Top 10 Cities to Live In Post-Grad

Attending college can be one of the most rewarding decisions a young person can make.

In my experience, Auburn University has given me some of the greatest memories of my life. Between game days, hanging out on Samford Lawn, and pulling all-nighters in the library with my friends, saying it has been exciting would be an understatement. Although I cherish the time I’ve had at Auburn, I know it does not last forever, and my next chapter could start anywhere.

As someone who is indecisive, choosing where to begin my first job can feel extremely daunting and nerve-wracking. Do I want to live in a big city or a small town? Near the mountains or beach? Does weather matter? Where is my industry of choice located? All these factors are something to consider when moving after graduation.

I researched the best locations for recent college graduates. One study, conducted by Wallethub, statistically graded 182 U.S. cities on the premise of professional opportunities and quality of life. Weighed at 70 percent, professional opportunities were measured on the availability of entry-level jobs, starting salary, growth rate, and other aspects. Weighed at 30 percent, quality of life was measured on commute time, housing affordability, rate of millennials, friendliness, and other aspects. Of the 182 cities graded, here are the top ten cities to live in after college.

10.  Colombia, South Carolina

Located in the Southeast region, Colombia has major industries in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, insurance information and technology, and green energy production.

9. Portland, Maine

Located in the Northeast, Portland has major industries in health care, social assistance, education services, and professional, scientific, and technological services.

8. Tampa, Florida

Located in the Southeast, Tampa has major industries in avionics, business and information services, financial services, and manufacturing.

7. Miami, Florida

Located In the Southeastern region of the United States, Miami has major industries in tourism, finance, international trade, media, and telecommunications.

6. Boise, Idaho

Located in the Pacific Northwest region, Boise has major industries in agriculture, technology, and tourism.

5. Seattle, Washington

Located in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle has major industries in cleantech, manufacturing, life sciences, global health, and information technology.

4. Austin, Texas

Located in the Southern region of the United States, Austin has major industries in automotive, tech, E-commerce, and medical.

3. Atlanta, Georgia

Located in the Southeast, Atlanta has major industries in healthcare, biomedical, manufacturing, media and communications, film and television.

2. Orlando, Florida

Located in the Southeast, Orlando has major industries in advanced manufacturing, biotech, aerospace, defense, and simulation.

1. Salt Lake City, Utah

Located in the Southwest region, Salt Lake City has major industries in educational services, health care, social assistance, and retail trade.

Other things to take into consideration would be whether your industry of choice is widely available, whether your lifestyle matches your anticipated salary, and whether public transportation is needed. Remember that your first career move does not mean the end. If your city of choice is not how you imagined, don’t lose hope. The opportunities are endless!

As a fan of taking fun online quizzes, one thing I enjoy is taking “What city matches your personality?” quizzes. For those who are interested in what city culture fits you, try my favorite quiz: What City Should You Live In?

Be Well, Auburn.

Find the Wallethub study here.