Big cities like New York and San Francisco may be the first ones that come to mind for strong job markets and promising income growth, but new research suggests thinking smaller. A new report highlights the best U.S. cities for employment opportunities and the highest earnings and it turns out, mid-size metros dominate the list.
- Checkr, an HR tech company, analyzed data on the 100 largest cities nationwide to find the top places to work and thrive financially.
- They dug through data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Bureau of Economic Analysis to find cities with the best job opportunities and earning potential.
- Cities were rated on seven key metrics, ranging from income growth to unemployment rate to the percentage of households earning over $200-thousand.
- According to their research, Raleigh, North Carolina, tops the list.
- The city gets high scores for a strong tech and biotech presence, consistent growth population and proximity to top-tier universities, giving Raleigh a “robust mix of high-wage opportunities and affordable living.”
- Second on the list is Nashville, Tennessee, known for being an entertainment capital and its strong healthcare sectors, as well as a culture that appeals to young professionals.
- On the flip side, the worst city for jobs and earnings is Bakersfield, California, followed by Scranton, Pennsylvania.
The Top 10 U.S. Cities for Employment and Earnings Opportunities
- Raleigh, North Carolina
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Austin, Texas
- Salt Lake City, Utah
- Portland, Maine
- Denver, Colorado
- Omaha, Nebraska
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Indianapolis, Indiana
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