Arlington shines in the national spotlight once again thanks not only to its sports and entertainment venues but its job opportunities, affordable housing, low crime, quality schools and other amenities that make the American Dream City a great place to live.

In its latest edition, Money magazine has named Arlington as the 'Best Big City ' in the South.

'Tucked betweenDallas and Fort Worth, Arlington is known as the Entertainment Capital of Texas, and for good reason, ' the Money article stated. 'It 's home to four professional sports teams Dallas Cowboys football, Texas Rangers baseball, Dallas Wings basketball, and Dallas Charge softball theme parks, music venues, comedy clubs, and, not least, the International Bowling Hall of Fame. Still, there 's more to this city than fun and games. '

The article, published online Sept. 17, goes on to list Arlington 's numerous large employers, including General Motors and Texas Health Resources, as well the city 's proximity to high-paying job opportunities across the North Texas region.

Arlington, whose population now tops 381,000, is also 'a sweet spot for parents looking for affordable homes and top-ranked schools, ' the article states. This includes the standout public charter school Uplift Summit International Preparatory, named one of the top 20 most challenging high schools in the U.S. by the Washington Post.

The publication also points to exciting growth at the University of Texas at Arlington, which plans to break ground this fall on a $125 million Science and Engineering Innovation complex that will further bolster the campus ' reputation as a major health-science research institution.

Arlington 's other draws include its support of bike lanes as a transportation alternatives and its investment in the downtown area, where a new three-story library, public plaza and a mixed-use development will soon join the Levitt Pavilion and a growing number of shops, restaurants and residential properties.

'We 're thrilled that Money magazine has brought national attention to all the amenities and opportunities our great city has to offer, ' Williams said. 'From affordable homes and good-paying jobs to sought-after schools and plentiful parks, Arlington is indeed an ideal city to work, live, play and learn. '