In a newly compiled "Queer Index," Los Angeles topped the list as the U.S. city friendliest to lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender people.

The Queer Index is a comprehensive, data-driven guide developed by online news outlet, Vocativ. To rank the 35 most LGBT-friendly cities in the U.S., analysts began by choosing the 100 most populous metropolitan areas, according to 2013 U.S. census data. Then, information was drawn from 32 large data sets, such as Facebook, Craigslist, and city and state records.

Sixteen different metrics measured the livability, ranging from number of same-sex couples, amount of hate crimes, marriage equality, cultural events, and dating and hook up opportunities. Followed in order behind Los Angeles, ranked New York, San Francisco, and Des Moines. Los Angeles ranked high among most categories, but especially for accessible marriage and a straightforward adoption process.

Des Moines, which ranked number 4, “the first major draw-dropper,” has a notable positive attitude toward adoption, marriage equality, and high-profile out politicians.

“Let’s face it: A great many places across America are still not that welcoming of the LGBT community. But there are beacons of hope — as well as cities quietly changing — and hence, the Queer Index was born,” Vocativ stated.

Facts gathered from the Queer Index:

  • “On average, the ratio of self-identified gay men to lesbians on Facebook is 1.3 to 1 in the top 100 most populous cities in the U.S.”
  • “According to Facebook, NYC has the largest lesbian population (74,000). Los Angeles is second (44,000) and Chicago third (22,000).”
  • “Washington, D.C., has the most anti-LGBT groups (3), while NYC has the most hate groups in general (18).”
  • “For the top 100 cities in the U.S. by population, on average, there are 10 w4w posts on Craigslist each day, compared with 183 m4m posts.”
  • “Of the 50 states, California has the highest number of same-sex couples; Nebraska has the lowest.”

For a complete list and the data behind the rankings, take a look at The Vocativ Queer Index.