If there was one thing that was clear in 2016, it is that many new cities saw increases in job growth. Additionally, many of the same cities as previous years also saw consistent and steady expansion. For millennials and non-millennials alike, one challenge has been finding the right place to explore employment and job growth opportunities in their careers.
In order to give you an upper-hand, we’ve ranked the 10 top cities for employment and job growth for 2017. We based this off of Unemployment Rate, Job Growth, Cost of Living, and Best Industries for each city. In our opinion, each of these have their own advantages, and it is up to you to decide which will work best for your needs.
10. Portland, OR
With a population of about 2.4 million people, Portland is best known for a young and progressive crowd. Renown for their environmental friendliness and green living, Portland is a bustling hub for newcomers into the job market.
- Unemployment Rate: 4.6%
- Job Growth: 3.3%
- Cost of Living: 7.2% Above National Avg.
- Top Industries: Real Estate & Housing, Construction, Technology
9. Charlotte, NC
Known for its expansive and growing financial industry, Charlotte has recently become 2nd largest banking center in the United States. With a population of about 2.4 million, the city is ideal for an array of individuals looking for employment and job growth potential.
- Unemployment Rate: 4.9%
- Job Growth: 3.7%
- Cost of Living: 1.3% Under National Avg.
- Top Industries: Financial Services, Energy, Automotive & Motorsports, Technology
8. Denver, CO
Denver has seen massive employment and job growth trends in recent years. Ideally located in a central position, it has become a popular destination as a distribution hub, and well-known for its outdoor-oriented lifestyles.
- Unemployment Rate: 3%
- Job Growth: 3.7%
- Cost of Living: 7.8% Above National Avg.
- Top Industries: Aerospace, Technology, Telecommunication, Energy
7. Irvine, CA
Perhaps most well-known for its multiple titles among “America’s Safest Cities”, Irvine has seen a huge growth in the local economy. From a massive increase in construction and infrastructure, to increased population flow, Irvine’s appeal for employment and job growth opportunities has expanded significantly.
- Unemployment Rate: 3.3%
- Job Growth: 2.9%
- Cost of Living: 10% Above National Avg.
- Top Industries: Business & Finance, Legal, Production, Construction
6. Austin, TX
Holding a population of about 2 million people, Austin boasts a heavy concentration of very highly-educated millennials. With many companies moving their operations into the city, and recently adopting the nickname of “Silicon Hills”, Austin has massive employment growth and opportunity to provide.
- Unemployment Rate: 3.1%
- Job Growth: 4.6%
- Cost of Living: 11.1% Above National Avg.
- Top Industries: Technology, Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology, Medical
5. Dallas, TX
Another Texas city, the industrial and financial sectors in Dallas have been booming. In addition, it houses one of the busiest international airports in Dallas/Fort Worth Airport, making the city a hub and port for many companies conducting business.
- Unemployment Rate: 3.6%
- Job Growth: 4.6%
- Cost of Living: 8.4% Above National Avg.
- Top Industries: Technology, Defense, Financial Services
4. Nashville, TN
Although a smaller population than others on the list, with about 1.8 million people, Nashville is on the brink of more growth. Most renown for being the center of the music industry in the US, Nashville is additionally expanding into an array of other employment sectors.
- Unemployment Rate: 3.6%
- Job Growth: 3.8%
- Cost of Living: 2% Above National Avg.
- Top Industries: Healthcare, Tourism, Education
3. Orlando, FL
Known for being the #1 top visited tourist destination in the country, Orlando’s employment opportunities are increasing with their tourism. The abundance of attractions have not only boosted the local economy, but consequently provided employment and job growth for those looking to start off on a strong foot.
- Unemployment Rate: 4.3%
- Job Growth: 4.2%
- Cost of Living: 1.2% Above National Avg.
- Top Industries: Defense, Aerospace, Technology, Tourism
2. San Jose, CA
Another crucial city to look it as that of San Jose. With a population of roughly 2 million people, and growing, San Jose has a strong concentration of tech and engineering opportunities for employment. Due to a strong local economy, many companies and startups have flocked to the area making it ideal for those starting off in computer science related fields.
- Unemployment Rate: 3.6%
- Job Growth: 4.1%
- Cost of Living: 60% Above National Avg.
- Top Industries: Education, Industrial, Technology
1. San Francisco, CA
Our top choice for best job growth & employment cities is none other than San Francisco. Aside from the well-known technology sector that has shown massive growth, it furthermore is seen as a major international tourist destination.
- Unemployment Rate: 3.0%
- Job Growth: 4.7%
- Cost of Living: 57.7% Above National Avg.
- Top Industries: Technology, Financial Services, Tourism