Judges said it was a “supremely practical choice for families”, thanks to its convenient central location, rapidly improving town centre and excellent schools.
But Magherafelt residents don't need a team of judges to tell them what they’ve known for years.
Here are 17 things only Magherafelt people know - or should know - about the town: anecdotes and memories that make up a shared community.
13. The last train from town
The last train pulled out of Magherafelt railway station in the 1950s. Many people in the town would like to see the trains return. Maybe, one day, they will. Today the building, designed by famous architect Charles Lanyon, is occupied by Roads Service. Photo: Google
14. Crumbling old church
The old church at the bottom of Broad Street is where Gael and Planter are buried. Its crumbling remains contain Captain Ralph Whistler from England, who was the first to rent the Salters' Estate from the London Company at the time of the Ulster Plantation. There was a remembrance plaque for him in the old church, which was later transferred to St Swithin's Church when it opened. He was related to the famous American painter, James Abbott McNeill Whistler. Photo: Google
15. Four o'clock madness
Four o'clock madness was the phrase Magherafelt people used to describe the traffic congestion that once existed on Broad Street when the bus station was located there. Children from all the town's schools converged on the street each week day at 4pm to get a lift home. It resulted in traffic tailbacks on the main roads leading into the town. Photo: Google
16. Toner's and the Top 40
We bought our vinyl records/cds/cassette tapes at Toner's shop at the bottom of Broad Street, and later at Top 40 at The Diamond. Many will remember queuing or camping out all night for concert tickets at Top 40. Photo: Contributed