These 10 US cities offer the best jobs and pay
spoiler: it's not NY or LA
Hey, it's Friday, which means two things:
You're mentally halfway into the weekend
We've got a fun insight to help you dream about where your next big career move could take you
This one’s for the job hunters, city hoppers, and anyone who's ever wondered: “What if I just moved somewhere cheaper and started fresh?”
Let’s explore 10 U.S. cities that are quietly winning the job and paycheck game.
So, which are the best cities?
If you’re hunting for better job opportunities and higher income potential, you might want to think beyond the usual suspects like New York or San Francisco.
A new report by Checkr suggests that mid-sized cities like Raleigh, Nashville, and Omaha are now leading the way.
Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the US Census Bureau, and the Bureau of Economic Analysis, Checkr ranked the 100 largest U.S. cities based on two things:
Employment opportunity (unemployment rate, labor force growth, labor force size, and % of jobs open)
Earning potential (real per capita income, 10-year income growth, and % of households earning over $200,000)
Sam Radbil, Checkr’s research and content strategist, says the findings challenge the idea that only big cities dominate the job market.
“The geography of opportunity is shifting,” he explains. “If you’re earning a good wage in a mid-sized city like Madison or Des Moines or Raleigh, your money might go further, even if you’re earning less.”
Let’s take a look at the top 10 U.S. cities where jobs are plentiful, and paychecks have promise:
1. Heard of Raleigh? It’s quietly booming
Raleigh, NC, tops the list. It’s part of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, which includes major universities like Duke and UNC Chapel Hill.
What’s hot: Health care, education, and research
Why it matters: The Triangle makes it a magnet for innovation and job creation.
2. Nashville’s not just about country music
Nashville, TN, has seen massive job growth recently.
What’s hot: Health care, education, logistics
Why it matters: It’s gaining attention not just for culture but also for steady employment and income growth.
3. Austin is booming, but is it too pricey?
Austin, TX is a tech favorite and offers plenty of high-paying roles.
What’s hot: Tech, startups, innovation hubs
Why it matters: Salaries are strong, but so is the cost of living, which might cancel out the financial advantage.
4. Salt Lake City is on the rise
Salt Lake City, UT is growing in both popularity and job availability.
What’s hot: Tech and finance
Why it matters: It’s becoming a hub for high-growth industries, with livability still intact.
5. Portland, ME is winning with affordability
Portland, Maine, is especially attractive to remote workers.
What’s hot: Low rent, good quality of life
Why it matters: It balances work opportunity with affordability which is rare these days.
6. Denver’s still got space to grow
Denver, CO, has a strong job market and decent wage growth.
What’s hot: Steady income, expanding job sectors
Why it matters: Even with rising housing costs, it remains livable for many.
7. Omaha might just surprise you
Omaha, NE, is attracting new businesses and talent.
What’s hot: Growing job market, low cost of living
Why it matters: It offers stability without the financial pressure of bigger cities.
8. Charlotte’s growing fast, and smart
Charlotte, NC’s labor force has grown by over 10% in five years.
What’s hot: Finance and banking
Why it matters: It’s become a hub for major companies, with job options to match.
9. Charleston’s paychecks are getting bigger
Charleston, SC, has a rising number of people earning over $200,000.
What’s hot: Finance, tech, health care
Why it matters: The city blends opportunity with a rising standard of living.
10. Indianapolis: Slow and steady wins
Indianapolis, IN, doesn’t chase the limelight but delivers results.
What’s hot: Stable jobs, affordable living
Why it matters: The Midwest’s steady economy offers both business potential and balanced lifestyles.
That’s it for today. If you found this edition interesting and entertaining, please drop a like and follow us for more!
See ya👋
