But those aren’t the only options. Why not settle in a city that strikes the perfect balance: the promise of an active social life, without hitting the sky-high COL of, say, New York or San Francisco. Here are the best cities for lowering your cost of living without sacrificing lifestyle. People from the likes of New York and Los Angeles will not be disappointed with Nashville’s nightlife and the bar scenes; the town is home to many creative transplants from far-flung places as well, making dating and finding new friends an exciting possibility....

But some home organization projects end up being more stress-inducing than calming. (Hint—that major closet overhaul.) To keep your tidying-up activities easy and productive, we’ve identified some tasks that are best to tackle when you’re stressed, along with a couple to save for a calmer time. Best Things to Organize When Stressed Kitchen Utensil Drawer When stressed, start by organizing a small area, like a drawer. It shouldn’t take too long, so it’s an easy way to feel a sense of accomplishment....

The best microwaves should not only be simple to use and clean, but they’ll have the right assortment of features to make heating quick and easy. Some models come with helpful features like smart sensors, automatic cook presets, or possibly even air frying and baking capabilities. However, if you just want that automatic popcorn setting for movie night, there are plenty of effective models without all the bells and whistles, too....

To come up with this list of the best window air conditioners, we thoroughly researched various models and evaluated them on cooling power, energy efficiency, noise level, and extra features. For expert tips and recommendations, we consulted Gary McCoy, store manager at Lowe’s, and Matthew Brown, merchant of ACs and fans, air quality, and floorcare at The Home Depot. “Window AC units are an easy-to-install, affordable option to cool a single room by essentially reducing the temperature and humidity of a room’s air and then recirculating the cool air with a fan,” says McCoy....

We researched dozens of different home espresso machines, evaluating their size, price, efficacy, and reliability. We also asked Jiyoon Han, co-owner of Bean & Bean Coffee and a Coffee Quality Institute-certified Q grader (basically, a sommelier for coffee), for her advice on how to take care of an espresso machine. Charlie Eisenstat, head roaster at Edda Coffee, also weighed in on how espresso machines work and what to look for when you’re shopping....

To find the best steam mops, we tested 27 popular models in our Lab and evaluated each on its ease of use, effectiveness, portability, ease of cleaning, maneuverability, and value. We also considered factors such as cord length, weight, and steam output. For expert insight, we tapped Gary McCoy, Lowe’s store manager serving the Charlotte, North Carolina market. McCoy says steam mops can both clean and sanitize floors using water alone: “These handy appliances don’t rely on typical cleaning solutions to kill germs, but instead, use water to steam-sanitize your floors and sealed surfaces,” says McCoy....

To come up with the best tool kits, we considered type, use, and experience level, selecting options for novices as well as experienced DIYers. Our top pick is the Workpro 100-Piece Home Tool Kit, which includes all the best basic tools, a water-resistant case, and extras including zip ties, replacement utility knife blades, nine sockets, and 20 screw bits to choose from. Read on to learn more about our top picks and how to choose the right tool set for you....

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“Look for something easy to use,” said Marilyn Haugen, a bestselling cookbook author and food blogger at MavenCookery.com. “I always like a ‘plug and play’ style blender—one that’s super easy to clean without a lot of parts.” No matter what type of home chef you are, this list has plenty of options to help make creamy dips, healthy green smoothies, and more. To come up with this list of the best blenders, we considered factors like power (total wattage), range of speed, and pitcher capacity....

For expert advice on how to shop for down pillows, we consulted Dr. Alex Dimitriu of Menlo Park Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine, as well as Amy Hoban, Chief Creative Officer of Parachute. Our top pick is the Parachute Down Pillow for its great balance of fluff and support, which allows for the expected cloud-like softness of a down pillow without causing head or neck tension. Keep scrolling for more down pillow recommendations backed by our testing....

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We researched a variety of electric kettles, considering factors like material, capacity, and bonus features. We also spoke with Ashley Lim, a Certified Tea Sommelier and Founder and CEO of Mansa Tea, who says that “unlike a traditional tea kettle, an electric kettle gives you the convenience of getting the right temperature with a press of a button.” Our top pick is the Cuisinart PerfecTemp Cordless Electric Kettle for its large 1....

To determine the best foot massagers on the market, we researched dozens of different options while comparing settings, sizes, effectiveness, and price point. We also spoke with Marcela Correa, Owner of Medi Pedi NYC, for her recommendations on the best foot massagers and advice on choosing one right for you. “Feet are the foundation of your body,” Correa says. “Keeping a pair of healthy feet is key for a pain-free independent life....

“An indoor garden is more than a potted plant near a window,” says Lindsay Springer, head of plants and nutrition at Gardyn. “It’s the intentional cultivation of plants for eating and enjoyment in the comfort of your own home.” The best indoor gardens create a space that makes it easier to keep your plants healthy and thriving in all seasons by controlling the climate, providing essential nutrients, and more. Even if you don’t have the ideal outdoor space for a garden to thrive, these dedicated indoor spaces allow you all the benefits of having a garden outdoors without the variability in weather or conditions....

To find the best patio heaters on the market, we tested 18 propane models and 27 electric models in our Lab while considering factors such as setup, heating performance, ease of use, safety, and value. For expert tips, we consulted Brianne Deerwester, communications coordinator for the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), and Jennifer Schallmoser, media relations specialist for the National Safety Council (NSC). “As temperatures begin to drop in communities across the country, portable outdoor appliances are increasingly being used to heat outdoor areas, particularly those where it is too cool to comfortably sit or stand,” says Schallmoser....

Planting in raised garden beds minimizes the number of weeds and critters that creep into your garden, and it’s “ergonomically advantageous,” says gardener Lisa Catalano of Our Garden Gig. “They allow you to work in your garden with less bending down, eliminating back and knee joint pain while you seed, water, weed, fertilize, and harvest. The higher the bed, the more you will benefit from less stress on your body....

To buy: $1,108, amazon.com The simple and elegant sofa arrived just a few days after I ordered it, and it came with free delivery to my room of choice. I’ve had it for several months now, and I can’t stop raving about its affordable price point and high-end look. I also love its deep and plush seat cushions that make movie nights and entertaining friends even more comfortable. I’ve been shopping for my new kitchen quite a bit, too....

Best Holiday Wreath Deals Best Holiday Doormat Deals While you can’t turn your house into a full-on gingerbread house, you can buy this fun doormat with a gingerbread design for 25% off. If that’s not your style, this skiing dogs doormat that’s only $55 will be a fun crowd pleaser. There are also a variety of “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Holidays” doormats to shop, too. Best Holiday Yard Decor Deals To add some holiday sparkle to your home, be sure to check out these LED light-up spheres, snowflakes, and stars that can be hung from trees or your porch, starting at just $31....

There are a few Christmas party themes that always come to mind this time of year. Ugly Sweater, cookie exchange, white elephant gift exchange, Elf, and of course The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. I’m a big Dr. Seuss fan so I absolutely love all the fun colors and whimsical Who-things down in Who-Ville so it was a no brainer to make some fun Grinch brownies for this year’s Christmas treat plate!...

These sales usually include accessories, as well, so keep an eye out for discounts on add-ons like mattress pads and toppers. (If you’re not ready to buy a whole new mattress, a great mattress topper can help extend the life of your current mattress.) “You can definitely negotiate at these brick-and mortar stores,” she says, on everything from pricing to financing for your new mattress. Of course, you’ll have to qualify for any financing programs the way you might for a car loan....