast Forward, Inc. He developed "Places USA," a pioneering interactive software program. This application allowed users to weight their own personal criteria—such as specific amenities or demographic features—to find their ideal home among the 300 largest Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in the U.S.
This innovation caught the attention of major media outlets. After being featured in USA Today, Sperling was commissioned by Money Magazine in 1987 to compile their "Best Cities" lists, a partnership that lasted nearly 20 years.
The Evolution of BestPlaces.net
The "Places USA" software eventually evolved into the website BestPlaces.net. This interactive platform serves as a free resource for individuals seeking to relocate, as well as a tool for academic reference and recreational learning. To maintain objectivity and third-party accountability, the site utilizes quarterly-updated statistics from a wide array of government sources.
| Organization | Type of Data Provided |
|---|---|
| U.S. Census Bureau | Population and Demographic Statistics |
| FBI | Crime and Safety Data |
| Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) | Public Health Metrics |
| Bureau of Labor Statistics | Employment and Economic Data |
| National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) | Climate and Environmental Data |
| U.S. Department of Health and Human Services | Healthcare Access and Quality |
Notable Works and Public Influence
Sperling has authored several comprehensive guides to American living. In 2004, he co-authored the 832-page Cities Ranked and Rated with Peter Sander, followed by a second edition in 2007. He also released Best Places to Raise Your Family in 2006.
His research has extended into specialized demographic studies, including rankings for the "Funnest Cities to Live," "Best Cities for Singles," "Best Cities to Retire," and "Best Cities for Women’s Health." These findings have not only appeared in The New York Times and The Today Show but have also permeated popular culture, appearing in clues on Jeopardy! and mentions on The Tonight Show.
The Simpsons Controversy
Sperling's influence even reached the animated world of The Simpsons. In the episode "They Saved Lisa’s Brain," the show referenced a list of the 300 most livable cities, placing East St. Louis, Illinois, in last place. This sparked a controversy, leading residents of East St. Louis to demand an apology from the show's writers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BestPlaces.net?
BestPlaces.net is an interactive website founded by Bert Sperling that provides free, data-driven statistics and comparisons of U.S. cities to help people relocate or conduct academic research.
How does Bert Sperling ensure his rankings are objective?
Sperling uses public domain data compiled by government organizations, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the FBI, to ensure third-party accountability and objectivity.
What are some of Bert Sperling's most notable books?
His most prominent works include Cities Ranked & Rated (and its second edition) and Best Places to Raise Your Family.
What was the "Places USA" program?
"Places USA" was an early interactive software application that allowed users to input their own lifestyle preferences and weights to identify the ideal metropolitan area for them to live in.
What is Bert Sperling's educational background?
Bert Sperling graduated from Oregon State University in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering.