Kiplinger has named Burlington eighth on its list of the 10 Best Cities for the Next Decade, noting that creativity and entrepreneurship define the city, which is a haven for writers, artists and white-collar workers alike. It also notes that the city is a role model for saving the planet.

“It’s always gratifying to have the efforts of residents, local businesses and organizations, and city government recognized nationally,” Mayor Bob Kiss said. “Burlington has distinguished itself with its focus on green economic development and encouragement of a diverse and creative economy. I appreciate Kiplinger’s prestigious designation of Burlington as a city of the present as well as the future.”

Other cities on the list include: Austin, Texas; Seattle, Wash.; Washington, D.C.; Boulder, Colo.; Salt Lake City, Utah; Rochester, Minn.; Des Moines, Iowa; West Hartford, Conn.; and Topeka, Kan.

“It’s no coincidence that economic vitality and livability go hand in hand,” Kiplinger Senior Editor Robert Frick said. “Creativity in music, arts and culture, plus neighborhoods and recreational facilities that rank high for ‘coolness,’ attract like-minded professionals who go on to cultivate a region’s business scene. All of these factors make our 2010 Best Cities more than just great places to live. They’re also great places to start a business or find a job.”

This year Kiplinger focused on cities that specialize in innovative thinking and teamed up with Kevin Stolarick, research director at the Martin Prosperity Institute, to determine the winners.

“New ideas generate new businesses,” Stolarick said. “In the places where innovation works, it really works. People in fields such as science, engineering, architecture, and education are catalysts of vitality and livability in a city.”

To determine the winners, Kiplinger considered several economic factors to pinpoint cities with current and future growth potential in high-quality jobs and income. Such things as affordability, public transit, and the number of “creative class” workers also were taken into account.

In addition, representatives from Kiplinger visited each city to interview residents and business and community leaders.