Medal-worthy hometowns of U.S. Olympic athletes

(MoneyWatch) With the Olympics less than a month away, we'll soon be watching the world's top athletes trying to run, bike, and swim their way to the gold.

If you're feeling inspired, and whether you're a serious competitor looking to up your game or a couch potato making a lifestyle change, the following cities are a great place to live -- and train -- like an Olympic athlete. According to ERA Real Estate, the weather, terrain and access to athletic activities make these markets truly medal-worthy.

Medal-worthy hometowns of U.S. Olympic athletes

Los Angeles, Calif.

L.A. is home to many athletes and celebs, including two-time gold medalist Misty May-Treanor. The beach volleyball pro and her partner Kerri Walsh took gold both in 2004 in Athens and 2008 in Beijing. May-Treanor grew up playing volleyball on Santa Monica Pier with her parents. Her father was a member of the 1968 men's national volleyball team, and her mother was a nationally-ranked tennis champ.

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It's no wonder this active family called Los Angeles home. The sunshine and beaches make it the perfect place for surfing, running and, of course, volleyball. If you're not the sporty type but love trendy athletic clothes, head to Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade. The pedestrian-only mall has tons of shops, from well-known retailers to local, one-of-a-kind stores. Plus, there's a variety of restaurants to enjoy when you're done shopping.

Medal-worthy hometowns of U.S. Olympic athletes

Colorado Springs, Colo.

Colorado Springs is the current home of 19-year-old U.S. Olympic gymnast John Orozco. It's a long way from his hometown in New York City, but it's easy to see why the high- and parallel-bar specialist would choose to crash in Colorado Springs -- the U.S. Olympic Training Center is located there.

The city sits at the front range of the Rocky Mountains and is well known for Pike's Peak, North America's most visited mountain. Athletes of all disciplines and levels can enjoy great running, hiking, and biking trails including Barr Trail, one of the most popular trails with locals. Once you've worked up an appetite, head to The Airplane Restaurant which features a Boeing KC-97 tanker that can seat 42 "passengers."

Medal-worthy hometowns of U.S. Olympic athletes

Boulder, Colo.

This scenic Colorado city, the second in the state on this list, is also a haven for athletes of all disciplines. Offering great weather for outdoor activities of all kinds, its location in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains makes it a great place for trail runners and mountain bikers to train. Among other athletes who call Boulder home is Shalane Flanagan, winner of the 2010 New York City marathon and bronze medalist in the 2008 Olympic Women's 10K in Beijing.

In addition to its great hiking and biking trails, Boulder is home to some great restaurants and independent breweries. It's a college town (University of Colorado is right near downtown Boulder), so there are also plenty of bars and live music events. Though the average home price is high, there are deals to be had, with some homes available for under $250,000.

Medal-worthy hometowns of U.S. Olympic athletes

Tarrytown, N.Y.

This quaint village in the town of Greenburgh, N.Y., is a runner's paradise. In fact, 1976 decathlon gold-medalist and "Keeping Up With the Kardashians' "star dad Bruce Jenner once called this place home. The charming area has a great small-town feel, fantastic antique shopping, and terrain perfect for runners and aspiring Olympians.

If you're a runner, the Tappan Zee bridge has great views and a slight incline, both perfect for training. If running isn't your thing but you still enjoy being outdoors, check out Rockefeller State Park. There are hiking and nature trails, great fishing spots, and scenic overlooks that make beautiful picnicking spots.

Medal-worthy hometowns of U.S. Olympic athletes

Sugar Land, Texas

This Texas town has held the "Fittest City in Texas" title since 2007 and has been ranked the third-best city to live in the U.S. by Money Magazine. Among Sugar Land's residents -- three-time taekwondo medalist and 2012 U.S. Olympic team member Steven Lopez.

This affluent, burgeoning town has a strong local economy, while Sugar Land's temperate winters make it a top pick for athletes who love to train outdoors all year. Many of the city's subdivisions have golf courses and country clubs, and Sugar Land also hosts various festivals throughout the year, usually held in its distinctive central square.