Florence was voted No. 4 out of 10 cities in a “10 Best Places in Alabama” list in a trending article published on Jan. 21 by Real Estate blog Movoto.

The site based the list off of amenities, quality of life, total crimes, tax rates, unemployment, commute time and weather, putting Auburn, Madison and Pelham ahead of Florence.

Monica Raquel, a freshman nursing major, moved five hours from her family in Arkansas to attend college at UNA and could not imagine calling another place her home.

“I’ve lived in two countries and over 20 cities before moving to Florence, and it is, by far , my favorite place,” Raquel said. “I love the music scene here and the culture that revolves around it.”

Over the years, Northwest Alabama has become known for its unique musical sound, especially through the release of the 2013 documentary “Muscle Shoals.”

Several up-and-coming artists have roots that can be traced back to the Tennessee River. Local artists such as Grace & Tony, firekid and the Local Saints are a few bands contributing to the history of Florence.

Although the city of Florence is steadily growing with the influences of incoming cultures and the new additions of businesses downtown, some residents, like senior Savannah Comer, think the progression is not occurring quickly enough to keep up with the changing needs and wants of the community.

Comer said Florence’s lack of modernization overpowers the charming, small-community vibe present and is a downfall of living in the area.

“I feel like it’s a good step that they’re redesigning the mall, but that they fall short because they’re not adding any new stores to go with the new look,” Comer said. “I just feel like any modernization that is happening is a result of tons and tons of pushing from the community. The town needs to be more proactive.”

Comer thinks adding bike lanes and other options for shopping aside from expensive boutiques will add to the overall appeal of the city in the future.

Student Government Association senator Sarah Keeter said she has only taken a greater liking to the city throughout her time at UNA.

“Florence and the Shoals in general is so rich in history, heritage and tradition,” Keeter said. “Being here, you feel a connection with the people of the modern world and those that came before us. It allows the citizens of this area to relish in the nostalgia.”

Trevor Beasley, a sophomore and Florence native, has had the opportunity to observe the evolution of Florence over time. Those who have recently passed through or settled down in Florence may not realize that many of the characteristics of the city that come to mind have only become applicable to the area in the past 10 years, he said.

“I remember grass lots where buildings now stand,” Beasley said. “It’s great that Florence is growing. I feel like it’s headed in a more positive direction than it ever has been in my lifetime. I take pride in the fact that so many other people love it here. It’s a great place to grow up. I like getting away from time to time but this city always calls me home.”