Every year, thousands upon thousands of college students graduate and hope to start their freshman year of life with a bang. As young adults looking to start their professional careers, finding a job can sometimes be difficult. Some graduates look for a job in or close to the cities where they are already located and others hit the ground running in hopes of finding a job in their dream city.
Well, not everyone wants to stay where they are or knows exactly where they want to go. Picking up a map and just choosing a location isn’t going to work either. You’ve got to do your research. That is where I come in. I’ve scoured the internet and put together a list – a very unofficial list – of 5 cities that’s great for young professionals. In no particular order, let’s get started.
1. Austin, Texas
If you’re a weirdo like me, then Austin may be a great choice for you. Keep Austin Weird is the city’s slogan, and it was originally created in order to promote small businesses in Austin. Austin was also listed as our top city to start a small business! The unemployment rate is also under 4%, and there is no state income tax. So, jobs and money shouldn’t be a concern if you’re interested in relocating to Austin. Don’t be worried about getting out there and meeting new people either! Austin is a lively city with plenty to do ranging from nightlife, live music festivals, outdoorsy stuff, and great food and coffee (Hello breakfast burritos!). So, if you’re a creative, young professional and don’t mind getting a little weird, then I believe Austin is calling your name!
2. Denver, Colorado
Dubbed the Mile High City, Denver has been a top relocation choice for young adults, specifically Millennials. Not only is it number 2 on our aforementioned list for top cities to start a small business, over 30% of the city’s populations is between the age of 18-34 and the unemployment rate is a very teeny weeny 2.2%. As far as things to do,you can participate in Denver’s active nightlife, extensive food and beer scene, and outdoor activities. Skiing anyone? Make your way to Denver if you like city living and love the mountains.
3. Atlanta, Georgia
Hotlanta. A-Town. The Big Peach. The Empire City of the South. Whatever you want to call it, Atlanta is another place to be for young professionals. Or, maybe I’m biased? *shrugs* Not only is Atlanta another great place to start a small business, it’s a great city to get your feet wet and kick off your career. The job market is growing and the cost of living is low compared to many other comparable cities. You’ll also get a good mix of urban and suburban here. And, if you’re look for things to do, check out the World of Coke, the Aquarium, Olympic Park, and the nightlife, food, and shopping scenes. If you’re looking for a good place to start out, come and join me and my fellow ATLiens (not an official name, but you gotta love OutKast) here in Atlanta.
*Side Note: We’ll know if you’re not from here if you pronounce the t’s in Atlanta lol.
4. San Francisco, California
First, let me say that while San Francisco’s rent is comparable to that of NYC, don’t let that scare you off. San Francisco’s unemployment rate is just a little under 3%, and its workers are usually well compensated. Around 23% of the residents there are between 25 and 34. Boasting a hip nightlife, great food scene, and a location near Silicon Valley, countless Millennials have made their way here. If you’re a young professional looking to jump into anything to do with tech or startups then you should definitely give thought into living in San Francisco.
5. Minneapolis, Minnesota
And last but certainly not least, the City of Lakes. Minneapolis not only is affordable but only has an unemployment rate of exactly 3%, so finding a job shouldn’t be too much of a problem. On average about 23% of a worker’s salary goes toward housing which is great for professionals who are working in entry level positions. With all of that extra cash left over, you can make your way over to the Mall of America or choose to explore cultural landmarks such as the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and Walker Art Center. If you love art and the outdoors, Minneapolis could be the right fit for you.
Overall, choosing somewhere to relocate to can be a pain, especially when you’re just getting started in your profession or don’t know much about what other places have to offer. I just hope this list helps you out a little or gave you a few cities to think about.